University of Southern California Names New President

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The University of Southern California has named Beong-Soo Kim as its 13th president after he served in an interim capacity since July. Kim, 53, previously served as senior vice president and general counsel at USC and was a lecturer at the USC Gould School of Law. He faces challenges including pressure from the Trump administration to join a higher education compact promoting conservative ideas, which Kim rejected.

Why it matters

The appointment of Kim as USC's new president comes at a pivotal time for the university, which has found itself at the center of major debates over campus culture and free speech. Kim's leadership will be closely watched as he navigates these complex issues.

The details

Kim was named president after a unanimous vote by the USC board of trustees, reflecting 'widespread confidence in Beong's leadership,' according to board chair Suzanne Nora Johnson. In a brief interview, Kim said he is focused on providing value in a USC degree, ensuring the school continues important research, and making sure 'all of our students and faculty can express their viewpoints and engage with other viewpoints respectfully.' In October, Kim faced an early test of his leadership when the Trump administration asked USC to sign on to a proposal that would have given them funding preferences if they agreed to concessions like capping international enrollment and freezing tuition. Kim joined other university leaders in rejecting the proposal, writing that it would 'undermine the same values of free inquiry and academic excellence that the compact seeks to promote.'

• Kim has led USC on an interim basis since July 2025.
• Kim was named the university's 13th president on February 4, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Kim will officially take over as USC's president in the coming months, inheriting a range of challenges including debates over campus culture and free speech.