Sungshin University appointed Kim Ho-sung, a professor of media communications, as its 10th president, the school said Monday, filling a vacancy in the top office that lasted nearly eight months.

Kim was chosen by the university’s board of directors Friday to succeed Shim Hwa-jin who was removed from office after she was found guilty of embezzlement in February. The new president formerly led a professors’ association, which called for Shim’s ouster. 

“I will stay humble and keep my ears open to the members of the university and make sure to reflect suggestions in operating the school,” Kim said.

He had previously called for a direct election to choose the president, but decided to accept the school board’s offer for the job, he added.

“It was hard for me to accept my appointment. I do not intend to serve out my four-year term,” he added.

Kim has been teaching at the school since 1987.

(herim@heraldcorp.com)