Professor Young Il Kim is a distinguished academic and researcher in the fields of mechanical engineering and architecture, currently serving as a Professor at the School of Architecture, Seoul National University of Science and Technology. With a career spanning over three decades, he has made significant contributions to HVAC systems, indoor air quality, and building energy simulation. Known for his expertise in sustainable and smart building systems, Professor Kim holds numerous leadership positions in professional societies dedicated to air-conditioning, energy, and smart building innovations. His research has helped advance eco-friendly and energy-efficient technologies in building design. He is currently the Dean of the Graduate School of Housing and Urban Studies, where he is pioneering research on smart urban living. His technical skills and commitment to the integration of environmental considerations into urban design make him a leading figure in sustainable building technologies in Korea and beyond.

Professional Profile

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Education

Professor Kim holds a robust academic background in mechanical engineering, with both B.S. and M.S. degrees from Seoul National University, completed in 1984 and 1986, respectively. He further pursued his studies abroad, obtaining a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan in 1993. This blend of education from top institutions in South Korea and the United States provided him with a broad, international perspective and a rigorous foundation in engineering principles, particularly in thermal systems and environmental control. His academic background underpins his research into complex energy systems and building sustainability. The education he received at these esteemed institutions has been instrumental in shaping his approach to urban sustainability and innovative building systems, and continues to support his contributions to academic and professional communities in Korea and internationally.

Professional Experience

Professor Kim has an extensive career that blends academic research with practical applications in building systems and mechanical engineering. Beginning as a researcher at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, he further honed his expertise as a student researcher at Ford Motor Company and a post-doctoral fellow at the University of Michigan. His career progressed with his role as Center Head at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology, where he was involved in leading critical projects in environmental and building systems research. Since 2005, he has been a Professor at Seoul National University of Science and Technology, actively contributing to both research and education in sustainable architecture. Currently, he serves as Dean of the Graduate School of Housing and Urban Studies, a role in which he oversees research into eco-friendly and smart housing solutions, further cementing his leadership in the academic field.

Research Interests

Professor Kim’s research interests lie primarily in thermal and environmental control within building systems, focusing on innovations in HVAC systems, indoor air quality management, and energy-efficient building design. He is particularly interested in the development of sustainable technologies that reduce energy consumption and improve air quality in buildings. In recent years, his research has expanded to include the “smartification” of urban spaces, exploring how advanced technologies can create more eco-friendly and resilient cities. He is dedicated to addressing the environmental challenges posed by urban growth through smart building systems that prioritize resource efficiency and sustainable design. His research aligns with the global movement toward greener architecture and reflects his commitment to creating healthy, energy-efficient indoor environments.

Research Skills

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Professor Kim has been recognized for his contributions to engineering and sustainable building practices. He has held prestigious roles such as President of the South Korea Chapter of ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) and the Korean Society for Geothermal and Hydrothermal Energy. Additionally, he served as President of the Korea Intelligent Smart Building Association, a position that highlights his influence on the development of smart and energy-efficient building technologies in Korea. These leadership positions, along with various professional recognitions, underscore his commitment to advancing engineering practices in air-conditioning and building energy efficiency. Professor Kim’s accolades reflect his dedication to fostering eco-friendly practices in urban development and his influence as a respected leader in the field of sustainable architecture.