Alumna Ashley Koo’s Path to Pastry Entrepreneurship
Ashley Koo, a member of the YISS Class of 2021, was known both for her involvement in school activities and for the quiet kindness she shared with those around her. As a student, she co-founded the YISSPN Club, led the varsity girls’ tennis team as captain and first singles, and made school history by bringing home YISS’ first KAIAC Tennis Champion title. But one small habit many remember is how she often shared homemade pastries at lunch—treats she baked just to see others enjoy them.
After graduating high school, Ashley continued her studies with a clear academic path in mind. She planned to complete her undergraduate degree at Cornell University’s Dyson Business School in just three years and move straight into an MBA. In her third year, with her MBA application complete and recommendations in hand, she was ready to submit. But with a bold decision, Ashley chose a different path.
Instead of pressing submit, Ashley enrolled at The Pastry Academy, led by world-renowned pastry chef Amaury Guichon. There, she realized that, more than being just a hobby, baking was something she genuinely wanted to pursue. After completing her training, Ashley returned to Seoul to launch Petit Amour, an online pastry boutique that blends the tradition of French technique with the creativity of Korean flavors. From branding to pricing to photography, she has built her business entirely on her own.
Most recently, Ashley participated in the YISS International Bazaar, where she completely sold out of her gourmet desserts: pâte de fruit, fruit tarts, cookies, and more. Although her path has taken some unexpected turns, Ashley looks back on her journey without regrets.
To current YISS students, Ashley shares this advice: “It’s important to listen to the advice of others, but more importantly, take time to think about what you truly want. Follow what brings you happiness. Creating Petit Amour has been a challenge like no other, but doing so has brought so much personal fulfillment and satisfaction!”
Her story shows that success isn’t only about achievements; it’s also about finding what matters to you and having the courage to pursue it.
Ashley’s online boutique can be viewed at the following link: https://www.instagram.com/petit_amour_.