about
I'm a developer who loves creating intuitive, accessible, and scalable web applications. I focus on building well-structured codebases and crafting thoughtful user experiences that balance performance, usability, and design.
Right now, I'm maintaining and growing Ohayo! Hongchan, the commercial Japanese learning platform I launched from scratch. I work closely with the CEO, digging into analytics data to understand learner behaviour, prioritise the roadmap, and deliver the features our users ask for.
In the past, I've built AI-powered tools at a scaling AI startup and shipped core features as part of another product-focused startup team in a product-focused startup. Before transitioning into software development, I worked as an account executive at a digital ad agency, honing my communication skills. Additionally, I spent a year leading a weekly developer study group, sharing knowledge and mentoring aspiring IT engineers.
When I'm not at the computer, I enjoy working out in the gym and hanging out with my wife with a cup of coffeecoffee
experience
- Dec 2024 —
presentLead Software Developer · Nabi & CoLed the development of a commercial Japanese language learning platform from scratch, now serving 1,500+ monthly active users.
- React
- Next.js
- TypeScript
- Tailwind CSS
- Shadcn UI
- NodeJS
- PostgreSQL
- Neon
- Prisma
- Zod
- React Query
- Vercel
- Auth.js
- Amazon S3
- Amazon CloudFront
- Feb 2025 —
Apr 2025Full Stack Developer (Internship) · MiraServed as a core developer in building a productivity web app at a startup, driving two-way data sync, secure authentication, and state management improvements while integrating real-time APIs and documenting workflows.
- React
- Next.js
- JavaScript
- TypeScript
- Tailwind CSS
- Shadcn UI
- Auth0
- Supabase
- NodeJS
- Express.js
- Zod
- Zustand
- React Query
- Jun 2021 —
Nov 2022Software Engineer · Coxwave, Inc.Worked as a front-end focused full-stack engineer at an AI startup, building scalable AI-powered applications and internal tools, with hands-on involvement in design systems, platform architecture, and product demos.
- React
- Next.js
- JavaScript
- TypeScript
- Tailwind CSS
- MongoDB
- NodeJS
- Vercel
- SWR
- Apr 2019 —
Apr 2020Account Executive · Macbee Planet, Inc.Served as the main point of contact for clients. Collaborated with a range of online media to accomplish client KPIs. Regularly reviewed analytics to make adjustments as needed. Created and delivered tailored presentations to prospective clients to showcase the company’s products and services.
projects
Ohayo! HongchanA commercial Japanese learning platform built from scratch, now serving 1,500+ monthly active users with interactive comics and study features.
- React
- Next.js
- TypeScript
- Tailwind CSS
- Shadcn UI
- NodeJS
- PostgreSQL
- Neon
- Prisma
- Zod
- React Query
- Vercel
- Auth.js
- Amazon S3
- Amazon CloudFront
MiraA natural‑language scheduling assistant integrated with Google Calendar, enabling users to manage events by typing plain English (e.g. “Move my meeting to 2pm”). Worked on bidirectional calendar synchronization, OAuth flow, and end-to-end testing.
- React
- Next.js
- JavaScript
- TypeScript
- Tailwind CSS
- Shadcn UI
- NodeJS
- Express.js
- Zustand
- React Query
- Supabase
- Auth0
- Vercel
HamaAn AI-powered web application for erasing objects from an image. The application was sold to Sandoll Group in March 2023.
- TypeScript
- React
- Next.js
- Tailwind CSS
- Vercel
- MongoDB
EnterpixA web platform for AI art curation and image generation. The application was sold to Sandoll Group in March 2023.
- TypeScript
- React
- Next.js
- Tailwind CSS
- Vercel
testimonials
"Outside of his technical expertise, he was a pleasure to work with and a good human being in general. He was both open to giving and receiving feedback which is always appreciated. I am happy to recommend Owen to any organisation and am sure they will benefit from working with him!"
Eric XuCo-Founder & CEO, Mira
"I think Owen's passion for work, and his consistent demonstration of initiative and resourcefulness is really important to a well functioning team. I have no doubt that Owen will be a tremendous asset to any team he joins. His technical ability, collaborative mindset, and strong work ethic make him stand out as a developer."
Alex MeloccoCo-Founder & CTO, Mira
"I have had the pleasure of working with Owen for the past two years, and have been consistently impressed with his work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to deliver high-quality products. He is a team player, and is always willing to go the extra mile to help his colleagues."
Kyle KoSoftware Engineer, Nexon Korea
"The part that I value the most about Owen is his attitude toward work and his personality. If he has to do something, he tends to be obsessed with it and finish it within the deadline. Because of his meticulous personality, the results are also very complete."
Jongsik KimCo-founder & CTO, Neer
"Owen's ambition and self-motivation are truly inspiring, impacting everyone around him. His lifestyle and mindset towards continuous learning and coding have had a profound impact on me and everyone around him."
Hyun ParkGraduate, Master of IT, UTS
"Owen’s prior experience as a developer was instrumental to the success of our team project. His exceptional coding and refactoring skills, coupled with his ability to efficiently draft and share comprehensive project plans and roadmaps, demonstrated his outstanding leadership abilities."
Suji LeeData Insights Analyst (R&D), Samsung Electronics
"Owen's dedication, patience, and supportive nature made him an outstanding mentor, greatly enriching my academic development and inspiring me to strive for higher standards."
Jun LimAssistant Project Manager, POSCO Australia
"The company and colleagues working with Owen are incredibly fortunate. He is well-prepared both technically and professionally enough to start his career and settle down in various workplaces. His passion and dedication make him a valuable asset to any team."
Hyemin ChoBusiness Analyst, Samsung Australia