Face Time with Bill Cho

Elburn resident Bill Cho, 45, was at Bill Cho's United Taekwondo Center in St. Charles when he answered 10 questions for the Kane County Chronicle's Al Lagattolla. To view a video of a recent Bill Cho's event at Kaneland High School, visit www.facebook.com/billchosutcstcharles.

Where did you grow up? I grew up in South Korea.

When did you come here? I was 16

Did you come right to St. Charles? I lived in Hoffman Estates. … My first job was at the St. Charles Park District at Pottawatomie. I started teaching taekwondo to the kids and learning English through the kids. … That is how I started teaching martial arts.

Did you do martial arts in South Korea? I started when I was 5. It was a hobby.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up? I totally changed my career. My dream was being a lawyer. That's why I came to America, why my father immigrated here for my education. But I decided to teach martial arts.

How long have you been in St. Charles? I have been here 23 years operating the school in St. Charles. I've had a location in Sycamore for seven years.

What degree black belt are you? I am a seventh-degree black belt, recognized by the World Taekwondo Federation, which is in Korea.

Do you have charity events? We had a kickathon. We break boards and money goes to charity. … We do golf outings and car washes. We do a toy drive. We send four or five boxes every year.

Do you have a favorite local restaurant? Mr. Samurai. … It's not only about the taste and flavor. They are welcoming.

What is an interesting factoid about yourself? I'm just a normal guy. I don't work by paycheck. It is my passion.