Applications are invited for appointment as Associate Professor on tenure terms or Tenure-Track Assistant Professor in Korean Studies with a primary focus in Trans-Asian Studies in the School of Modern Languages and Cultures (Ref.: 533908), to commence on September 1, 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. Appointment as Assistant Professor will be made on a three-year fixed-term basis, with the possibility of renewal and with consideration for tenure before the expiry of a second three-year fixed-term contract.
Applicants should possess a Ph.D. degree in a related field. The position seeks a specialist in Korean Studies with a transnational and global perspective encompassing the early modern, modern, and contemporary periods. Preferred fields of expertise include, but are not limited to: history, cultural studies, film and media studies, and gender and sexuality studies. We particularly welcome candidates with additional strengths in emerging fields such as future technologies (including digital media and artificial intelligence) and transcultural communication.
The appointee must demonstrate advanced proficiency in Korean and will be expected to conduct rigorous research, excel in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, and fulfill administrative responsibilities for the Korean Studies Programme, including language courses. Candidates whose expertise can foster interdisciplinary collaboration with SMLC’s Global and Area Studies (GLAS) programme and the Department of History and Art History are strongly encouraged to apply.
HKU provides robust support for humanities research featuring comprehensive library resources; competitive research grants from the University and Research Grants Council of Hong Kong; and funding for research travel and teaching relief. The annual teaching load is three courses. The Faculty of Arts ranks first in Asia for Arts and Humanities (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025). Further information about the Korean Studies Programme is available at https://korean.hku.hk. Enquiries may be directed to Professor Su Yun Kim, Programme Director at suyunkim@hku.hk.
A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, together with contract-end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme at 15% of basic salary for fixed-term appointment. Other benefits include annual leave and professional leave, medical benefits, and free access to on-campus gyms and libraries. Housing benefits will be provided as applicable.
The University only accepts online applications for the above post. Applicants should apply online and upload a cover letter (maximum two pages) outlining research plans and teaching qualifications, an up-to-date C.V., a writing sample, a teaching portfolio including past materials and evaluations, and three one-page course proposals for potential offerings. Three reference letters should be sent directly by the referees to smlcsena@hku.hk. Review of applications will commence as soon as possible and continue until February 28, 2026 or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.
The University is committed to diversity and inclusivity. The Faculty of Arts expressly encourages qualified persons of all genders to apply
