The Division of Games at the University of Utah is delighted to welcome Professor Dae Hong Kim this Fall to the faculty at the Utah Asia Campus as an associate professor, lecturer. An accomplished educator, media artist, and researcher, Professor Kim brings nearly two decades of experience at the intersection of game development, media art, and interdisciplinary innovation.

Professor Kim has held prominent academic and leadership positions throughout his career, including serving as Associate Professor and Department Chair of Digital Arts at the Seoul Institute of the Arts, where he pioneered Korea’s first university-level courses in Unreal Engine and Unity. He also played a central role in global collaboration through Culturehub, where he integrated art and technology education with worldwide partners.

In addition to his academic leadership, Dae Hong has directed numerous cutting-edge research and creative projects. His work ranges from developing a metaverse immersive theater project and creating a digital version of the Korean haegeum instrument, to designing serious games for stroke rehabilitation now used in hospitals worldwide. He has also spearheaded workshops and media art programs at the National Asia Culture Center, equipping artists with skills in interactive media and game engine technology.

Professor Kim holds a Master of Entertainment Technology from Carnegie Mellon University and is a Ph.D. candidate in Electrical & Computer Engineering at Seoul National University, where his research focuses on artificial intelligence for games. He is an Unreal Authorized Instructor, a credential granted directly by Epic Games that affirms his internationally recognized expertise in Unreal Engine education. He is also a Unity Korea Master Instructor, further underscoring his leadership in game engine education.

Michael Young, Chair of the Division of Games, says ““We are thrilled to welcome Dae Hong to the Division of Games at the Utah Asia Campus. His extraordinary blend of expertise in game development, media art, and research will enrich our students’ education and expand our global impact. Professor Kim’s pioneering spirit and commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration align perfectly with our vision for the Division, and we are excited to see the new opportunities his presence will create for our community.”