Kang Chil-soon, 51, has become the first female to head a regional headquarters of Korea Railroad, the national rail operator.

In the July 1 reshuffle, Kang was named chief of Korail’s regional headquarters for Seoul, making her Korail’s first female regional chief in the company’s 111-year history.

Korail’s Seoul headquarters is responsible for the company’s services and facilities in Seoul and the surrounding area, including the Seoul Station.

Kang began her career in 1977 when she joined the civil service in the now-defunct Ministry of Government Administration.

Since then she has held a variety of posts within the rail service, including that of station master and head of marketing.

In her 34-year career, she has also served in key customer satisfaction-related posts including that as the head of Korail’s customer service center.

Kang, who received a master’s degree in management from Inha University, has also received a number of commendations for her service to the company.

In 2005 Kang received the Prime Minister’s Award and in 2010 she received the president’s commendation for her efforts in improving Korail’s services.

In 2009, she was received an award for her contribution towards improving women’s rights and social status in Korea from the Korea National Council of Women.

By Choi He-suk  (cheesuk@heraldcorp.com)