What do cotton seeds and modern entrepreneurship have in common? More than you might think. In Chapter 10 of my book David Before the Gray Rhino, I explore the "Moon Ik-jeom Project"—a historical case study with profound lessons for today's business leaders and Christians navigating an uncertain world.
Understanding the Gray Rhino
The term "gray rhino," coined by Michele Wucker at the 2013 Davos Forum, describes highly probable, high-impact threats that we choose to ignore or downplay. Unlike "black swans" (unpredictable surprises), gray rhinos are visible and approaching—yet we often fail to prepare for them.
The Fourth Industrial Revolution, demographic shifts, climate change, and pandemics like COVID-19 are all gray rhinos. We see them coming, but do we respond appropriately?
Moon Ik-jeom: Korea's First Entrepreneur
In the late Goryeo period, Moon Ik-jeom (문익점) traveled to Yuan China as a diplomat. When he returned, he secretly brought back cotton seeds hidden in his brush handle—a bold and risky move that would transform Korean society.
Before cotton, Koreans relied on hemp and silk for clothing. Cotton was revolutionary: warmer, more durable, and accessible to common people. Moon Ik-jeom didn't just import seeds; he:
- Established the foundation for Korea's cotton industry
- Developed new weaving tools and techniques
- Made quality clothing available to all social classes
- Created an entirely new economic sector
I argue that Moon Ik-jeom was Korea's first true entrepreneur—someone who identified a societal need, took risks to address it, and created lasting value through innovation.
Lessons for Christian Entrepreneurs
My book David Before the Gray Rhino presents 33 core entrepreneurial principles for Christian business leaders navigating the massive changes of our era. The Moon Ik-jeom Project illustrates several key points:
1. See What Others Miss
Moon Ik-jeom recognized the transformative potential of cotton when others saw just a plant. Christian entrepreneurs must cultivate discernment to identify coming changes and opportunities.
2. Take Calculated Risks
Smuggling cotton seeds was dangerous, but Moon calculated that the potential benefit outweighed the risk. We must be willing to step out in faith when God opens doors.
3. Think Long-Term
Moon didn't just plant seeds for himself—he established an industry that would serve generations. Christian business should create lasting value, not just quick profits.
4. Serve the Common Good
Cotton clothing became accessible to everyone, not just the elite. Businesses operating "in Jesus' name" should prioritize service and social benefit alongside profit.
5. Embrace Innovation
Moon developed new tools and techniques. We must be willing to adapt, learn, and innovate to meet the challenges of our rapidly changing world.
Facing Today's Gray Rhinos
Just as Moon Ik-jeom prepared Korea for a textile revolution, Christian entrepreneurs today must prepare for the gray rhinos charging toward us: technological disruption, climate change, demographic shifts, and more.
The question isn't whether these changes are coming—they are. The question is: Will we board the ark before the flood, or will we be swept away?
The Moon Ik-jeom Project teaches us that one person, acting with vision and courage, can transform an entire society. What cotton seeds might God be calling you to plant today?