photo: Soo Young Yang, CEO of Techtaka

To celebrate the launch of Tech Seoul, we started interviewing Korean startup CEOs. Today, for the 13th installment, we're talking to Soo Young Yang, CEO of Techtaka. 

Hello, Mr. Soo Young Yang, thank you for your time.  I think this interview with Soo Young Yang of Techtaka, who is building Argo, an AI-integrated logistics platform to digitize and optimize the supply chain for e-commerce sellers, will be very interesting and informative for Tech Seoul readers.

Q. Please introduce your company

Techtaka is building an AI-integrated logistics platform called Argo to digitalize and optimize suppy chain for e-commerce sellers.

Q. What projects did you work on in 2024?

2024 was a pivotal year for our company as we focused on enhancing Fulfillment efficiency and improving the Seller experience.

For Fulfillment efficiency:

1.We developed and implemented the FC Worker Productivity Dashboard, allowing real-time tracking of worker productivity and providing data-driven labor allocation recommendations for FC Managers.

2.The introduction of a Check-In/Check-Out feature enabled accurate tracking of worker functions, improving the measurement of functional productivity.

3.We automated the Prep Service process, shifting from a manual request system to a fully integrated one, giving both sellers and FC Managers better visibility over prep requests.

4.We successfully internationalized the Warehouse Management System (WMS), making it scalable for global operations, which is a key step toward expanding into the U.S. market.

5.By incorporating Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), we reduced pick cycle times and labor costs, significantly boosting Fulfillment Center efficiency.

For Seller Experience:

1.We automated the settlement process, moving from a manual system to a fully automated one. This allows sellers real-time visibility into their incurred costs throughout the month.

2.To scale our ecommerce integrations, we partnered with Selling Tool systems, enabling integration with over 100 ecommerce platforms.

3.We launched a Supplement Item Promotion feature, empowering sellers to promote additional products based on order price or quantity.

4.The Issue Management System significantly streamlined communication between sellers and Fulfillment Centers, enabling faster and more efficient processing of damaged or returned items, and allowing sellers to give specific instructions (like liquidation) without manual intervention.

5.We introduced Expedited Inbound and Outbound Services, giving sellers the option to expedite product handling at an additional cost.

Q. What's the story befhind your company?

Argo aims to create a borderless commerce era by providing a global logistics network for e-commerce sellers around the world.

Q. How do you set project goals?

Argo is a data-driven organization dedicated to leveraging key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify areas for improvement. We conduct thorough analyses to understand underlying issues and develop targeted strategies for enhancement.

Q. What does the meaning of success for you and your company?

For me and my company, success is defined by several key factors. Firstly, it means creating significant value for our clients by delivering efficient, reliable, and innovative logistics solutions that enhance their business operations. When our clients succeed, we succeed. Secondly, success involves building a strong and motivated team. We believe that a passionate team drives our growth and enables us to adapt to the ever-changing logistics landscape. Finally, success also means achieving sustainable growth. We aim to expand our market presence while maintaining operational excellence and financial stability.

Q. What can you actually do for Korean Startups?

Argo empowers Korean e-commerce startups to offer same-day and next-day delivery services to their customers. Additionally, our global logistics network facilitates international expansion, enabling Korean startups to reach new markets with ease.

Q. What companies are competitors and why are they doing well?

CJ, Hanjin, Fassto, Poomgo

Q. If there have been any issues you've encountered lately, please let us know how you overcame them.

Recently, we faced significant challenges with fluctuating demand, largely stemming from marketing campaigns being executed without our prior knowledge. This led to unexpected spikes in orders up to 10 times the normal demand, resulting in missed delivery and impacting customer satisfaction. To tackle this issue, we introduced a new functionality in our platform that allows users to notify us of their marketing campaigns in advance. This has greatly improved our ability to prepare for fluctuations in demand. In addition, we implemented a monitoring tool that tracks marketing campaigns that we weren't notified about. This tool alerts us to changes in pricing, inventory levels, and other relevant events, allowing us to respond quickly and effectively. We also streamlined our operations by removing several scanning points and automating processes within our warehouse management system. These enhancements have significantly boosted our operational efficiency and reduced order fulfillment times. Together, these initiatives not only helped us manage demand fluctuations more effectively but also strengthened our overall efficiency, ensuring we consistently meet our customers’ expectations while positioning us for sustainable growth.

Q. Where do you see your company in three years?

In three years, I envision our company as a leading player in the logistics sector in Korea, renowned for our innovative solutions and exceptional customer service. We aim to significantly expand our market share by leveraging advanced technologies, such as AI and data analytics, to optimize our operations and enhance logistics efficiency. Our goal is to build a comprehensive logistics ecosystem that not only supports local e-commerce businesses but also enables them to compete on a global scale. We plan to expand our global logistics network, establishing strategic partnerships that will facilitate seamless cross-border trade for our clients. Additionally, we are committed to sustainability and aim to implement eco-friendly practices across our operations, contributing positively to both the economy and the environment. Overall, I see our company at the forefront of transforming logistics, driving innovation, and setting new industry standards.

Q. How does your company develop talent?

At our company, developing talent is a core priority, guided by our leadership principle “hire and develop the best”. We focus on creating a culture of continuous learning and growth through several key initiatives:

1. Structured Onboarding: We provide comprehensive onboarding programs that immerse new hires in our company culture and operations, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to succeed from day one.

2. Mentorship Programs: Each employee is paired with a mentor who offers guidance, shares industry insights, and helps them navigate their career paths within the company.

3.Performance Feedback: Regular performance reviews and feedback sessions help employees identify areas for improvement and set personal and professional goals.

4. Career Advancement Opportunities: We encourage internal mobility and provide clear pathways for career advancement. Employees are supported in pursuing new roles and responsibilities that align with their career aspirations.

I5. nnovation and Involvement: We foster an environment where employees can contribute ideas and participate in projects beyond their usual responsibilities. This includes regular hackathons, where employees are encouraged to work on projects they are passionate about. These events not only stimulate creativity but also allow team members to collaborate across departments and develop new skills.

Q. In one word, describe yourself?

Resilient

Q. Where do you see yourself in five years?

In five years, I envision our company as a leader in the logistics tech sector, known for pioneering solutions that redefine industry standards. I see us scaling globally, significantly expanding our market presence, and continuing to build an innovative team that drives growth and excellence.

Q. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Strengths: I have a strong knack for strategic thinking and navigating complex challenges. My ability to stay focused on our long-term vision while adapting to changing circumstances has been key in our growth. Additionally, I’m skilled in fostering a collaborative culture that fuels creativity and motivates our team.

Weaknesses: I tend to be highly involved in multiple aspects of the business, which sometimes impacts my ability to delegate effectively. I’m working on enhancing this by empowering my leadership team and optimizing our workflows to ensure we all contribute to our collective success.

Q. If you ask people who know you well what three adjectives best describe you, what would they say?

Driven, meticulous, and strategic.

Q. How do you usually spend your free time?

I like to stay engaged with industry trends and emerging technologies, often exploring how they can be applied to our business. Outside of work, I enjoy sports such as golf, ski, soccer, and more, which helps me unwind and maintain a healthy work-life balance. I also make it a point to connect with other entrepreneurs and thought leaders to exchange ideas and insights.

Q. If there's anything you like, tell me about three things.

Innovation: I’m passionate about discovering and leveraging new technologies to drive transformative changes in logistics and beyond.

Growth: I’m committed to both personal and professional growth, whether through continuous learning or scaling our business to new heights.

Team Building: I thrive on creating and nurturing a dynamic team environment where everyone is empowered to contribute and grow, believing that a strong, cohesive team is the backbone of our success.

Q. Thank you for your time today. We wish ARGO's endless development. Lastly, please say hello to the readers of Tech Seoul.

Thank you so much for the opportunity to share our journey. Hello to all the readers of Tech Seoul—your support and interest in innovation drive us forward every day.