[Expert Column] Building an AI-Proof Corporate Structure on Legacy, Magnetism, and Connection

>>The Korea Daily - Expert Column Article<<

Written by Stella H. Kim, SPHR

Published May 22, 2025

Corporate Value Shaped by Organizational Philosophy, Culture, and Mission

Stella H. Kim, SVP, Head of Americas & CMO at HRCap

The average lifespan of companies has continued to shrink significantly.

According to a recent McKinsey study, the average lifespan of an S&P 500 company was 61 years in 1958, while today it is less than 18. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that fewer than 10% of businesses survive beyond 25 years.

In an era where even survival is not guaranteed, sustainability must become a corporate strategy and structural imperative. Companies must go beyond operational efficiency and intentionally build an evolving corporate framework by continuously challenging and strengthening their foundational principles, strategic direction, and key relationships.

At the heart of this structural framework are three core pillar themes: Legacy, Magnetism, and Connection.

Legacy is the unshakable foundation of undeniably earned and deeply proven expertise. A true legacy is not simply built on longevity or accolades alone, but on the cumulative depth of experiences gained and expertise honed over time. When an organization commits to clear decision-making principles and consistently delivers distinctive insight with unwavering excellence, it cultivates a powerful inner core—a legacy—that remains steadfast even amid external market shocks.

Magnetism is the unique brand energy radiated by influential organizations. This magnetic force is not driven by revenue or marketing prowess alone—it emanates organically from deeply held values and an authentic organizational culture. For the MZ generation, the meaning of work and sense of vocational mission now outweigh mere compensation. They are drawn not by conditions, but by purposeful direction and contagious energy. Organizations fueled by clear direction and values-based conviction naturally attract talent, ignite potential, and amplify collective impact through their magnetism.

Connection is more than formed relationships—it is the key to unlocking the future. Enduring connections are not built on information, but on shared context and purposeful intent. The true strength of a connection is not measured by “who introduced whom,” but by the value it generates and the opportunities it catalyzes. In an age where speed can easily dilute relationships, an organization’s network power lies not in the number of contacts, but in its ability to cultivate and sustain long-term, mission-aligned strategic partnerships that evolve and scale together.

Ultimately, legacy is the philosophy, magnetism is the culture, and connection is the mission that looks toward the future. An organization must intentionally architect its structure to survive, consistently build upon its core standards to grow, and consciously uphold social responsibilities to remain relevant to society. Only then can it transcend the ordinary, build a meaningful brand, set the industry benchmark, and become a defining symbol of its era.

HRCap's 3 Core Pillar Themes - Legacy, Magnetism, and Connection 

For the past 25 years, HRCap, a Top 10 Global Executive Search & HR Consulting firm, has been designing and refining its corporate structure deeply anchored in these three pillars. As we enter the next chapter—HRCap 2.0—we are boldly preparing for another 25 years, leading the future of work as a sustainable, symbolic brand that builds legacy, radiates magnetism, and drives connection.

Stella H. Kim, SPHR

HRCap – SVP, Head of Americas & Chief Marketing Officer