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From first pour to first place: Yejin’s coffee journey
Great coffee starts with great people, and Yejin’s story is a brilliant example of where passion and curiosity can lead. From discovering coffee during a gap year to winning the BM Barista Championship (BMBC) 2024, her journey has been shaped by learning, challenge, and community.
Meet Yejin
Yejin was born in South Korea and is now based in London, where she works as a Head Barista at a prestigious law firm. She has spent the past three years developing her craft and building meaningful connections through coffee.
Before this, she worked in commercial coffee shops, including Starbucks, but her perspective on coffee evolved significantly over time.
“I’ve been able to explore the world of coffee more deeply, meeting roasters, learning from experienced trainers, and entering competitions. It’s been a privilege to understand the intricacies of the coffee supply chain and speciality coffee.”
Along the way, she has built strong relationships with customers, fellow baristas, chefs, and others across hospitality, all of whom have played a role in shaping her journey.
When coffee clicked
Coffee was not always the plan.
Yejin originally studied Graphic Design but realised it was not something that excited her day to day. During a gap year, she took a job as a barista and quickly found her direction.
“I started work at 7:00am and realised it was my thing. I had energy, I looked forward to it, it brought me joy.”
That experience led her to move to Europe to improve her English and continue working in coffee.
“So many people drink coffee, and I get to be part of one minute in their day that can bring them joy.”
Winning the BM Barista Championship
In 2024, Yejin entered the BM Barista Championship and took first place.
More important than the result was the confidence she gained.
“I was worried because English isn’t my first language, especially about presenting. Now I know I can do it.”
The experience pushed her to deepen her knowledge, from developing her own extraction recipes to understanding how origin and processing affect flavour.
Support from others played a huge role in that growth. Mentors Monica and Paula helped guide her when she felt unsure, while Milda and Verdiana offered encouragement throughout the process.
“I didn’t always know what was good or bad at the start. My mentors helped me understand what good looks like and supported me when I felt lost.”
Collaboration was also key. Chef Gareth Ruck worked closely with Yejin on her signature drinks, helping her refine ideas and develop balanced flavour profiles.
Taking It to the next level
After winning, she decided to challenge herself further by entering the UK Barista Championship.
“Winning felt incredible. I wanted to experience that again. It was stressful, but after performing, the pride and joy made it worth it.”
Encouragement from mentors like Paula and Gareth Ruck helped her take that next step and aim higher.
A new level of competition
While the structure of competitions is similar, the level steps up significantly at a national level.
“The format is similar, but the level of professionalism is much higher.”
Rather than comparing herself to others, she stays focused on her own preparation.
“I try to use my time to practise and deliver everything I’ve worked on. The level is very high, but I focus on doing my best.”
Training, challenges, and growth
Preparation is intense, and one area stands out as particularly challenging.
“The sensory round is the hardest. Coffee is so subjective and everyone’s taste is different. It’s hard to anticipate what judges will think.”
Even here, having the support and guidance of experienced mentors has helped her stay focused and continue improving.
What makes an exceptional barista?
For Yejin, being a great barista goes beyond technique.
“Consistent tamping and good milk make a barista good. But being exceptional is more. It’s about creating a warm and professional experience.”
Remembering names, understanding preferences, and building relationships all contribute to that experience.
Looking beyond the cup
As her knowledge has grown, so has her awareness of the wider coffee industry.
“I didn’t used to think about where coffee comes from. Now I understand the bigger picture, including the environmental and social impact.”
Learning about sourcing, sustainability, and waste has made her more mindful in her day-to-day work.
What success looks like
For Yejin, success is about growth and connection as much as results.
“I want to meet more people in the industry, learn from others, and push my limits.”
The experience has opened new possibilities and given her confidence to explore how far she can go in her career.
Advice for aspiring baristas
Yejin encourages others to take opportunities, even if they feel uncertain.
“You never know what can happen. Just deciding to do it is already something to be proud of.”
She now supports and mentors others, passing on the same encouragement she received.
“It’s nerve-wracking, but if you love coffee, it’s inspiring. If you’re hesitating, don’t. It will be a great experience.”
Yejin’s journey is a reminder that passion, support, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone can take you further than you expect.
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