World’s highest IQ holder affirms Christian faith on X and voices support for Trump
The Catholic Herald• June 23, 2025
YoungHoon Kim, a South Korean scientist reputed to have the highest recorded IQ in the world, has publicly affirmed his Christian faith on social media. On 18 June, Kim posted a message on X declaring: “As the world’s highest IQ record holder, I believe that Jesus Christ is God, the way and the truth and the life.” The post quickly went viral, amassing over 14 million views and more than a quarter of a million “likes” within two days.
Kim claims an IQ of 276 – the highest ever recorded – which has been recognised by multiple organisations. Elite high-IQ societies and record authorities such as the Giga Society, Mensa and the World Memory Championships have all validated Kim’s IQ score, which far exceeds conventional scales. In 2024, he was officially named the world IQ record holder, cementing his status as “the world’s smartest man”.
Following the viral post, the 36-year-old researcher indicated that he saw a higher purpose in the attention. In a follow-up message on 19 June, Kim wrote that he “will use this opportunity to lead many souls to God”, later replying to a commenter with the phrase “Christ is my logic”.
Beyond his social media presence, Kim’s background is both intellectual and entrepreneurial. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Christian theology from Yonsei University in Seoul – an accomplishment he has called one of the best decisions of his life – viewing theology as “the ultimate discipline” that underpins all other fields of study.
Professionally, Kim is the founder and chief executive of NeuroStory, a government-backed initiative in South Korea focused on AI-driven brain health solutions. He also established the United Sigma Intelligence Association (USIA), an international high-intelligence network, and serves on the board of the Lifeboat Foundation, a think tank devoted to mitigating existential risks from advanced technologies.
Alongside proclaiming his faith, Kim has recently entered the sphere of American politics. On 22 June, he posted a widely shared message on X declaring his support for President Donald Trump. He wrote: “As the world’s highest IQ record holder, I recognise that Donald Trump is the only President chosen by God in American history.” The post came in the same week as escalating international tension following US airstrikes in the Middle East.