Contact
  • HOME
  • / MEDIA /
  • Korean American Screenwriter’s Journey From Working in Advertising to Redefining Asian American Narratives in Hollywood

Stories

July 5, 2023

SHARE:

In the bustling world of Hollywood, where dreams are forged and narratives come to life, Korean American screenwriter William Yu has emerged as a rising force.

Hailing from Philadelphia, Hong Kong, Boston, and New York, and now based in Los Angeles, William has taken the leap from having a successful advertising career into the world of screenwriting, fueled by a desire to create ambitious stories with vibrant and nuanced characters and to challenge the boundaries of Asian American representation.

William writes sharp, biting stories about witty underdogs who rise to upend the systems that they’ve been held back by.

Projects like “Good Boy,” a dramedy exploring the clash between personal dreams and familial expectations, and his feature romantic comedy “It Was You,” recognized by the esteemed Black List, showcase William’s talent and ambition. As an alum of the prestigious Sundance Episodic Labs and the NBCU Launch TV Writers Program, his work not only contributes to the larger conversation on Asian American representation in the entertainment industry but also pushes the boundaries of storytelling.

In an interview with Asian Hustle Network, William gives us a front seat on his journey as a screenwriter. Join us as we delve into his inspiring story.

TRANSITIONING FROM HIS ADVERTISING CAREER TO BECOMING A SCREENWRITER

Before becoming a screenwriter, I worked in advertising as a Creative Strategist for some years. Having this professional background not only gave me the structure and discipline that I’ve carried over to writing but also instilled a self-starter mindset that gets excited by creative ideas that go against the grain.

Two things happened. The first: I hit a quarter-life crisis after finding a list of goals I had written down after I graduated college. I realized that I had accomplished most of these milestones, but was finding my mental health was quickly deteriorating to the point where I had to make a change.

The second: I had recently created a project called #StarringJohnCho that sparked a viral, global conversation about Asian representation in media. Seeing so many communities engage in this movement demonstrated to me that a profound cultural shift was happening. I could either sit on the sidelines in advertising and continue to critique Hollywood from the outside, or I could dive into this world, participate in the craft, and write the stories I wish I knew. So, I took the leap.

CHALLENGES OF BEING A SCREENWRITER FROM AN UNDERREPRESENTED BACKGROUND

I entered Hollywood because I wanted to expand the definition and labels that have traditionally been assigned to the Asian American community, to go from “good” and “bad” to “awkward” and “messy” and “joyful” and “gut-wrenching.” But as much as I want to create characters and narratives that are rooted in my experience, I need to write stories that are first and foremost–entertaining.

As a screenwriter from an underrepresented group, there is always a well-intentioned instinct to cast our people in a soft, non-offensive glow. But who wants to watch that film or TV series? Part of the representation that I want to add to is demonstrating that as much as we are brave and tenacious, we are also flawed and dangerous, whether that’s in a small indie project or a massive studio tentpole. I believe that the faster we can jump into that conversation, exciting stories are destined to follow.

ABOUT THE DRAMEDY “GOOD BOY”

The short film is a proof of concept for a TV series I’m developing that’s been workshopped through the Sundance Episodic Labs. It’s a personal story that’s loosely based on my time working at Bodega – the world-famous sneaker shop started in Boston – and various conversations and feelings that I’ve had with exes, best friends, my family, and other people that I love.

Streetwear is a world where the clash of cultures is the point. There is no “right answer” – It’s funny and ugly and inspiring. Isn’t that the case for life as well?

‘Good Boy’ was my way of reflecting on moments in my life when I’ve felt cared for, hurt, joyous, and lost. I tried to not just depict what I was feeling, but also reflect on why I felt those feelings. When I first started writing the original pilot script in the Fall of 2019, I was simultaneously embracing my own agency in my life. My hope is that this story might nudge others to also own their journeys moving forward.

MORE OF WILLIAM’S PROJECTS

I’m extremely proud of ‘It Was You,’ my feature romantic comedy that’s like if Nora Ephron’s ‘You’ve Got Mail’ was set in Manhattan Chinatown. The script was voted to the annual Black List – a compilation of the most well-liked unproduced scripts in Hollywood – and ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ director Jon M. Chu is attached as a producer. I’m such a massive fan of those ‘90s-era rom-coms and this story was such a light to write during the pandemic. 

My latest TV project is a political scandal drama called ‘Koreagate’ which is based on the true story set in the 1970s of a charming swindler in Washington D.C. known as “The Asian Gatsby” who was found to be bribing U.S. Congressmen in the name of South Korean interests. It’s a wild, pulpy, fast-paced tale in the vein of The Wolf Of Wall Street and The Post that showcases America at its best and its worst. And it all really happened!

WILLIAM’S CONTRIBUTION TO ASIAN AMERICAN REPRESENTATION IN THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY

My main goal as a storyteller is to create ambitious stories with vibrant and nuanced characters. If I can hold up my end of the equation, I believe the representation conversation will only expand and grow in complexity.

What’s so exciting is that this is a LARGE conversation, there are so many voices and stories from our community that have yet to come to the forefront. And when we all overlap and intersect and discuss, that’s when the magic happens.

WILLIAM’S ASPIRATIONS LOOKING FORWARD AS A SCREENWRITER

First off, my biggest hope right now is that the WGA strike ends soon and that the studios pay us writers what we deserve.

What excites me is continuing to push my ideas to new heights in terms of scale and wonder. Stories that push the boundaries of the imagination. That wink at you while flipping you off. I’ve been working on a family adventure blockbuster and romance crime drama lately, and have a romantic comedy feature script that takes a surprise turn into a thriller in the works next. Right now, I feel drawn to stories that feel twisted and that showcase characters brushing up against the extremities of who they are.

ADVICE TO THOSE WHO WANT TO START A CAREER IN THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY

I can only really speak for the screenwriting side of things. This industry may seem like it’s an image-driven business, but it’s actually a product-driven one.

Everyone has an idea for a story, so make sure you’re the one that has a script (or scripts!) ready to go when someone asks. Know that there are lots of stories of those who follow the “rules” or those who are “exceptions”, but know that there is no “right way” of making it in this industry. Lastly: Be kind.

CONNECT WITH WILLIAM

Instagram: @its_willyu

Twitter: @its_willyu

Website: itswillyu.com

Stream Good Boy

Good Boy Instagram: @goodboyteevee

Good Boy Twitter: @goodboyteevee

Good Boy Website: goodboytv.com

Related Articles

250612 (1)-jpg

Blogs, Development

The Secret Behind Every “Why”: Climbing the Ladder

Have you ever asked someone why they bought something, and then asked again? You’d be surprised to find out that the answer now extends beyond the functional—we’re getting emotional. That’s what “laddering” is about. 

Laddering is a simple but effective tool to dive deeper into the decision-making thought process. Instead of just asking what people like, we explore the whys. Each answer helps us climb the ladder from surface-level to more profound insights.

1. ATTRIBUTE

A specific feature or characteristic of a product or choice.

Example: “These shoes have extra cushioning.”

attribute

2. FUNCTIONAL BENEFIT

The practical or performance-related advantage that the attribute provides.

Example: “They make running more comfortable.”

functional_benefit

3. EMOTIONAL BENEFIT

How the person feels because of the functional benefit.

Example: “I feel more confident and energized when I run.”

emotional_benefit

4. PERSONAL VALUE

A deeper belief, life goal, or principle that the emotional benefit supports.

Example: “Being healthy helps me feel free and in control of my life.”

personal_value
Win Your Leads Now!

Why Asian Hustle Solutions?

At Asian Hustle Solutions, we help Asian-owned brands grow by understanding what truly drives their audience—beyond features, into feelings and values.

Book a FREE call with us

If you want to learn more about our services, visit the Asian Hustle Solutions website at asianhustlenetwork.com/services/

  • 2 min read
250605 (1)-jpg

Blogs, Development

Fishing for Success: Using the STP Model to Grow Your Brand

Marketing is like fishing—there are plenty of fish in the sea, but each type requires a different approach. Knowing your audience is not an open-and-shut case. It is the process of researching, analyzing, and evaluating your audience base. 

The following framework, STP, serves as your fishing rod—helping you cast with purpose and reel in the right catch.

S – Segmentation

The world isn’t a monolith. People have diverse needs and preferences—but some will share common demands that align with what your business offers. 

That’s why audience segmentation matters. By understanding the unique traits of each group, you can identify which ones are the best fit for your brand. 

audience-segmentation

T – Targeting

Now, after you have an overall picture of the market, it’s time to focus your efforts. Targeting means selecting the specific segment—or segments—that your brand is best positioned to serve. 

This is where you shift from broad insights to strategy, adapting your message, products, and services to meet their needs.

target-audience

P – Positioning

Now, it’s not just about who you are—but it’s also about who they think you are. 

Positioning answers the question: Why should they choose you? Whether it’s your values, pricing, design, or experience, positioning helps you own a unique space in the market.

brand-positioning
Win Your Leads Now!

Why Asian Hustle Solutions?

To grow your brand, the goal isn’t just to reach a large audience—it’s to build a loyal segment that will stay with you over time. Getting to know this audience takes patience and insight. That’s where Asian Hustle Solutions comes in to support you every step of the way.

Book a FREE call with us

If you want to learn more about our services, visit the Asian Hustle Solutions website at asianhustlenetwork.com/services/

  • 2 min read
chester-yow-png

Stories

From Singapore to New York: How Chester Yow Turned Doubt Into Drive

Breaking New Ground in a Foreign Land

For Chester Yow, the decision to leave Singapore, his hometown, wasn’t an excursion but rather a mission. After two years in the military, Chester aimed to challenge his own comfort zone, venturing far away from the familiar into the unknown of a new country on the other side of the world. “I wanted to prove that I can be successful in another country, in another city,” he shares. While it is common that many Asians would like to take the stable route to be near their community, Chester wanted to flip the script and rewrite his story.

Drawn to the fast pace and competitive spirit of New York City (NYC), Chester quickly realized that real estate was made for him—because for a person who doesn’t enjoy 9-to-5 office jobs like Chester, real estate allows the flexibility while maintaining the discipline needed to survive in NY. It is this combination of freedom and responsibility that has become the driving force for him to start building a network from scratch in this city that never sleeps.

Chester Yow, a Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker and Founder of the Chester Yow Team at SERHANT, smiling confidently in professional attire.
Chester Yow | Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker and Founder of Chester Yow Team at SERHANT

Shattering Stereotypes in the Heart of New York

“If you can make it there, you’ll make it anywhere.” It’s a common, inspirational pipeline when speaking of New York. It’s inspiring enough to imply that challenges will always remain—not to bring you down, but to toughen you up. Chester’s no exception. With a heart filled with unrelenting passion and determination, it was still not enough—especially when dealing with racial discrimination and prejudice.

As a fresh-off-the-boat Asian in the U.S., he soon faced the harsh realities here—that discrimination can be both subtle and publicized at the same time. “You do get looked down on as a ‘minority’ at times, and people tend to judge or doubt you faster. I sometimes get, ‘Wow, your English is so good’ (English is the spoken language of Singapore), or ‘Why aren’t you a doctor, lawyer, or accountant?’” he recalls.

Chester Yow, a Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker and Founder of the Chester Yow Team at SERHANT, who overcame early challenges in the U.S. such as racial discrimination and cultural differences, smiling confidently in professional attire.
Chester faced many challenges during his early days in the States, including racial discrimination and cultural differences. 

But instead of surrendering to the stereotypes, Chester leveraged them as inspiration. “I work harder than the next person, I study harder, I make sure I’m more prepared, I do everything necessary in my power so that there’s no doubt in anyone’s mind to question my capabilities.”

And his effort paid off. By exceeding expectations and proving himself with actual results, Chester is, step by step, changing common misconceptions—not only for himself but also for an Asian working in real estate in New York. Then, even those who doubted him reached out to him for work.

What grounds me is knowing why I work so hard and who I’m working for—my family, my loved ones, my future self 30 years down the road, and my own future family. I’m working hard for them. Having that quiet confidence to keep my head down and keep going is crucial, too.

The Life-Changing $450 Million Development Project

“Tough times don’t last, tough men do”—a quote from my military days that has stuck with me. Ryan Serhant also says, “You are allowed to quit—just make sure it’s on your best day.” You control your own destiny, and building mental toughness is essential to success. Mentorship is crucial for any entrepreneur, and one of Chester’s mentors can be traced back to his military days.

That advice led to a breakthrough in his career. One of the biggest turning points came in 2017, when Chester helped launch a $450 million luxury real estate project in Manhattan. As part of the SERHANT. team, he had the opportunity to bring the project to Ryan Serhant—one of the industry’s most prominent figures—and collaborate directly with his top-tier team.

Ryan Serhant (left) and Chester Yow (right) standing together, both in professional attire, smiling confidently.
Ryan Serhant (left) and Chester (right)

“That project didn’t just help me close more deals (and earn more), it grew my network with consumers and other top agents, to learn the ropes of new development, and to work and learn closely with Ryan, thus growing my career exponentially,” Chester shared. It was an experience that catapulted his career and opened doors that might’ve otherwise taken years to access.

Staying Rooted on Unfamiliar Ground

As someone who grew up in Asia, Chester was raised with a mindset rooted in caution and logic. “We’re often taught to think of the worst-case scenario, to lead with reason, and to stay guarded and conservative. But that can sometimes come off as negative or dismissive,” he said. Living and working in the U.S. challenged those values and pushed him to adopt a more balanced approach. “I’ve learned not just to be prepared for the worst, but also to lead with optimism, follow my heart, and be vulnerable. Embracing failure and change has been key to my growth.”

That flexibility in mindset has helped Chester adapt and thrive in a fast-paced environment like New York. Even after many years away from Singapore, he’s maintained a strong connection to its culture and community. He regularly attends events and is active in organizations that support Asians in NYC. “There are so many ways to stay connected to being Singaporean and Asian here,” he shared. “I have a great group of friends and partners—we collaborate, support each other’s businesses, and stay rooted in our culture. In fact, 70% of my clients are Asian, and working with them helps me stay connected as well.”

Connect With Chester Yow

“Work hard, work smart, stay persistent, and block out the noise around you. Find a purpose that gets you out of bed every day and use it as your daily motivation. Hold on to the people who believe in you—and forget the ones who don’t.”

Website: Chester Yow

Instagram: @chester.yow

  • 5 min read
250529_AHS-EMAIL-MKT-jpg

Blogs, Development

Winning with Keywords: How AHS Boosts Your Search Results

Words are not just a compilation of letters—there’s power and impact beneath them that can alter your brand’s SEO performance. Here are three tips to choose keywords with the right strategy and the right timing.

Look for Problem-Based Words

Instead of targeting what people want, focus on the audience’s problems. Before they want to buy, they have to be seen first. Scout public forums to find how users address their problems.

problem-based-words

Analyze SERP Intent, Not Just Search Volume 

Not every high-volume word should be used if the top results associated with that word are irrelevant to your content type.  Always check the SERP (search engine results page) to see Google’s current favorites—blogs, products, videos, etc.

focus-on-serp-intent

Track Keyword Trends by Season or Event

Utilize tools like Google Trends to identify rising keywords linked to seasons, holidays, or industry events. With the right timing, these short-term spikes will help drive quick traffic.

track-keywords
Win Your Leads Now!

Why Asian Hustle Solutions?

At AHS, we help brands grow smarter with SEO that starts with strategic keyword analysis. By understanding search intent, trends, and real user problems, we find the terms that actually drive traffic and conversions—not just clicks.

Book a FREE call with us

If you want to learn more about our services, visit the Asian Hustle Solutions website at asianhustlenetwork.com/services/

  • 2 min read