Junghoon Rio Kim
Associate Professor of Christian Studies, Assistant Dean of Asian Studies
At a Glance
Biography
Junghoon Kim serves as Assistant Dean of Asian Studies and Associate Professor of Christian Studies at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He had served Asian Studies as academic coordinator at Midwestern since 2013.
He earned his Bachelor in Architectural Design from Handong Global University and a Master of Divinity from Chongshin Theological Seminary in South Korea. He also holds a Doctor of Education from Midwestern Seminary.
Before being called into full-time ministry, Dr. Kim served Auckland Korean Student Council as a chief leader to evangelize local Asians in Auckland, New Zealand and worked for CODA Architectural Company as a staff designer for 3 years.
Dr. Kim served as a director of youth group and the executive assistant at Oryun Church, as the director of education and the executive pastor at Changsung Church, and as the worship and education director at Kansas Woori Church. Dr. Kim’s ministry interest is on youth ministry. In particular, he has focused on a ministry role of connecting Korean American youth groups who suffer from cultural and generational gaps.
Dr. Kim is married to Heajun Cho and has two cheerful children: Julianne and Olivia.
Education
B.S. in Architectural Design in Handong Global University
M.Div. in Chongshin Presbyterian Seminary
Ed.D. Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
Faculty Q&A
The “For the Church” vision resonates deeply with the ministry philosophy I have held since the moment I was called to pastoral ministry. It is a vision I have long dreamed of—one that has been further shaped and clarified through my time studying, ministering, and teaching at Midwestern.
This vision extends beyond the local church and informs how I view both physical and virtual classrooms—as sacred spaces where holistic, Scripture-centered formation takes place. I am committed to serving and teaching students as ministers who are grounded in the Bible, shaped in their affections, and directed in their will. Every aspect of my teaching is intentionally designed to nurture future leaders who will serve with biblical conviction and pastoral care, wherever God calls them.
What I love about teaching at MBTS is seeing students with different values and perspectives gradually come together around what the Bible teaches. The dialogue that happens—shaped by diverse minds and personalities—is always both challenging and energizing.
Throughout the course, students will identify root issues, explore concrete solutions, and design and implement a ministry program that can be applied in real-world settings. I’ve received feedback that reflects real impact—proof that what we’re doing truly matters. In the end, it’s a small but meaningful way we serve the vision of For the Church.
