HKIS and its founding church end ties in settlement

Hong Kong International School Association Limited (HKISAL) and the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS) have reached a confidential settlement, ending their legal dispute and dissolving their governance relationship. The lawsuit, filed by the US-based LCMS in September 2025, alleged that HKIS had deviated from its founding principles by primarily serving wealthy families, contrary to their operating agreement.

The HKIS confirmed that the search for a new head of school, initiated by the LCMS, has been discontinued, and the school's leadership will remain unchanged. The school's operator, HKISAL, will continue its role at both the Repulse Bay and Tai Tam campuses.

In a statement, HKIS emphasized that the settlement would not lead to additional tuition hikes and that philanthropic donations will not be used to cover legal or settlement costs. HKISAL board member Harold Kim expressed satisfaction with the mediated resolution, acknowledging the LCMS's foundational role in establishing HKIS's Christian identity while focusing on delivering an exceptional education to students.

The LCMS also welcomed the settlement, stating that it allows the HKISAL to pursue its vision for the school, while the church will receive a monetary settlement reflecting its historical contributions. Chairman Christian Preus of the LCMS board of directors regretted the necessity of the lawsuit but emphasized that it was essential to enforce the operating agreement and restore the school's original mission.

The LCMS admitted that HKIS had evolved into an institution that diverged significantly from its founding vision, prioritizing quality education for all. The mediation resulted in a fair resolution to concerns raised by the LCMS over years and enabled the church to pursue its mission without disruption.