Kung Sun Oh was the first professor of dermatology in Korea. Born in 1878 to a family of moderate means, he first gained employment in government service. In his 20's, he went to America for his college and medical education. On his return to Korea, he took up medical missionary work. In 1912, he joined the Faculty of Severance Union Medical College, later becoming dean. His clinic at Severance Hospital was among the busiest. He was one of the first Koreans to have foreign training and the first to study dermatology in Europe. When he died at the age of 78, he was among the most respected men in his country.