Today we’d like to introduce you to Munsok So
Hi Munsok, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always been passionate about entrepreneurship and the idea of building something from the ground up. My journey started when I moved to St. Louis and saw an opportunity to bring unique dining and entertainment experiences to the area. With a vision to combine high-quality cuisine and a modern ambiance, I launched Drunken Fish, a sushi and Japanese cuisine restaurant, which quickly gained recognition and expanded to multiple locations.
From there, my passion for creating innovative concepts grew, leading to the launch of Kimchi Guys, a Korean-inspired fast-casual restaurant, and 612North, a stunning event space that merges history and elegance in downtown St. Louis. Each concept I’ve developed reflects my love for bringing people together over food and memorable experiences.
Beyond hospitality, I’ve also ventured into real estate, managing several commercial buildings and residential properties, which has allowed me to diversify and strengthen my business portfolio.
One of the most fulfilling parts of this journey has been building an incredible team. From managers and chefs to event planners and support staff, I’ve been fortunate to work with talented and passionate individuals who share my vision and commitment to excellence. Together, we’ve created something truly special, and I am immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished as a team.
Balancing these businesses while maintaining a focus on quality and service has been challenging but rewarding. Today, I feel fortunate to contribute to the local community through job creation and spaces that people love to visit, celebrate, and enjoy. It’s been a journey of hard work, calculated risks, and a relentless drive to grow, and I look forward to what’s next.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. Like any entrepreneurial journey, there have been challenges along the way, but each struggle has been an opportunity for growth and learning.
Early on, one of the biggest hurdles was introducing new concepts like sushi and Korean-inspired cuisine to a market that wasn’t as familiar with these options. Educating customers and earning their trust took time, but persistence and a commitment to quality made a difference.
Another significant challenge has been navigating the ups and downs of running multiple businesses, from staffing shortages and economic fluctuations to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which hit the hospitality industry particularly hard. Keeping my team motivated, adapting quickly to new restrictions, and finding creative ways to stay afloat during those uncertain times tested my resilience as a business owner.
Balancing growth with maintaining high standards has also been a learning curve. Expanding to new locations and launching new concepts required taking risks and making difficult decisions. There were moments of doubt, but I’ve always relied on staying true to my vision and leaning on the amazing team we’ve built to move forward.
Through it all, these challenges have made the successes even more rewarding. They’ve taught me the value of adaptability, hard work, and surrounding myself with people who share my passion and commitment.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
About So Hospitality Group
So Hospitality Group is a multifaceted business rooted in hospitality, innovation, and excellence. Our mission is to create unforgettable experiences through exceptional dining, event spaces, and community-focused services. Based in St. Louis, Missouri, we are proud to own and operate several renowned brands, including Drunken Fish, Kimchi Guys, and 612North Event Space + Catering.
What We Do & Specialize In
Drunken Fish: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and award-winning sushi, Drunken Fish is a premier destination for Japanese cuisine in St. Louis and beyond.
Kimchi Guys: We bring the bold flavors of Korean-inspired cuisine to the fast-casual dining scene, offering a unique fusion of tradition and convenience.
612North: This stunning event space combines historic charm with modern sophistication, hosting weddings, corporate events, and celebrations with unparalleled service and breathtaking views.
In addition to hospitality, we also manage commercial buildings and residential properties, further diversifying our offerings and impact in the region.
What Sets Us Apart
We pride ourselves on innovation, consistency, and community connection. Each of our brands offers a unique experience tailored to customer needs, whether it’s a fine dining evening, a quick and flavorful meal, or a once-in-a-lifetime event in a spectacular venue. What truly sets us apart is our relentless focus on quality, our ability to adapt to trends and challenges, and the incredible team that drives our vision forward every day.
What We’re Most Proud Of
Brand-wise, we are incredibly proud of Drunken Fish and its evolution into a household name in St. Louis and beyond. It represents our dedication to elevating the dining experience. Equally, 612North is a testament to our creativity and passion for creating spaces where memories are made.
What We Want You to Know
At So Hospitality Group, our focus is not just on delivering services but on building experiences that bring people together. Whether you’re enjoying sushi with friends, grabbing Korean BBQ on the go, or celebrating a milestone event, we aim to exceed expectations. We believe hospitality is about connection, and that philosophy drives everything we do.
If you’re looking for exceptional food, unforgettable events, or a company deeply committed to its community, So Hospitality Group is here to deliver.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Some of my favorite resources that have inspired and guided me include Winning by Jack Welch, which provides timeless lessons on leadership, strategy, and resilience. I also enjoy tuning into various business podcasts that cover topics ranging from entrepreneurship and management to personal development. These resources help me stay sharp, gain new perspectives, and continuously improve both personally and professionally.
Contact Info:
- Website: drunkenfish.com, kimchiguys.com and 612north.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drunkenfish, https://www.instagram.com/kimchiguys and https://www.instagram.com/612north
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drunkenfish https://www.facebook.com/kimchiguys and https://www.facebook.com/612north
