Sang-Hyop Lee

Dr. Sang-Hyop Lee is a Professor in the Department of Economics at the University of Hawaii at Manoa (UHM), where he has held academic positions since 1999, progressing from Assistant Professor (1999-2006) to Associate Professor (2006-2012), and Professor since 2012. He served as Chair of the Department of Economics from 2020 to 2024 and previously as Director of the Center for Korean Studies (2013-2018). His primary affiliations include the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization (UHERO) and the Center for Korean Studies. Dr. Lee holds a Ph.D. in Economics from Michigan State University (1998), alongside MA and BA degrees in Economics from Seoul National University (1988 and 1986 respectively).

His research focuses on population dynamics, labor markets, and social welfare policies, particularly in Asian economies. Key areas include aging societies, demographic dividends, fiscal sustainability, and the economic implications of low fertility. Dr. Lee leads the National Transfer Accounts (NTA) global network, coordinating research in over 100 countries. He has authored or edited over a dozen books, including Aging, Economic Growth, and Old-Age Security in Asia and Social Policies in an Age of Austerity.

Notable awards include the 2019 Presidential Personal Commendation from the Republic of Korea. His advisory roles include chairing 24 doctoral committees and serving on numerous boards, including the Center on Aging and the Friends of the Library. He has secured major grants from institutions like the Asian Development Bank, Korea Development Institute, and UN agencies. His work bridges academic research with policy impact, addressing global challenges in aging populations and economic development.