By Honorary Reporter Khushi Yadav from India

Photos = MyLynntv

Choi Lynn, a teen Youtuber who had a million subscribers before finishing elementary school, began his influencer career at age 10. His channel Mylynntv grew popular for featuring his daily life, entertainment for youth as well as interviews with other youngsters. Now a 16-year-old high school student, he remains one of Korea's most famous video creators.

In an email interview on April 28, he discussed his childhood and YouTube journey. 

Choi Lynn, now 16, began his YouTube career at age 10.

How did you become a YouTube creator and name your channel Mylynntv?
When I started playing Minecraft in the second grade, I fell in love with watching videos about the game on YouTube. I soon grew interested in what a YouTube creator is and started a YouTube channel by entering the event Google Kids Day as a third grader. I named the channel Mylynntv at the event after my real name. 

How did you overcome your fear of talking in front of a camera?
In the beginning, I was too shy to speak but knew I had to for the sake of viewers. I was still embarrassed to speak in front of a camera, especially when someone was watching, so rather than overcoming it, I got used to it while filming.

This is Choi's first video thumbnail. 

How do you balance life between YouTube and high school? 

In elementary school, my goal was to upload one short video every day. I've gradually cut the number of videos since middle school and now upload about one or two a week. In high school, I can't neglect my studies so rather than planning separate content, I make videos on school life.

What do you think makes your videos unique?
As a high school student, I run a channel mainly on studying and school vlogs, but until middle school, I gave information on people and products that my peers liked more quickly and widely than anyone else. I also did a lot of collaborations with other YouTubers my age; I think Mylynntv is the channel with the most collaborations in Korea. So I accommodated a wide range of viewers, even if they weren't necessarily interested in or liked me. I never imagined getting a million subscribers and still can't believe it.

How do you feel about your nickname "Little Yoo Jae-suk" after the TV host? 
While running a YouTube channel, I played a lot of roles like that of a host inviting guests to interviews or having fun, so I think that's how I got that nickname. 

Choi Lynn poses for a picture with star comedians Yoo Jae-suk and Jo Se-ho.

As a winner of YouTube's Golden Play Button, what are your goals on the platform?
Exactly two years from now, I will enter college and Mylynntv will mark its 10th anniversary. To commemorate this occasion, I want to open an education foundation to promote a better environment for young viewers. Over the past six years, I've seen many viewers grow up in less fortunate environments while doing my channel, so helping them -- even a little -- is repaying the love I've received.

What final message do you have for Korea.net readers?
Most people think they're smart and have a lot of talent, but I think the only difference is the many opportunities available to those who express themselves well. Even if not on YouTube, I hope everyone can express their own values, talents, interests and specialties on a platform that suits them and meet many friends. And if things don't work out early on, don't give up.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things.