The Walt Disney Company said that Carol Choi, currently Executive Vice President of Disney Asia Pacific, will succeed Luke Kang as President, APAC following his decision to retire after 16 years with the company.
In her new role, effective December 1, Choi will lead Disney Entertainment’s portfolio of businesses across Asia Pacific including studios, Disney+, local original content production, consumer products, media networks and content sales.
Her remit spans Greater China, Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand.
“Luke Kang has been an exceptional leader and a driving force behind Disney’s growth and transformation across Asia Pacific,” said Alan Bergman, Chairman, Disney Entertainment, Studios, and Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman, ESPN.
“He has strengthened our businesses, built outstanding teams and deepened Disney’s connection with fans across the region, and we are grateful for his many contributions.
Carol Choi is a proven Disney leader with broad operating experience, strong creative instincts, and a deep understanding of the region, and she is the perfect person to lead the organization into its next chapter.”
Kang commented: “It has been an extraordinary privilege to lead Disney in Asia Pacific through a period of significant growth and transformation. Together, we have strengthened our businesses, expanded the reach of Disney’s stories and brands, and built new ways to serve our fans across one of the world’s most dynamic regions. Carol is an exceptional leader whose deep knowledge of our businesses, creative ambition, and instinct for consumers make her uniquely positioned to build on this momentum and lead APAC into its next phase of growth.”
Choi said: “I am honored to take on this role and grateful to Luke for the strong foundation he has built,” said Choi. “Asia Pacific is home to some of the world’s most passionate fans and dynamic creative communities. I look forward to working with our teams and partners to bring exceptional stories and experiences to audiences, grow our businesses, and deepen Disney’s connection with fans across the region.”
In the EVP role, Choi, a 20-year Disney veteran, led the region’s studios business, original content strategy and integrated marketing. She previously served as Managing Director of Disney in Japan and Korea and held senior leadership roles in Greater China.
During her tenure, Choi helped launch and grow Disney+, expand the studios business, and build long-term collaborations with leading filmmakers and talent across the region.
Kang joined Disney in 2011 as Managing Director of Korea and subsequently ran the Greater China and North Asia businesses, expanding Disney’s presence through localization, digital innovation and consumer engagement. During his tenure as APAC president he oversaw the launch of Disney+ across the region and the studio’s entry into local-language content in several markets, including Korea and Japan.