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Dr. Seungtai Peter Kim, M.D., Ph.D., M.B.A., a distinguished psychiatrist and esteemed leader in medical education, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2025, at the age of 85. Born in Seoul, Korea on October 8, 1939, Dr. Kim dedicated his life to the field of psychiatry, profoundly impacting countless individuals through his compassionate care and visionary leadership. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Dr. Ok Suk Mary Kim, MD, with whom he shared a deep, personal, and professional partnership. Together, they raised two children: John, who also preceded his death, and their daughter Katherine. Dr. Kim graduated from Seoul National University College of Medicine with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. He went on to receive his Ph.D. in Medical Science-Psychiatry from Toho/ New York University Gradate School of Medicine, and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Hawaii College of Business Administration. Dr. Kim’s illustrious career encompassed several prominent positions. He served in various positions as faculty member and physician at NYU School of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, and University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine. Additionally, he held the position of Director of Psychiatry at the Samsung-Johns Hopkins Medical Center in Seoul, Korea, fostering international collaborations in mental health. Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Kim and his wife were deeply committed to community service. He served for two terms as President of the Korean-American Medical association of Hawaii. He and his wife were dedicated members of the Honolulu Hibiscus Lions Club, where Dr. Kim served as past President. They made significant charitable contributions to programs aimed at training Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) and medical assistants, enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality. Dr Kim worked tirelessly to support various community initiatives. In his later years, Dr. Kim found joy in the company of his nephew, Daniel Kim, and his family: niece-in-law Myung Eun, grand-nephew Ian, and grand-niece Magdalene. He cherished home cooked family meals and took immense delight in his role as "Big Grandpa" to little Magdalene, creating lasting memories filled with love and laughter. Dr. Kim’s kind spirit and voracious appetite for meaningful social connections touched the lives of many. His legacy of compassion, dedication, and service will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A celebration of Dr. Kim’s life will be held on Tuesday, April 1, at Sacred Heart Church – Punahou, located at 1701 Wilder Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96822. The vigil will begin at 9:30 AM, followed by a funeral mass at 10:30 AM. He will be laid to rest at Diamond Head Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the charitable programs Dr. Kim and his wife passionately supported, continuing their legacy of enhancing healthcare education and community service. Arrangements Provided By: Nuuanu Memorial Park & Mortuary LLC |
