Dr. Kang has been president of KORDI since 2008. He is also Director or Gyeongbuk Institute of Marine Bio-Industry, Chairman of the Korea Oceanography Committee and Chairman of the President's Council of Environment Research Organisations.

Hegraduated from the University of Korea in 1976 with a BSc and in 1978 with an MSc. He then carried out his doctoral studies in France, where he obtained his PhD in Marine Mineral Resourcesfrom Orleans University in 1984.

During his time at KORDI (1990-present), he has been Head of Mineral Resource Research (1990-92), Deep Ocean Exploration Project Director (1992-97), Marine Geology Research Vice Director (1995-96), Head of the Marine Information Device Supporting Division (2000-01) and Head of the Innovation Division (2007-08).

Dr. Kang has published 5 books and has received the National Bronze Industrial Award and the Presidential Award.