Yung Suk Kim is a Korean American New Testament scholar specializing in theories of biblical interpretation and early Christianity. Dr. Kim is Assistant Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity at Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology of Virginia Union University in Richmond. Growing up in Korea, working in overseas countries such as Panama and USA, Kim has learned a great deal about the importance of cross-cultural dialogue. He ended up studying theology in America and teaching in the area of biblical studies. Born in South Korea, Kim holds the following degrees: a PhD degree in the area of New Testament Studies from Vanderbilt University, an M.Div from McCormick Theological Seminary, and a B.A from Kyungpook National University. Dr. Kim is editor of the Journal of Bible and Human Transformation. [1]
Kim’s biblical interpretation is based on critical contextual studies of the Bible and the contemporary life situations. Because of this concern for an ethical reading of the Bible, Kim’s research focuses on the role of the Bible. His approach to biblical theology is none other than critical contextual biblical studies, which critically examines both texts and contexts - written or oral, personal or political. Kim published two books in Pauline studies (Christ's Body in Corinth; Theological Introduction to Paul's Letters). Kim "possesses one of the most original, refreshing, and urgent voices among the rising generation of New Testament theologians. Kim has a rare ability to synthesize various critical approaches in constructing Paul’s theology: historical criticism, sociological analysis, and post-colonial interpretation interact productively." [2] Dr. Kim received a Lilly Theological Scholars Grant in 2011-12 for the research on the Gospel of John. [3]