About us
Travel ecosystem research for a better world.
TERL is a welcoming space for evidence-based and interdisciplinary tourism scholarship. Our mission is to uncover truths about how destinations, events, and technology shape sustainable travel systems.
We work collaboratively with policymakers, industry partners, and researchers to turn rigorous insights into practical impact.
Hani Kim, Ph.D.
Director, Travel Ecosystem Research Lab (TERL)
Kim is focused on understanding how destination ecosystems evolve through branding, mega-events, sustainability transitions, and AI-driven tourism systems.
Her work bridges empirical research with real-world decision-making across public organizations and industry partners.
Kim earned her Ph.D. in Tourism and Hospitality Management from the University of Florida. She currently serves as a Professor in the Department of Tourism Convention at Pusan National University and directs the Travel Ecosystem Research Lab (TERL). Her work focuses on destination ecosystems, tourism branding, mega-events, and emerging technologies in tourism systems.
Our values
We believe deeply in the RADICAL way knowledge can reshape our world.
We are careful in our search for the truth, even if it is uncomfortable or controversial. We own up to our mistakes and take accountability, knowing that this is the path to our own improvement and keeping others’ trust.
We recognize our responsibility to be proactive and practical in our approach to ethical research practices. We are life-long, open-minded, interdisciplinary learners. We seek opportunities to grow. Each day, we recommit to doing our best.