Jaekwon Lee
DVM
Dr. Jaekwon Lee is originally from South Korea. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Seoul National University College of Veterinary Medicine. He began his career as a general practice associate in Seoul, working there for a year before transitioning to emergency medicine, which he has practiced for the past several years.
Early in his career, Dr. Lee met and adopted Nala, an orange female kitten who had been rescued by a good samaritan and brought to the clinic where he was working. Since Nala was only five weeks old when Dr. Lee became fully responsible for her, she was the youngest living being Dr. Lee had ever cared for since turning 21. He thought of Nala as both his youngest sister and his first daughter. Nala was full of character, adoring every human and feline she met throughout her life.
Unfortunately, Nala was diagnosed with the worst form of lymphoma in August 2024. She underwent surgery, chemotherapy, and experienced multiple lymphoma-associated crises including acute pulmonary edema and renal failure caused by infiltration. Unfortunately, Nala passed away in November while struggling with her second episode of acute pulmonary edema.
Nala’s untimely passing had a profound impact on Dr. Lee. Collaborating with fellow Korean veterinarians on complex treatment decisions during Nala's care solidified his dedication to emergency medicine. He began pursuing advanced training to provide the highest standard of care and support clients through their furry family members' most challenging moments.
Dr. Lee’s professional interests include critical care, soft-tissue surgery, and internal medicine, with a focus on respiratory crisis management, transfusion medicine, and renal replacement therapy. In his free time, he enjoys watching KBO League, cheering for the LG Twins (a baseball team owned by the same company known for its plasma TVs and laundry machines), video calling with family across the Pacific, and maintaining his Duolingo streak. He also hopes to resume piano and vocal practice once he can afford a soundproof space and an electric piano.