The second Vice President of South Korea, serving from 1951 to 1952, Kim Seong-su influenced the nation through ventures in journalism, education, and textile manufacturing. Born in 1891 in North Jeolla, he navigated the complexities of the Japanese occupation by blending entrepreneurial activity with institutional development, eventually leaving a lasting imprint on the country's social and political structures.
Early Education and Influences
During his youth, Kim studied classical texts including the Mingxin baojian and the works of Confucius. He attended the Yeonghaksuk school in Changpyeong and Geumho School in Gunsan before moving to Japan. In 1914, he graduated from Waseda University, having focused his studies on political science and economics. These formative years exposed him to western political thought and educational administration.
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In 1915, Kim assumed management of the Central School, later elevating it to a formal institution. By 1919, he diversified his interests, establishing the Seoul Spinning and Weaving Company. Alongside his industrial pursuits, he entered the media sector, founding The Dong-A Ilbo in the early 1920s. His involvement in these enterprises facilitated his public profile, leading him to advocate for industrial development and the eventual establishment of a national university foundation.
Institutional Foundations
Kim sought to bolster Korean private education throughout the 1930s. He acquired the struggling Boseong Professional School in 1932, serving as its principal. Following liberation, he transformed this foundation into Korea University in 1946. This effort was central to his goal of fostering a private, national educational system, ensuring that academic institutions could sustain domestic expertise independent of colonial structures.
Political Career and Later Years
Following the assassination of Song Jin-woo in 1945, Kim took a leadership role within the Hanmin Party. His political career reached its zenith in May 1951 when he was elected Vice President. However, his tenure proved short-lived due to irreconcilable policy disagreements with President Syngman Rhee, prompting his resignation in 1952. Kim died in Seoul in 1955, and his legacy is marked by the Inchon Award, established in 1987.
Fast facts
- Born: 1891, North Jeolla
- Died: 1955, Seoul
- Education: Waseda University
- Political Position: Vice President of South Korea (1951–1952)
- Key Institutions Founded: Korea University, The Dong-A Ilbo
- Religion: Methodism
- Citizenship: South Korea
- Art name: Inchon
Questions readers ask
What was Kim Seong-su's primary role in Korean education?
He founded Korea University and served as the principal of the Central School and Boseong Professional School.
Why did Kim resign from the vice presidency?
He resigned in 1952 after one year in office due to significant political differences with President Syngman Rhee.
