Member Profile: Min H. Kim

1. What do you do, and how long have you been doing it?

As a professor of computer science at KAIST in South Korea, I have the wonderful opportunity to lead the KAIST Visual Computing Lab (VCLAB). It has been an incredible 12 years since I started this journey back in 2012. My passion lies in advancing computational imaging technologies, particularly in the fields of computer graphics and vision.

2. What was your first job?

Upon finishing my PhD, I began my new job as a postdoctoral researcher at Yale University. There, I had an incredible opportunity to work alongside Prof. Holly Rushmeier. From her, I gained valuable insights into balancing my personal life and collaborating effectively with colleagues, significantly shaping my current lifestyle. My research centered around creating a hyperspectral 3D imaging system and software for digital archiving at the Yale Peabody Museum and the Yale Art Gallery. This experience was truly extraordinary, merging cutting-edge technology with the essential elements of cultural heritage.

3. Where did you complete your formal education?

I completed my PhD in computer science at University College London (UCL). My thesis, titled “High-Fidelity Colour Reproduction for High-Dynamic-Range (HDR) Imaging,” focuses on exploring HDR imaging and display technology. This work helps visual information capture the wide dynamic range of the real world more authentically. This research has provided the foundation for my rewarding career in advanced imaging and graphics.

4. How did you first get involved with ACM SIGGRAPH?

I first discovered ACM SIGGRAPH during my PhD studies at UCL in the Virtual Environments and Computer Graphics (VECG) group, where many researchers and PhD students focus on virtual reality, augmented reality, and computer graphics technology. Alongside my wonderful colleagues, I shared an infectious passion for computer graphics. Their enthusiasm inspired me to immerse myself in this dynamic community and its innovative research.

5. What is your favorite memory of a SIGGRAPH conference?

One of my favorite memories is presenting my very first SIGGRAPH paper back in 2009 as the first author. I felt such a thrill standing on that SIGGRAPH stage in New Orleans, sharing my work with everyone in the audience. That exciting experience truly deepened my commitment to being a part of this amazing community and making strides in the field of computer graphics.

6. Describe a project that you would like to share with the ACM SIGGRAPH community.

I take great pride in the hyperspectral 3D imaging system I developed for SIGGRAPH 2012. Over two years at Yale University, I developed the first system that integrates a hyperspectral camera and a laser 3D scanner, allowing it to capture both visible and invisible spectral data alongside the intricate geometric details of objects. Originally designed for the Yale Peabody Museum, this system exemplifies the extraordinary outcomes of interdisciplinary collaboration, merging advanced imaging technology with the important preservation of cultural heritage.

7. If you could have dinner with one living or non-living person, who would it be and why?

I’m really looking forward to having dinner with my former UCL colleague, Prof. James Tompkin, at Brown University. During my time as a PhD student at UCL, Prof. Tompkin was not just my office mate but also a great friend who shared the same advisor. We had such an enjoyable time exploring the exciting realms of computer graphics together. Although our journeys have led us in different directions since graduation, I truly cherish the chance to reconnect and swap insights about how our field has evolved over time.

Non-Living Person: I would choose my father. He was not only a talented photographer and thoughtful person, but he also shared his passion for art, music, and deep thinking with me. Through him, I discovered photography, which sparked my interest in imaging and visual computing. His loving yet firm guidance has truly helped me become the independent and disciplined person I am today.

8. What is something most people don’t know about you?

Swimming has always been a passion of mine, and I love my morning routine of diving into the pool for two kilometers, which typically takes around forty minutes. Even though I’m not a professional athlete, swimming every day truly helps me feel balanced, focused, and ready to take on the exciting challenges of academic life with a burst of energy.

9. From which single individual have you learned the most in your life? What did they teach you?

Dr. Jan Kautz has been a key influence in my career. My time at UCL was truly impactful, as it shaped my understanding of computer science and inspired me to explore new horizons. He not only steered me in my research but also inspired me to engage in critical thinking and chase innovation with seriousness and ethics. Even today, his motivating presence influences how I conduct research and teach. Even though our paths have taken different directions since he became the Vice President of Learning and Perception Research at NVIDIA, I would cherish the opportunity to reconnect and share insights about how our field has evolved.

10. Is there someone in particular who has influenced your decision to work with ACM SIGGRAPH?

I enjoyed working alongside Prof. Diego Gutierrez at Universidad de Zaragoza. We met together when I was at Yale University, where we became office mates. It’s been a wonderful journey as we turned into long-term collaborators on numerous research projects in the exciting field of computer graphics. Through his friendship, I learned just how valuable it is to share innovative ideas at SIGGRAPH. I feel truly inspired to contribute back to this amazing community, just like he has.

11. What can you point to in your career as your proudest moment?

Since joining KAIST in 2012, I have enjoyed teaching and mentoring numerous talented students. Observing their growth into successful academics and researchers fills my heart with joy. Their accomplishments serve as a daily reminder of the profound influence we educators can have on future generations.