Calvin News

As the Kuyper Conference convenes in South Korea in 2027, Calvin University and Calvin Theological Seminary will honor one of the nation's most influential Christian scholars and public intellectuals. Dr. Bong-ho Son has been named the 2027 recipient of the Kuyper Prize for Excellence in Reformed Theology and Public Life, recognizing a lifetime devoted to demonstrating how Reformed theology can faithfully shape every sphere of society.

Dr. Son will receive the award during the 2027 Kuyper Conference, held February 25–27 at Soongsil University in Seoul, South Korea. The award will be presented during the conference banquet on Friday, February 26.

Established in 1996, the Kuyper Prize honors scholars and community leaders whose lives and work embody the vision of Dutch theologian, journalist, educator, and statesman Abraham Kuyper by demonstrating faithful Christian engagement in society, culture, politics, education, business, and other areas of public life. The prize and conference are made possible through the generosity of the late Rimmer and Ruth de Vries. 

For the 2027 prize, Calvin University and Calvin Theological Seminary solicited nominations from a broad range of individuals familiar with Christian scholarship, leadership, and public engagement. Following the nomination process, the Kuyper Prize Selection Committee reviewed the nominees and selected Son as the 2027 recipient. The committee includes the president of Calvin University and the president of Calvin Theological Seminary, along with other representatives who share the committee's responsibility for selecting the recipient. The award is an independent recognition of Christian scholarship and public leadership.

Shaping generations of leaders

Few individuals have done more to introduce and apply Abraham Kuyper's Neo-Calvinist worldview in South Korea than Dr. Son. A pioneering philosopher, Christian ethicist, and professor emeritus, he has spent decades helping Christians understand that every area of life belongs to God and should be guided by biblical principles of justice, honesty, stewardship, and human dignity.

Inspired by Kuyper's principle of sphere sovereignty, Dr. Son has consistently challenged Christians to live out their faith beyond the walls of the church. His scholarship became the foundation for practical action as he led anti-corruption efforts, championed economic justice, strengthened civic responsibility, advanced humanitarian causes, and helped establish many of South Korea's most influential Protestant civic movements. Through his teaching, public service, writing, and advocacy, he has shaped generations of leaders while demonstrating that Christian conviction and public engagement belong together.

"Abraham Kuyper challenged Christians to recognize that every square inch of creation belongs to Christ. Dr. Bong-ho Son has faithfully lived out that calling throughout his entire career," said Greg Elzinga, president of Calvin University. "His scholarship has strengthened the church, his leadership has served Korean society, and his unwavering commitment to biblical justice and integrity has influenced generations of Christian leaders. We are deeply honored to recognize his extraordinary legacy with the 2027 Kuyper Prize."

Living out a deep theological conviction

Dr. Son taught social philosophy, civic ethics, and citizenship education at Seoul National University for two decades, mentoring countless students who have gone on to become educators, civic leaders, pastors, and public servants. Beyond academia, he has served in leadership roles across organizations focused on Christian ethics, humanitarian relief, economic justice, education, and public accountability. His influence also extends through more than 100 scholarly publications and dozens of books that have helped establish the intellectual foundations of Christian social ethics in South Korea.

"Dr. Son has shown the world what happens when deep theological conviction meets faithful public witness," said Julius Medenblik, president of Calvin Theological Seminary. "His life reminds us that Reformed theology is not simply something we study—it is something we live. By bringing Christian ethics into public life with humility, wisdom, and courage, he has become one of the most influential voices for faithful Christian engagement in Korea and beyond. It is a privilege to honor him with the Kuyper Prize."

Past recipients of the Kuyper Prize include distinguished theologians, philosophers, diplomats, educators, authors, and national leaders whose work has transformed society through faithful Christian engagement. Dr. Son now joins that distinguished legacy.

For more than half a century, Dr. Son has demonstrated that the gospel is not only proclaimed in words but also lived through faithful service, ethical leadership, and courageous public engagement. His life's work stands as a powerful expression of Abraham Kuyper's enduring conviction that there is not one square inch of creation over which Christ does not declare, "Mine."

About the Kuyper Prize

Named after Abraham Kuyper, the Kuyper Prize for Excellence in Reformed Theology and Public Life recognizes individuals whose scholarship, leadership, and public service exemplify the Reformed tradition's vision for faithful Christian engagement in every sphere of society. Established in 1996, the award celebrates leaders whose work continues to advance Christian thought and cultural engagement throughout the world.

About Calvin Theological Seminary and Calvin University

Since 1876, Calvin Theological Seminary and Calvin University have stood as beacons of Christ's promise to renew all things. Founded by the Christian Reformed Church leaders in Grand Rapids, Michigan, both institutions have evolved from humble beginnings into globally recognized centers of Reformed education.

Calvin University has emerged as a premier Christian higher education institution, integrating faith and learning to equip students worldwide to think deeply, act justly, and live wholeheartedly in every sphere and sector. Meanwhile, Calvin Theological Seminary has grown into a leader in whole-person education, preparing highly trained pastors and leaders to serve the Church and beyond. 

Together, they celebrate 150 years of shared heritage rooted in deep faith and commitment to God's work. These institutions are a testament to love and hope in a broken world dedicated to nurturing minds and hearts for the glory of God's kingdom.