A New Era for USC: Can Beong-Soo Kim Steer the Ship After Turbulent Times?
The University of Southern California (USC) has officially welcomed Beong-Soo Kim as its 13th president, marking a new chapter for an institution that’s been no stranger to headlines in recent years. But here’s where it gets intriguing: Kim steps into this role after a period of significant upheaval, following the departure of Carol Folt, whose tenure was marked by student protests, fiscal concerns, and the lingering shadow of past scandals.
Kim, who assumed the interim presidency in February 2025, is no newcomer to USC. Previously serving as the university’s senior vice president, general counsel, and law school lecturer, he brings a wealth of experience from both the academic and legal worlds. His background also includes stints at Kaiser Permanente and as a federal prosecutor for the Central District of California, giving him a unique perspective on leadership and problem-solving.
One of Kim’s first challenges? Tackling a staggering $200 million deficit, a move that unfortunately led to hundreds of layoffs. In a candid conversation with LAist, Kim acknowledged the difficulty of these decisions but emphasized their necessity. “We’re now in a much stronger financial position,” he shared, highlighting the university’s renewed focus on future opportunities.
But here’s the part most people miss: Amid the financial turmoil, USC is also looking ahead with ambitious plans. From hosting a National Archives exhibition of founding documents to playing a key role in the 2028 L.A. Olympics, the university is positioning itself as a hub of cultural and academic vitality. And let’s not forget the upcoming opening of the Lucas Museum, a stone’s throw from campus, celebrating the legacy of Trojan alum George Lucas.
Kim’s vision extends beyond these high-profile events. He’s particularly passionate about leveraging artificial intelligence responsibly, a topic that’s both exciting and fraught with ethical questions. “It’s an incredible time to be in this position,” he noted, underscoring the university’s commitment to innovation while maintaining academic excellence and open dialogue.
But here’s where it gets controversial: USC has largely avoided the conflicts with the Trump administration that have plagued other institutions, including the University of California system. How will Kim navigate this relationship moving forward? He stresses the importance of engagement—not just with the federal government, but with foundations, the private sector, and community groups. “Universities can’t operate in isolation,” he explained, a sentiment echoed by USC board chair Suzanne Nora Johnson during their joint interview with LAist.
As the conversation abruptly ended due to a board meeting, one question lingered: Can Kim’s collaborative approach truly bridge the gaps between academia, politics, and the broader community? And this is where we turn to you: What do you think? Is USC on the right track, or are there challenges Kim hasn’t fully addressed? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the dialogue going.
