Global China Research Institute at National Pukyong University Embarks on Major Youth Studies Initiative

Selected for Humanities Korea 3.0 Project
4.8 Billion Won in Funding Over Six Years
Pioneering Youth Studies Discourse in East Asia

The Global China Research Institute at National Pukyong University, led by Director Lee Bogo, has been selected for the Humanities Korea (HK) 3.0 project by the Ministry of Education and the National Research Foundation of Korea, marking the beginning of a major initiative in youth studies research.

On August 28, the institute held the 1st East Asian Youth Studies Colloquium at the Humanities, Social Sciences, and Business Building of Pukyong National University, under the theme "Culture Crossing Borders: Asia Through the Lens of Youth."

Participants of the Global China Research Institute Colloquium are taking a commemorative photo. Photo by Pukyong National University

The Humanities Korea (HK) project is a flagship national support program aimed at fostering world-class humanities research institutes. The Global China Research Institute was selected this year and will receive 4.8 billion won over six years to establish a new humanities discourse centered on youth studies.

With generational discourse and the crisis of youth emerging as major social issues in Korea and across East Asia, the institute plans to approach youth issues from a humanities perspective and seek alternative solutions.

At the event, Baek Youngseo, Professor Emeritus at Yonsei University, delivered a keynote lecture presenting both theoretical and practical possibilities for East Asian youth studies. This was followed by a lively discussion involving Professor Jo Moonyoung of Yonsei University, Professor Yoon Jongseok of University of Seoul, Park Dongchan, Director of the Borderline Voice Research Institute, and HK research professors Kim Suhyun and Ha Seongho of Pukyong National University, along with youth representatives.

The participants broadened the consensus on the agendas and challenges that the humanities should address through youth studies. The event was held both online and offline, allowing for a diverse exchange of opinions.

The Global China Research Institute will continue to expand the discourse by inviting emerging sociologist Choi Taeseop and philosopher Shim Gwiyoun to host a colloquium and workshop on September 25.