Author: Wan Hee Kim
Born: 24 May 1926
Died: 24 May 2011
Bio: Dr. Wan Hee Kim, known as the father of the Korean electronics industry and a recipient of the U.S. Bronze Star Medal, died on May 24 in New York City. Dr. Kim was also the first Korean and youngest person (in 1963) to be granted tenure as a full professor at Columbia University. Over the past fifty years, Dr. Kim laid the foundation for, and was the key figure in the development and promotion of, the Korean electronics industry, from its infancy to a world leader. Public condolences from President Lee of Korea and other prominent politicians and business persons were conveyed to his family. Born in Osan, South Korea, Dr. Kim graduated from Seoul National University in 1950 and earned his Ph.D in electrical engineering at the University of Utah. Dr. Kim joined the faculty of Columbia University as a professor of electrical engineering and computer science in 1957 and taught electrical engineering and computer science for 21 years. His academic achievements include authoring numerous scientific articles in leading publications and two graduate level text books. His honors include John Simon Guggenheim and National Science Foundation fellowship. At the request of President Park Chung Hee, Dr. Kim left a tenured professorship at Columbia to assist the Korean government in the development of the electronics industry. Dr. Kim authored the fundamental national policies for the Korean government and economy relating to the development of the electronics industry. He is responsible for establishing the Korean R&D Institute and the Electronic Times publication. Due to their historical significance, many of his letters from President Park were donated by Dr. Kim to the Presidential Archives. In addition to the Chairmanship of the Electronic Industries Association of Korea and Korea Electronics Industries Cooperative, Dr. Kim has held numerous prominent positions relating to the electronics industry in Korea and in Asia, including Chairman of the Korean National Institute of Electronic Technology and President of the Asian Electronic Union formed by 14 Pacific Rim countries. He is a recipient of the U.S.-Asia Institute Achievement Medal awarded to outstanding individuals of Asian background who have made a significant contribution to the U.S.-Asia relationship. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Chung Sook, a daughter, Millie, son, Richard, daughter-in-law, Terri, and grandchildren, Brandon, Marisa, Isabelle and Pierce.