Biography:
Yi So-yeon, born on June 2, 1978, is a South Korean astronaut and biotechnologist who made history as the first Korean to venture into space. Born to parents Yi Gil-soo and Jeong Geum-soon, she was raised in Gwangju, South Korea. Deeply interested in science and space exploration from a young age, Yi pursued her education at Gwangju Science High School, where she excelled in her studies.
Yi’s passion for mechanics led her to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree with a specialization in mechanics from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) in Daejeon. Her dedication and commitment in her field were recognized when she was awarded a doctorate in biotech systems on February 29, 2008. Unfortunately, Yi was unable to attend the ceremony, as she was fully devoted to her training commitments in Russia.
In December 2006, Yi was selected as one of the two finalists in the Korean Astronaut Program. After undergoing rigorous training and tests in Russia, she was chosen as the backup astronaut to Ko San by the Korean Ministry of Science and Technology in September 2007. However, on March 7, 2008, Yi was selected to train with the primary crew, and three days later it was announced that she would replace Ko as the primary astronaut. This decision was made when Ko violated regulations multiple times at a Russian training center by removing sensitive reading materials and sending one back to Korea.
On April 8, 2008, Yi embarked on her historic space journey, launched into space aboard Soyuz TMA-12 alongside two Russian cosmonauts. It was reported that South Korea paid Russia $20 million for Yi’s spaceflight, solidifying her place in history as the first national from her country to reach space. Her achievement followed in the footsteps of Helen Sharman of the United Kingdom and Anousheh Ansari, an Iranian American.
Yi’s contribution to space exploration and her role as a woman in the field have been significant. Her remarkable accomplishment has inspired many and opened doors for future generations of South Korean astronauts. Her mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS) not only expanded our knowledge of space but also showcased the advancements and achievements of South Korea in the scientific realm.
After her return to Earth, Yi continued her work as a researcher at the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI). She also had the opportunity to further broaden her horizons by attending the International Space University. Eventually, Yi decided to pursue an MBA at the University of California, Berkeley Haas School of Business, demonstrating her drive for personal and professional growth.
Yi’s impact extends beyond her time in space. In 2015, she shared her knowledge and expertise as an Engineering Physics Professor at Everett Community College in Washington State. Her dedication to education and inspiring future scientists and engineers further contributes to her lasting legacy.