Dr. Koh’s Family Parenting Method

Education of Dr. Koh's Family: Role Models in Raising High-Achieving American-Born Children

Dr. Koh Kwang-rim is renowned in Korea not just for his impressive career but for raising accomplished children. Graduating top of his class from Kyungsung Imperial University (now Seoul National University) in law, Dr. Koh earned his JD from Harvard and a Ph.D. in political science from Rutgers University. His wife, Dr. Jeon Hye-seong, received a full scholarship to study at Boston University while attending Ewha Womans University, later earning PhDs in both sociology and anthropology.

 

Just as distinguished as the parents’ accomplishments, their six children also built notable careers. All graduated from Harvard or Yale. Their eldest son became an associate dean at Harvard’s School of Public Health and served as an Assistant Secretary in the Obama administration. The second son graduated from Harvard and became a physician. Their third son, a former dean of Yale Law School, held the position of Assistant Secretary of State for Human Rights under the Clinton administration and served as Legal Adviser to the U.S. Department of State under the Obama administration. Their eldest daughter, with degrees from both Harvard and MIT, is now a professor at Chung-Ang University, while the second daughter is a chaired professor at Yale Law School. Let’s explore Dr. Koh’s family approach to raising children who have not only excelled academically but also significantly contributed to American society, despite being a foreign family in the U.S.

(Left) Dr. Jeon Hye-seong, (Right) Dr. Koh Kwang-rim, Source: Naver Images

Emphasis on “Virtue Over Talent”

The Koh family embraced the philosophy of “Virtue Over Talent,” which emphasizes character over mere ability. Though they rose in social standing through hard work and intellectual achievements, both parents maintained humility, always considering how to serve society better. This family value of “Virtue Over Talent” was instilled as a core principle for their children, fostering humility and a commitment to serving others. They demonstrated that talent without virtue rarely leads to greatness in society, a lesson their children embodied and have since passed down to their own children.

Leading by Example in Lifelong Learning

Instead of pressuring their children to study, Dr. Koh and Dr. Jeon modeled lifelong learning by spending time at their own desks studying. Dr. Jeon, in particular, set up multiple desks in their home to encourage a learning atmosphere, joining her children in study sessions. Watching their parents commit to learning, the children found it natural to do the same. Many parents today, exhausted after work, may spend time watching TV or on their phones while urging their children to study. However, this often creates resentment toward studying. As Dr. Koh’s story shows, parents’ actions are one of the most influential factors in children’s attitudes. The example set by Dr. Koh and Dr. Jeon during difficult times in their children’s academic paths provided the motivation needed to persevere.

 

The Koh family’s education approach can be considered one of the finest examples in history.
By prioritizing character and demonstrating dedication, Dr. Koh and his wife provide a model
for what parents can do to truly support their children's growth and success.

 

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