Professor Hur Yoon-Mi from the College of General Education has been awarded the James Shields Award, the highest honor in the field of
twin studies.

Twin studies focus on discovering the influence of genetics on human behavior and diseases, as well as examining how genetic factors interact
with the environment. Originated from Europe, twin research has predominantly flourished in the United States and Europe. This discipline has significantly contributed to fields such as mental health, psychology, behavioral genetics, and medical science. 

Professor Hur Yoon-Mi received training in twin studies as a behavioral geneticist at the University of Minnesota. Upon returning to Korea, she
conducted research focused on Korean twins, which played a pivotal role in propagating twin studies throughout Asia. Moreover, she ventured
into impoverished regions and conducted twin research, discovering that genetics significantly influence the psychological traits of children
and adolescents in impoverished environments. In recognition of this groundbreaking research, Professor Hur Yoon-Mi was honored with the James Shields Award at the Twins Congress 2023.

Kang Hyun-Jin
Reporter

hyunjinkang1228@kookmin.ac.kr