Gyeongnam National University Selected as Host Institution for 'Overseas North Korea and Unification Studies Academic Exchange Support Project'

Front view of the Institute of Far Eastern Studies at Gyeongnam National University (Photo by Gyeongnam National University)

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Kang Woo-kwon] The Institute of Far Eastern Studies at Gyeongnam National University and the University of North Korean Studies have been selected as the lead institutions for the Ministry of Unification's 'Overseas North Korea and Unification Studies Academic Exchange Support Project.'

In a situation where the importance of public diplomacy for peace and unification on the Korean Peninsula is increasing day by day, this project, launched for the first time this year to expand the base of overseas researchers related to Korean Peninsula unification and North Korea, consists of scholarship support for master's and doctoral degree programs specialized in North Korea and unification studies, as well as a long-term fellowship program.

The 'North Korea and Unification Studies Research Scholarship' provides support for up to three years to applicants of the master's and doctoral programs in North Korean studies offered by the University of North Korean Studies. The 'North Korea and Unification Studies Research Fellowship,' hosted by the Institute of Far Eastern Studies, offers emerging researchers interested in Korean Peninsula issues a continuous research program for about six months to one year, including special lectures by top domestic North Korea experts and current and former high-ranking policymakers, field workshops, and seminars.

Officials from the Ministry of Unification and Gyeongnam National University stated, "Through this project, we will discover and nurture overseas researchers who can view peace and unification issues on the Korean Peninsula from the perspective of the Peninsula itself, and continue efforts to create an international environment favorable to peace and unification between South and North Korea."

Applications for the program will be accepted from April 1 to May 20. Detailed information, including the recruitment announcement, can be found on the website of the Institute of Far Eastern Studies at Gyeongnam National University.