Cheehyung Harrison Kim

Associate Professor, History

Dr. Cheehyung Harrison Kim is a historian at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa whose teaching is shaped by a transnational perspective and a deep commitment to dialogue, empathy, and student growth. In his classroom, complex global issues come alive through dynamic, discussion-driven inquiry where questions about places like North Korea become opportunities for students to interrogate assumptions, reflect on their own experiences, and consider the many ways people navigate power and constraint in everyday life.

Guided by a philosophy of “equate, empathize, and empower,” Dr. Kim fosters learning environments where critical thinking and open expression are central. Students are encouraged not only to analyze the past, but to connect it to their own lives and to recognize human resilience and creativity across contexts. This approach transforms the study of history into an active, reflective process grounded in both intellectual rigor and personal engagement.

Dr. Kim also emphasizes creativity and research as essential components of learning, inspiring students to pursue original, self-directed projects. Many go on to earn competitive research awards and develop work that bridges academic inquiry with contemporary global issues. Through close mentorship, Dr. Kim supports students in translating classroom ideas into meaningful research and long-term academic or professional pursuits, guiding students toward a wide range of career pathways in law, education, public policy, and beyond. 

“Dr. Kim is absolutely wonderful. I was anxious at the beginning of the semester because of how much time and work this course demands (if I want to earn a good grade, that is) and Dr. Kim has thoughtfully guided us through the semester. He always has interesting insights to add into our discussions, asks questions that encourage thought and careful consideration, and is supportive of our research and passions. The pace that Dr. Kim set for the semester has been easy to follow and has enabled me to more thoughtfully research my topic. Because of the checkpoints he set throughout the semester, we have not been left to flounder and write our final essay in the last two days before the due date. Thanks so much Dr. Kim!”

“This class taught me how to quickly and effectively process the main argument and most important supporting pieces of evidence in history studies, a skill that I have already applied to my reviews of historiography across a variety of subjects. This training I will not only remember, but will constantly apply to my own work moving forward.”