Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Kun Sup Hyun
Kun Sup Hyun, a pioneering chemical engineer, visionary leader, and dedicated mentor, passed away leaving behind a remarkable legacy in science, industry, and international collaboration. His life was defined by curiosity, global perspective, mentorship, and a passion for advancing technology and education.
Dr. Hyun graduated at the top of his class from Seoul High School and first in his graduating class at Seoul National University, earning a B.S. in Chemical Engineering. His early career included service as an Air Force Weather Officer, reflecting his commitment to both science and public service. In 1962, he continued his academic journey in the United States, receiving his M.S. and Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Missouri, Columbia.
Dr. Hyun’s professional journey spanned continents and industries. He contributed significantly to The Dow Chemical Company, where, as a scientist, he was known as a problem solver who led advancements in polymer processing, extrusion technology, and application engineering. His work resulted in more than 13 U.S. and international patents, 33 published papers, four edited books, and numerous technical innovations that shaped the field. He spent nearly 35 years at Dow, ultimately attaining the position of Distinguished Fellow—Dow’s highest technical position—and serving as Global Technical Leader of Polymer Processing Technology. A visionary leader, he built Dow’s Polymer Processing Technology Team, which remained influential long after his retirement. Kun also received Dow’s Genesis Award, a prestigious internal corporate honor recognizing exceptional people management, leadership, and staff development. One of the company’s most sought-after internal distinctions, it honors employees who excel at fostering talent and cultivating team growth. In recognition of his distinguished legacy, Dow created the Kun Sup Hyun Award, presented to Dow scientists and engineers for distinguished service.
After Dow, Dr. Hyun moved into academia and institute leadership: President of the Polymer Processing Institute (PPI) from 2001-2007; research professor in the Otto H. York Department of Chemical, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Engineering at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT); and visiting professorships at institutions in Korea, China, and Japan. He was instrumental in mentoring Ph.D. students in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, and applied physics, fostering the next generation of scientific talent. Through the Bushitol Corporation, as Chairman and Co-Founder, he helped Korean small and medium enterprises enter the US market.
Dr. Hyun's dedication to the global scientific community was evident through his extensive travels and lecturing abroad, and his active roles in professional societies including the International Society for Plastics Engineers (ISPE) and the Korean-American Scientists and Engineers Association (KSEA), where he served as President and Vice President. His prestigious honors include the Presidential Award in Science & Technology (Republic of Korea), the Proud Koreans Overseas Award (Korean American Foundation), and the Bruce Maddock Award for technical excellence.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Hyun was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his beloved spouse, Sung Za Hyun; his daughter, Eileen Kim of Boston (husband David, son Alexander); his son, Phillip Hyun of Lake Oswego, OR (wife Grace Lee, sons Quincy and Reiley, daughter Ruby); and his son, Paul Hyun of Brooklyn, NY (wife Lily Chang, daughter Samantha, and son Thomas). He cherished his family deeply.
Dr. Hyun's legacy endures through his scientific contributions, the many students and colleagues he inspired, and the global bridges he built in the pursuit of knowledge. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the international scientific community.
A memorial service in celebration of his life will be held in Boston and online September 12, 2026. Please email [email protected] for more information.