Someone You Should Know: Sung-Ik Park

Posted on July 18, 2024 in ATSC News

Dr. Sung-Ik Park of Korea’s Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) was the 2024 Mark Richer Industry Leadership Medal honoree. Named for our legendary former ATSC president, Mark Richer, who led the organization for two decades spanning both ATSC 1.0 and ATSC 3.0, this Medal recognizes an individual or team that demonstrates exemplary leadership in advancing the mission of ATSC and epitomizes the vision, tenacity, and leadership qualities that were the hallmark of his leadership.

While Dr. Park is working tirelessly to support the ATSC 3.0 Physical Layer proposal in Brazil, it’s important to recognize that his contributions to ATSC span many years and many projects, including his influential work on behalf of ATSC in the International Telecommunications Union and staging ATSC 3.0 demonstrations in Delhi, India.

Let’s get to know more about Sung-Ik!

Hi Dr. Park, tell me, what is a snapshot of your typical workday? As an ETRI researcher, my typical day involves engaging in advanced research activities focused on broadcasting and telecommunication. This includes conducting experiments, simulations, and studies aimed at pushing the boundaries of the latest technologies. Documenting our research findings in scientific papers and technical reports is crucial for sharing insights with the global research community and contributing to the advancement of knowledge. I stay updated with the latest industry trends through continuous learning, attending conferences, and participating in seminars. Collaboration with industry partners helps us understand market demands and explore opportunities to commercialize our innovations, ultimately aiming to solve industry challenges and benefit society through technological advancements.

Are you a member of any ATSC planning team(s) or implementation team(s)? Yes, I am a member of ATSC IT-2 India Implementation Team, IT-4 Brazil Implementation Team, IT-5 Tower Network Implementation Team, IT-7 Caribbean Implementation Team, and IT-8 Implementation Team on Automotive. I am also a member of PT-4 Future Broadcast Ecosystem Technologies, PT-6 Global Recognition of ATSC 3.0, and PT-9 Sustainability. Even if I cannot participate in all the meetings, I am doing my best to learn from the meeting minutes and several shared documents.

What excites you most about the future of ATSC 3.0? What excites me most about the future of ATSC 3.0 is its potential to revolutionize broadcasting with ultra-high definition 4K video and immersive audio. Enhanced interactivity, datacasting, and direct-to-mobile content will greatly expand access and engagement. Its integration with internet services can create hybrid viewing experiences. Improved emergency alert systems will enhance public safety. The innovative business models and advertising opportunities it enables are incredibly promising. Overall, ATSC 3.0 offers vast opportunities for innovation and societal benefits.

Tell us about your family, including any pets. I have a wonderful family that includes my wife, who works as an elementary school teacher, and two children. My daughter is in the 2nd grade of middle school and is very interested in cooking. My son is in the sixth grade of elementary school and is really good at running; he recently won a prize at the Daejeon City Athletics Competition. We also have two adorable cats that add a lot of joy and fun to our household. We enjoy spending time together, whether it’s helping the kids with their school projects, exploring new activities, or simply relaxing at home with our pets.

What are you currently reading?  Currently, I’m primarily focused on reading research papers related to my work. However, whenever I find the time, I enjoy diving into science fiction novels. Science fiction not only entertains me but also provides fascinating insights and speculations about the future of technology and society. It’s a genre that sparks my imagination and often correlates with the innovative ideas I explore in my professional life.

What are you currently binge-watching? Currently, I’m binge-watching Korean content that explores traveling the world with a backpack, enjoying it with my family. It inspires me with three things I hope to do someday: experiencing diverse cultures firsthand, discovering hidden gems around the globe, and forging unforgettable memories with loved ones through adventurous journeys.

What are your ideal weekend plans? My ideal weekend plans include hiking or trekking with friends from high school or hometown or family, enjoying nature’s beauty together.

Posted in ATSC News