FILA Holdings Corp.

- From serving alongside the U.S. military to leading an iconic global fashion brand, Chairman Gene Yoon has been recognized for his dedication to strengthening U.S.-Korea relations 

FILA Holdings announced today that Yoon Soo (Gene) Yoon, Chairman of the Board at FILA Holdings Corp. & Acushnet Holdings Corp., has been honored with the prestigious General James A. Van Fleet Award by The Korea Society, a United States-based nonprofit organization, for his dedication to strengthening ties between the U.S. and the Republic of Korea. 

Mr. Yoon received the award at The Korea Society’s 2024 Annual Dinner, held in New York City on September 30. He shared the honor with fellow recipient Seri Pak, South Korea’s legendary former professional golf player.  

The Van Fleet Award, named after the U.S. Eighth Army’s former commander during the Korean War, General James A. Van Fleet, has been awarded annually since 1992 to individuals who have made notable contributions to the enhancement of U.S.-Korea relations. Previous recipients include former U.S. President George W. Bush, the Republic of Korea’s late President Kim Dae-jung, former U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, and global business leaders such as Samsung’s late Chairman Lee Kun-hee and Hyundai Motor Group’s Honorary Chairman Chung Mong-koo. 

A self-made entrepreneur who has played a pivotal role in driving international business growth, Mr. Yoon was recognized for his longstanding efforts to build bridges between the U.S. and Korea through both business ventures and philanthropic initiatives. Known for his visionary leadership at FILA Holdings and Acushnet Holdings, Mr. Yoon’s tireless work to advance cross-border economic relations has deepened U.S.-Korea collaboration and fostered mutual understanding.  

“We are proud to honor Chairman Yoon with this year’s Van Fleet Award for his dedication to promoting the U.S.-Korea economic partnership,” said Thomas Byrne, President and CEO of The Korea Society. “His leadership at FILA and Acushnet has been instrumental in fostering deeper collaboration between our two countries.” 

In his acceptance remarks, Mr. Yoon highlighted the significance of the enduring relationship between the U.S. and Korea, particularly in the fashion and sports industries. “The progress we’ve made in the global fashion industry is a testament to the strength of U.S.-Korea ties,” he remarked. “I am deeply committed to addressing the challenges faced by our industry and will continue working to ensure a sustainable future for the global community.”