Yama (Jinwoo) Kim
Australia
Kingswood Coffee Roasters
Please tell us a little about yourself:
My name is Yama (Jinwoo) Kim, I am 28 and work as a barista at Kingswood Coffee in Sydney. I have an degree in viticulture, my passion in coffee is to investigate how differences in growing conditions, processing and roasting impart varied nuances and flavours in coffee.
How did you get started in coffee?:
Sounds a little wacky but my interest in coffee started after I started watching a Korean drama called Coffee Prince in 2007. From there I enrolled in a coffee school and got my first job behind the bar in my hometown.
Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results:
2017 Central Region Cup Tasters Championship Winner
2017 Australian Cup Tasters Championship Winner
2018 Central Region Cup Tasters Championship Winner
2018 Australian Cup Tasters Championship Winner
What are you excited to do while you are in Brazil?:
I am interested in art and architecture, would love to see the Cristo Redentor statue if i get the chance, maybe even the Amazon River!
What is your favorite coffee to cup?:
CM processing imparts lots of nuances that I have not tasted before in coffee. I feel that this field of processing is the future of high-end speciality coffee.
What are your interests outside of coffee?:
Kimchi, fine wine, architecture, contemporary art, fried chicken.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?:
I would like to support the growth of Kingswood Coffee Roasters. I am also interested in expanding my knowledge through teaching and educating younger baristas.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the competition?:
I would like to thank my boss Mikey, and manager Dai, they have given me many opportunities to grow in the coffee industry and better my skills. My team at Kingswood who have always been so supportive. Also Ryan and Jinna who have spent countless nights cupping with me.
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