Seyoon Kim
Associate Dean for the Korean Doctor of Ministry Program and Professor of New Testament

Equipping the Korean Church

Fuller professor Seyoon Kim has a passion for building up the global church in two important ways: “I love doing scholarly research and writing on biblical studies in a faith-affirming environment,” he shares, “and I love teaching students from various countries who can bring theological and spiritual renewal to their evangelical churches.”

As associate dean for the Korean Doctor of Ministry program and professor of New Testament, Dr. Kim pursues both.  He has written numerous books and articles, including most recently, Christ and Caesar  (Eerdmans, 2008), a discussion of empire in the writings of Paul and Luke.  And Kim is currently working on a commentary on 1 and 2 Thessalonians for the Word Biblical Commentary series, as well as already envisioning one of his next books.  “Paul’s relationship to Jesus is the topic to which I return again and again,” he explains.  “I hope very much that before long I can produce a comprehensive monograph on it.”

At the present time, however, Kim keeps busy overseeing the Korean DMin program, a Korean-language professional degree, which Fuller has offered since 1995.  The program is dedicated to training pastors in Korea, North America, and the global mission field, growing their skills in biblical exegesis, theological reflection, social action, and pastoral care.  Since its inception, the Korean DMin program has educated more than 1,500 Korean pastors.

In addition to providing this ministry training, Kim also believes the program encourages challenging personal theological reflection for Korean leaders.  Kim notes that many pastors encounter the gospel in fresh ways while at Fuller, which, in turn, brings a renewed fervor for the historic Christian faith to their congregations.  “The Korean DMin program fulfills a vital role in promoting healthy renewal and sound growth in Korean churches,” he affirms, “both in Korea and in North America.”