IACKS

2008 Korean Studies Institution Grant Application Announcement

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 16:08:06 GMT

The Academy of Korean Studies would like to announce that 2008 grant applications will be accepted from June 4 through 13 July 2008.

If your institution meets the criteria and has an interest in creating a program which requires medium- to long-term support, please consider 2008 proposal guidelines and submit a project proposal. Please read the following brief guidelines carefully.

1. Designated regions/areas: all countries in the world

2. Eligibility
- A university with at least two full-time faculty members in a Korean studies program and a graduate degree program in Korean studies, * or
- Even if it does not meet the above eligibility requirement, a university with programs related to Korean studies can carry out consortium projects with a university (or universities) that has a degree program in Korean studies (including interdisciplinary consortiums within the university) **
* This faculty member must hold a Ph.D. and teach full-time in the field of Korean studies at the time of application.
** For consortium projects, each participating university may have a project group for coordinating related activities. In this case, the primary grantee institution and the head of the umbrella project group will have responsibility and authority over the overall project.

3. Application Period: Application begins Thursday, June 4, 2008, and ends Sunday, July 13th.

4. Yearly Support Amount
-Each applicant (a university or a consortium) for a KSIG project, located in North America, Europe, Oceania, and Japan, can submit yearly budget of 200 million KRW. The total amount for the 5 year project is 1000 million KRW per each university or each consortium.
-Each applicant for a KSIG project, located in other area, can submit yearly budget of 50million -100million KRW. The total amount for the 5 year project is 250million - 500milliom KRW per each university or each consortium.

5. Application Procedure
1) Download '2008 Korean Studies Institution Grant Proposal Guidelines' and write project proposals in Korean or English according to the guidelines (use hwp or MS Word)
2) Submit a project proposal (including Korean or English abstract) and supporting documents using the application form on the KSIG website
3) KSIG website (www.aks.ac.kr/ksig) → Application → Apply to KSIG →Application Form →Send
4) Submit documents online by deadline (July 13, 2008) and a mailed-in hard copy within two (2) weeks from the deadline.

6. Required Documents
- Project proposal including Korean or English abstract
- Curriculum vitae, list of research achievements, and 2 relevant work
samples of the chair and deputy chair.

7. Contact
- KSIG Website: www.aks.ac.kr/ksig
- Ms. Hyehyun Kim (김혜현)
- E-mail: gotti6071@aks.ac.kr or ksm@aks.ac.kr
- Tel: 82-31-709-9843 Fax: 82-31-709-9945
- Mailing Address: The Academy of Korean Studies,
Center for Information on Korean Culture,
International Support Division
110 Hao Gogaegil, Unjung-dong, Bundang-gu
Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea 463-791

For more detail, please refer to the KSIG website and see the attached file of '2008 Korean Studies Institution Grant Proposal Guidelines.'

- KSIG Korean website: http://www.aks.ac.kr/KSIG/kr/Application/Ksig_Apply.aspx
- KSIG English website:http://www.aks.ac.kr/KSIG/en/Application/Ksig_Apply.aspx
--

Social Science Research Council's Funding Opportunities

Sat, 21 Jun 2008 08:19:57 GMT

Social Science Research Council (SSRC) offers a variuety of funding opportunities for schoalrs of Social Sciences working in the area of Asian Studies. See their website: http://fellowships.ssrc.org/overview/

Korean Studies Dissertation Workshop

The Korean Studies Dissertation Workshop aims to foster a sustained network of advanced graduate students and faculty engaged in research on Korea. This four-day workshop provides an informal setting for participants to give and receive critical feedback on dissertations in progress. Applications are welcome from students in all fields of the social sciences and humanities who have not yet begun field work, who are currently in the field, and those who are in the process of writing their dissertations. Full-time advanced graduate students, who are enrolled at U.S. or Canadian institutions and have an approved dissertation prospectus are eligible. Participants in the 2008 Korean Studies Dissertation Workshop will be announced in early June.

The SSRC Korean Studies Dissertation Workshop seeks to create a sustained network of advanced graduate students and faculty by providing the opportunity to give and receive critical feedback on dissertations in progress. The workshop is open to participants from all fields in the social sciences and humanities and from institutions throughout the US and Canada. Individual students lead discussions of their projects with mentor faculty and student peers from various disciplines to receive creative and critical input on improving their fieldwork plans or writing strategies. Based on narrative project descriptions submitted as part of the application packet, participants will prepare a synthetic essay incorporating all projects, from which broader methodological and thematic discussions will be developed and incorporated into the four-day agenda.

The 2008 workshop will take place Sunday, July 13 through Thursday, July 17 at the Asilomar Conference Center in Monterey, California, and will involve twelve students and five faculty.

The workshop welcomes applications from students who have not yet begun fieldwork, who are currently in the field, and those who are in the process of writing their dissertations. In most cases, the SSRC will fully cover participants' travel, lodging and meals for the duration of the workshop. Limited funds are available for participants traveling from outside the United States. Funds for the program are provided by the Korea Foundation.

Eligibility and Application

Full-time advanced graduate students, regardless of citizenship, who are enrolled at US or Canadian institutions are eligible for the workshop.
Applicants must have an approved dissertation prospectus at the time of application, but cannot have completed writing for final submission.
Special consideration will be given to students from universities that are not major Korean Studies institutions.

A narrative description of the dissertation topic, short application form and a letter of recommendation from the student's primary advisor are required as part of the application.

Announcement of Awards: June 2008.

For further information, please contact:

korea@ssrc.org
Tel: 212-377-2700 ext. 423
Fax: 212-377-2727

2008 Korean Government Scholarship Program for Graduate Students

Tue, 27 May 2008 10:33:23 GMT

Dear IACKS Members,

Please find in the Public Folders the information about 2008 Korean Government Scholarship Program for Graduate Students. The sponsor is the ROK National Institute for International Education Development (NIIED). Grantees must arrive in Korea for registration at the NIIED between August 25 (Mon) and August 28 (Thu), 2008.

Best regards,

Leonid Petrov PhD
Executive Director, Australia
International Association for Contemporary Korea Studies
Mob: +61-403076604

NK Study Tours for Scholars and Researchers (general information)

Tue, 20 May 2008 08:59:06 GMT

1. NK Study Tours are jointly run by the International Association for Contemporary Korea Studies and the [North] Korean Association of Social Scientists. Participants pay only for their own international airfare, visa fees, and domestic transportation. The North Korean side covers all other expenses in the DPRK.

2. This program is designed for graduate and post-graduate students, researchers, lecturers and professors affiliated with universities and research centres around the world working in the area of Social Sciences and/or Asian Studies (preferably with focus on contemporary Korea).

3. Applications from ROK citizens cannot be accepted. Applications from Japanese and US passport-holders are examined by the North Korean side on the case by case basis.

Persons who qualify to join this program will be required to fill in the personal particulars form (see below) and attach a scan of his/her passport's first page with photograph (JPG file). This information will be used for DPRK visa application only.

1) Name as in passport:
2) Sex:
3) Date of Birth (dd/mm/yyyy):
4) Citizenship:
5) Passport number:
6) Current occupation/affiliation with the address of academic institution and telephone number of academic supervisor or head of faculty:
7) Home address, telephone number(s), e-mail address:
8) Ethnicity:

The next NK Study Tour is being planned for October-November 2008 (but has not been confirmed yet). The North Korean organiser can normally accept one group (4~6 people) per year.

If you need more information, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Leonid Petrov at <leonid.petrov@anu.edu.au>

IACKS

2007 NK Study Tour (23.10-16.11.2007)

Sat, 17 May 2008 05:48:57 GMT

The 2007 NK Study Tour was held from 23 October to 16 November. There were six members (four from Australia and two from France) - all scholars and researchers of contemporary Korea. The delegation was hosted by the [North] Korean Association of Social Scientists (KASS). The purpose of this trip was familiarization with the state of social sciences in North Korea, the establishment of academic cooperation with North Korean universities and research centres, and visits to the places of interest in this country.

Every day the NK Study Tour delegation had three-hour meetings with the scholars of social sciences specializing in Economics, Politics, Law and Philosophy. These meetings consisted of a lectures followed by Q&A discussions. There were no restrictions on recording or photographing. Most issues were freely debated until satisfactory answers were received. Of particular interest were the lectures on Philosophy by Dr.Kim Chang-gyeong, and the lectures on the theory of Socialism by Dr.Ri Cheon-hwa. All lectures were conducted in Korean and simultaneously translated into English by the KASS Researcher, Ms.Choe Cheong-ae.

Accompanied by the KASS Executive Officer, Mr. Ri Song-il, the delegation visited various places in Pyongyang and traveled to other cities and towns (Namp'o, Ryonggang, Kaesong, P'anmunjeom, DMZ, Myohyangsan). In Pyongyang, the delegation visited the Kim Il-sung University, Kim Chaek University of Technology E-Library, Kim Won-gyun Conservatory, People's Grand Study House, Pyongyang Moranbong Middle School No.1, Man'gyeongdae Children's Palace, Kim Cheong-suk nursery, etc.

The delegation visited the National History Museum, Museum of Korean Revolution, Korean Art Museum, Korean Folklore Museum, History Museum, Museum of Party Foundation, Tomb of King Tongmyeong, Peace Museum in P'anmunjeom, Revolutionary Martyrs' Cemetery, Man'gyeongdae Museum, Wolhyang Minye Art Exhibition, Kimilsungia and Kimjongilia Flower Exhibition, the Three Revolutions Exhibition, Myohyangsan International Friendship Exhibition, Keumsusang Memorial Palace

Monument to the Party Foundation, the Juche Tower, West Sea Barrage, Mansudae Hill Memorial, Moranbong Park Memorial, Arch of Triumph, Pohyongsa Buddhist Temple, Pyongyang Film Studio, Taedonggang Beer Brewery, Pakkyong Waterfall, Ryongaksan Natural Reserve, etc. were also visited.

Among cultural events attended by the delegation were the revolutionary opera "Flower Girl" (Pyongyang Opera House), a circus show (Pyongyang Circus), a qualifying soccer match DPRK-Mongolia (Kim Il-sung Stadium), a Halloween party at the RAC bar for foreigners (Munsudong Diplomatic Compound).

Meeting with KASS Director General, Mr. Pak Ch'ang-yul took place on 8 November 2008 and was dedicated to the discussion of main political issues in and around the DPRK. Mr.Pak expressed the KASS's wish to cooperate with the International Association for Contemporary Korea Studies (IACKS) and its individual members in the future.

The next NK Study Tour is currently being planned for October-November 2008 (however, it is not yet confirmed). For more information, contact IACKS webmaster.

IACKS News Letter (April 2008)

Fri, 02 May 2008 18:55:56 GMT

Dear friends and colleagues,

The International Association for Contemporary Korea Studies' Rules have been drafted and uploaded to this website (see Public Documents). You will see that the IACKS is conceived as a virtual group. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

At the moment I am taking the initiative to fulfill the duty of Executive Director until the next (on-line) general meeting takes place. If you want to be a Regional Director in your country or region, please volunteer. At the moment IACKS has been joined by 15 people from 7 countries. That means we can already have 7 Regional Directors.

If you have not done so, you are most welcome to join us formally through this website (www.iacks.spaces.live.com) and you will automatically receive all updates and complimentary Contemporary Korea News. If you have technical problems please let me know. If you lose your interest in IACKS and its publications you can always unsubscribe from this website.

For those who applied for 2008 NK Study Tour, I would like to inform you that I have proposed to KASS to conduct this three-week tour sometime between late September and early November. At the moment 4 people have applied (3 Australians and 1 US passport holder). It is still have to be established whether US citizens and ethnic Koreans can be accepted by the KASS. I am bidding for equal opportunities for all IACKS members.

One more news. The IIJI Secreatary General Dr.OGAMI Kenichi, plans to visit Australia in late July 2008. He might give a seminar at the ANU on the philosophical, political and historical aspects of Juche. If anyone wants to communicate with him directly, please let me know and I'll send you his e-mail address.

And finally, for those who are in Canberra and its vicinity, please do not forget that on 6th, 7th,and 8th May 2008 we are showing three North Korean films (18:00-20:00). All details are here: http://koreanstudies.anu.edu.au/filmnight.htm

With very best regards,

Leonid Petrov PhD
Executive Director, Australia
--
International Association for Contemporary Korea Studies
www.iacks.spaces.live.com

Retrospective Screening of North Korean Films in Australia

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 08:55:15 GMT

6-8 May 2008 from 6 to 8 PM,
in Room G051, Melville Hall,
Australian National University,
Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia

Anyone interested in contemporary North Korea is warmly invited to attend a unique series of retrospective film screenings by Dr. Leonid Petrov. Please note that the films shown have no subtitles, but will be preceded by an explanatory synopsis in English. Complete synopses of the movies are available here.

Dr. Leonid Petrov (RSPAS, ANU), who has been studying and teaching North Korearelated subjects for many years, will provide a brief introduction and lead the discussion. Dr. Petrov is currently working on the projects “Historical Conflict and Reconciliation in East Asia” (ANU-ARC) and “North-South Interfaces on the Korean Peninsula” (French CNRS-EHESS).

TUESDAY 6 MAY: THE DESTINY OF KŬMHŬI AND ŬNHŬI [금희와 은희의 운명]
(1974, Dir. by Pak Hak and Ŏm Kilsŏn, 101 min. No subtitles; synopsis in English)
Room G051, Melville Hall: 18:00 - 20:00
One of the classics of North Korean cinematography, this film emulates the best examples of Soviet and Chinese film making traditions. The story is based on the famous novel by Paek Injun about two twins separated by the Korean War. Having lost contact with each other, the sisters live in the very different societies separated by civil and ideological conflict. Kŭmhŭi lives a happy and comfortable life in North Korea, where she can see her talent for singing and dancing fulfilled. Her sister, Ŭnhŭi, on the contrary, is destined to suffer in the South, surrounded by social evils and class inequality. This film laments the national division and claims the superiority of the socialist system.The film wonderfully portrays the grim reality of everyday life shortly after the Korean War.

WEDNESDAY 7 MAY: OUR FRAGRANCE [우리의 향기]
(2003, Dir. by Chŏn Chongp’al, 85 min. No subtitles; synopsis in English)
Room G051, Melville Hall: 18:00 - 20:00

This film reflects the early changes and nascent conflicts that emerged in North Korean society after the introduction of market-oriented reforms in July 2002. Foreign cultural influences, growing materialism and consumerism are believed to create obstacles for the advancement of Korean-style socialism.

Pyŏngho, a researcher-scientist who develops new types of the traditional dish kimch’i, comes from a conservative family. He tries to preserve and incorporate the traditional values into modern life. A young guide-interpreter, Saebyŏl, who works for an international travel company, is overly accustomed to the lifestyle influenced by foreign traditions. The two meet at the fashion show in Pyongyang, where their participation becomes a major trial to both them and their families.

THURSDAY 8 MAY: THE SCHOOLGIRL’S DIARY [한녀학행의 일기]
(2006, Dir. by Chang Inhak, 93 min. No subtitles; synopsis in English)
Room G051, Melville Hall: 18:00 - 20:00

One of the most recent films produced in North Korea, The Schoolgirl’s Diary immediately hit the box-office record locally, won a prize at the 2006 International Pyongyang Film Festival, and even found its way overseas. The film chronicles a girl’s life throughout her school years, full of mundane problems such as peer pressure and concerns over money.

The main character, Suryŏn, is preparing to make a major decision on what to do with her life after school. She analyses her childhood and questions her parents’ difficult life. Suryŏn’s family lives in a rundown country house, her mother is suffering from cancer, and her father is a workaholic who spends days and nights at the factory working on a scientific project. Tensions at home and school translate into depression and disenchantment with her parents. However, one day Suryŏn comes to realise her selfishness and immaturity.

"Crossing the Line" (2007) by Daniel Gordon

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 17:36:08 GMT

In 1962, the 20 year old PFC James Dresnok was serving in the demilitarised zone between North Korea and South Korea when he just headed across in the northern side of the border. Captured by the North Koreans, Dresnok became the first of several American GI's to "defect" to the communist North and went on to be enormous propaganda tools to the regime of the time. This film looks back on the life of Dresnok in North Korea and his importance within that regime.

It is hard to deny that this film will have limited appeal as one does have to wonder how well known the Dresnok defection is outside of those from the US who were at a certain age in the early 1960's. I certainly knew nothing of him but was drawn to the film by the chance of learning more about the mostly inward and secretive North Korea. As such the film is quite interesting because it does give an insider's view while also having that insider being a westerner. However the film does not just use Dresnok as the way in to the country but he is the focus of the film and this is both a strength and a weakness. Review by Bob the Moo

If you have not yet seen the documentary about James Dresnok, the American defector to North Korea, here are the links...

Part 1: http://video.aol.com/video-detail/documentary-north-korea-crossing-the-line-2006-part-14/1783044093

Part 2: http://video.aol.com/video-detail/documentary-north-korea-crossing-the-line-2006-part-24/1961013778

Part 3: http://video.aol.com/video-detail/documentary-north-korea-crossing-the-line-2006-part-34/834250604

Part 4: http://video.aol.com/video-detail/documentary-north-korea-crossing-the-line-2006-part-44/3383696678

IACKS

Year 2008 Korean Government Scholarship Program for Undergraduate Students

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 16:38:55 GMT

1. Program Objective

The objective of the Korean Government scholarship program for Undergraduate Students is to provide international students with the opportunities to conduct advanced studies at higher educational institutions in the Republic of Korea in order to promote international exchange in education and mutual friendship between countries.

2. The Universities : Konkuk Univ., Gyeongsang National Univ., Keimyung Univ., Korea Univ., Kongju National Univ., Dong-A Univ., Myongji Univ., Paichai Univ., Sogang Univ., Seoul National Univ., SunMoon Univ., Ajou Univ., Yonsei Univ., Wonkwang Univ., Ewha Women’s Univ., Inha Univ., Chosun Univ., Chungnam National Univ., Hankuk Univ. of Foreign Studies, Hanyang Univ.

3. Academic Programs

Undergraduate course for four years after one-year Korean Language Training. After taking one year’s Korean language course in the designated language institutes, scholars will apply up to five universities among designated twenty ones.

4. Total Candidates for Selection

The number of candidates for selection will depend upon the country eligible for the scholarship program. For detailed information, please contact the Korean Embassy or Consulate in the country of origin.

5. Eligibility

To be eligible, an applicant must:

(1) Be a citizen of the country to which this scholarship is offered;

(2) Be under the 25 years of age as of February 29, 2008 ( i.e. born on or after March 1^st, 1983);

(3) Have an adequate health, both physically and mentally;

(4) Have finished or be scheduled to finish a total of 12 year formal education as of February 29th, 2008;

(5) Have earned a top 10% of grade point average or more than 80 scores average (among 100 full scores) for the all educational institution attended.

(6) Possess a good command of Korean (Preferred Korean Language Proficiency Test Level 4 and over)

(7) Possess a good command of English (Over 550 of PBT, 213 of CBT or 80 of iBT Toefl / Over 6.0 of IELTS/ Over 750 of TOEIC)

※ One who does not have a standard test result should submit a recommendation letter of the principal of his/her school);

(8) Not at any time have received a Korean government scholarship for his/her undergraduate study before;

(9) Not have studied an undergraduate course in Korea before;

(10) Be willing to promote amicable relations between his/ her country and the Republic of Korea.

6. Scholarship Payment

(1) Scholarship Period

ㅇ 5 years in total: 1 year of Korean Language course and 4 years of Undergraduate Course,

(2) Scholarship Benefits

ⅰ. Airfare: The scholars will be paid an economy class airfare from their country to the Republic of Korea, and, thereafter, an economy air ticket from Korea to their country after the completion of their study.

※ The NIIED does not compensate either for fees for their domestic travel or for an insurance for traveling to and from the Republic of Korea. These costs must be paid by the scholars themselves.

※ Airfare for entry into Korea will not be provided to a scholar who has remained in Korea as of the confirmation date of selection of scholarship students. And should any scholar wish to return home within one-year, airfare for repatriation should be borne by themselves except for the cases approved by the NIIED such as their close relatives' death, serious illness, severance of diplomatic relations, war and other natural disasters.

ⅱ. Monthly Allowance: Upon arrival and registration at NIIED, the scholars will be paid with 800,000 won per month to cover living expenses during the scholarship period.

ⅲ. Tuition Fees: the scholars has the benefit of tuition-waiver: The full entrance fee are exempted by the host institution. The full tuition is exempted by the government.

ⅳ. Settlement Allowance: 200,000 won upon arrival

ⅴ. Repatriation Allowance: 100,000 won upon completion of studies.

ⅵ. Language Training Expenses: The NIIED pays the entrusted language training institution the full costs.

ⅶ. Medical Insurance: The grantees will be provided with a health insurance during the period of their study program in the Republic of Korea. They will be reimbursed against direct payments for the major accidents and illnesses.

7. Cancellation of Scholarship

(1) If a scholar is found engaged in any of the following during his/her stay in Korea, his/her scholarship will be suspended or the scholarship amount provided to the student till at the time of being found must be returned to NIIED and the scholar will be deported back to his/her country.

ㅇ When any documents of the scholarship application has been found false,

ㅇ When they failed in getting admission to the university,

ㅇ When punished by the university or involved in any form of political activity,

ㅇ When they violated the regulations they have given pledge to the NIIED,

ㅇ When found violated the guidelines and regulations set by the NIIED,

ㅇ When cautioned more than 2 times due to the absence from the Korean language training without permission or the temporary departure without permission or notification,

ㅇ When they have not earned at least 2/3 of the registered credit courses due to the discontinuation of their study without permission from the NIIED

ㅇWhen they have not submitted a request for re-enrollment to the university and not notified the NIIED of re-enrollment without any proper reasons within one month after the period of leave of absence from study has ended.

(2) The scholars studying for undergraduate programs are strongly recommended not to be absent in the Republic of Korea for more than 30 days at one departure. (In other words, they must reenter the Republic of Korea on the 31st day.) Neglecting this rule will cause their monthly allowance to be curtailed for the period of absence exceeding 30 days. Therefore, the scholars ought to obtain a proper approval from the NIIED office in order to exit the Republic of Korea for more than 30 days. Principally, scholars of the Korean language course should remain in the Republic of Korea until the end of their study programs.

8. Extension of Scholarship Period

Extension of a scholarship is available only for the scholars studying for a master's or doctoral degree programs under certain circumstances. The extension will be determined by the NIIED taking into account the grantee's academic performance, the opinion of academic advisor, the NIIED's annual budget, and other factors.

9. Submission of Required Documents

(1) Place of Submission: Documents must be submitted to the Korean Embassy or Consulate in the country of origin.

(2) Deadline of Submission: Decided by the Korean Embassy or Consulate in the country of origin.

(3) Documents to be submitted

① One completed application form (on a prescribed form)

② Two 4cm x 5cm color photos

③ One Copy of a high school diploma

④ One Copy of a transcript from a high school

⑤ One copy of a certificate of English proficiency (and one copy of a certificate of Korean proficiency if any)

⑥ Two recommendation letters from the applicant's teachers or presidents (on a prescribed form)

⑦ One Self-introduction Essay (on a prescribed form)

⑧ One NIIED Pledge (on a prescribed form)

⑨ One Study Plan (on a prescribed form)

⑩ One Certificate of Health (on a prescribed form)

(4) Notes

Application form and other program materials are to be filled out either in Korean or in English. Certificates, credentials, etc. issued in other languages but Korean or English must accompany official translation verified by a notary.

※ Submitted documents will not be returned to the applicant.

※ Incomplete or incorrect documents are subject to rejection by the NIIED.

10. Scholarship Award Procedures

(1) The Korean diplomatic or consular missions abroad make a preliminary selection of applicants based upon the result of their own selection process. (The recommendations of the government of the country to which scholarship is allocated are available for selection.)

(2) The Korean missions abroad recommend the selected candidates to the National Institute for International Education Development (NIIED), along with the documents through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

(3) The NIIED Review Committee selects the final candidates and, through the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, informs the Korean Embassies in the countries concerned. And eventually, the Korean Embassy notifies the successful nominees in their home countries.

11. Academic Study in Korea

(1) Korean Language Course

Duration: One year(Six months may be extended by the decision of NIIED)

Institution: Designated institution to which the NIIED entrusts Korean language training.

(2) Undergraduate Programs

- Undergraduate schools are generally run on a "semester system" basis, hence students may enroll in March. The first semester lasts from March until August, and the second semester from September until February.

- Duration of Study: 4 years for a undergraduate program.

- Language of Instruction: In many higher educational institutions of the Republic of Korea the language of instruction is Korean and English. Therefore, the potential candidates are expected to possess a good command of Korean and English.

12. Important things

(1) Entry

Grantees must arrive in the Republic of Korea for registration at the NIIED by May 26, 2008.

Failure to enter the Republic of Korea within the designated period stated above may result in the cancellation of a scholarship award.

(2) Preparation for Entry

- Prior to arrival, the grantees should acquire some knowledge about the Korean language, weather, customs, food, and so on.

- Every grantee should read the 「Guidebook for Korean Government Scholarship Undergraduate Students of Developing Countries」 thoroughly, which will be distributed prior to arriving in Korea. They should keep it for their reference while staying in Korea.

- Grantees will begin receiving their monthly allowances on March 1st, 2008. Therefore, they are advised to bring at least US$ 800 (approximately 800,000 won) to cover their living expenses for the first month.

- As far as the visa procedures are concerned, each scholar is required to visit the Consular section of the Korean embassy in their country of residence after being informed of their selection.

- No expenses will be provided for family dependents accompanying the scholar. Accordingly, the scholar

should make a proper preparation for living with his or her family in Korea prior to coming to Korea.

- Useful Websites

ㅇKorean Language Study http://www.ied.go.kr

ㅇKorean Universities http://yuhak.ied.go.kr → Study abroad information for foreign students

ㅇKorean Culture http://www.mct.go.kr

http://www.knto.or.kr

http://www.unesco.or.kr

ㅇDiplomatic Missions http://www.mofat.go.kr

ㅇEntry & Residence http://www.moj.go.kr or http://www.moj.go.kr/immi

The 4th World Congress of Korean Studies: Call for Papers

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 12:52:20 GMT

Korean Studies Interfacing with the World

The organizing committee of the 4th World Congress of Korean Studies announces a call for papers to all academics and professionals in Korean studies. The World Congress, co-organized by the Academy of Korean Studies (AKS) and Kyushu University, will be held from Sept. 22-24, 2008 at Kyushu University , Fukuoka , Japan . As one of the prominent Korean studies conference in the world, it will provide scholars with an opportunity to share their latest academic achievements and develop friendships in the field of Korean studies.

-Date: Mon. Sept. 22 ~ Weds. Sept. 24, 2008
-Venue: Kyushu University , Fukuoka , Japan
-Official Languages: Korean, English
-Jointly organized by the Academy of Korean Studies (AKS), Kyushu University , International Society for Korean Studies (ISKS), Pacific and Asia Conference on Korean Studies (PACKS), Korean Studies Association of Australasia (KSAA), Association for Korean Studies in Europe (AKSE), Central Asian Association for Korean Studies (CAAKS) and the Committee on Korean Studies-Association for Asian Studies (CKS-AAS) -website:www.aks.ac.kr/congress

Schedule
21st of Sept. (Sun): Banquet
22nd of Sept. (Mon): Opening Ceremony, Sessions (Keynote Presentation: Robert Buswell [UCLA])
23rd of Sept. (Tue): Sessions, Closing Ceremony
24th of Sept. (Weds): Post-conference Cultural Tour(Optional)

Sessions
-Designated Session (Individual Proposal)
● History ● Sociology ● Culture/ Anthropology ● Political Science ● Economics/Trade/Industry ● Law ● Art ● Folklore ● Literature ● Education ● Science/Technology ● Philosophy ● Religion ● Language

-Free Paper Session (Panel Proposal) This session is to present participants' interests and reflections on Korean studies. A panel proposal including the topic of the session and organizing plan is required.

-Special Session (Individual Proposal) ● How Korea is Reflected in Foreign Textbooks ● Korean Language Studies for Foreigners/Korean Nationals Residing Abroad ● History of Cultural Exchange between Korea and Japan ● National Studies in Korea vs. Korean Studies around the World

*Each panelist has 30 minutes. There is a 20 minute time limit for the presentation and 10 minute for discussion.

Eligibility: Scholars and professionals, including graduate students pursuing a master's or doctorate

Submission: Paper submissions will only be accepted online through the World Congress of Korean Studies homepage (www.aks.ac.kr/congress) from April 1 - May 10, 2008. Once you have submitted your paper, you will receive an e-mail confirmation within 2 working days. The abstracts will be reviewed based on content and suitability. Selected presenters will be contacted individually by May 30, 2008 and notified about the guidelines. Submission of the full paper (10-15 pages) is due via e-mail by Aug. 31, 2008 to korea2008@aks.ac.kr.

* The abstract cannot exceed 1000 words in English or 350 words in Korean.
**For the free paper session, a panel proposal, abstract and CV of each panelist is required.
***Congress homepage will be accessible starting Tuesday, April 1, 2008.

Accommodation & Fee Full meal coverage (Sept. 21 Dinner ~ 24 Breakfast) and 3 nights lodging (Sept. 21- 23, 2 per room) will be provided for all congress participants. (An extra fee will be charged if you require a single room.)

Registration fee: US$ 50, KRW 50,000, JPY 5,000 (Cultural Tour is not included.) (Student fee: US$ 30, KRW 30,000, JPY 3,000)

Korean Studies Junior Scholar Thesis Award
We cordially invite students in Korean studies to apply for the Junior Scholar Thesis Award. To apply, please check the box 'KOREAN STUDIES JUNIOR SCHOLAR THESIS AWARD' on your abstract submission form. The committee will screen your paper and select the best thesis. Awardees will be acknowledged for their achievements. Master and doctorate students are eligible to apply for this award.

Contact Secretariat: The Academy of Korean Studies - website: www.aks.ac.kr/congress - E-mail: korea2008@aks.ac.kr
- TEL: +82-31-709-9843
- FAX: +82-31-809-9945

Anniversary of IIJI Marked in India

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 10:47:56 GMT

Pyongyang, March 29, 2008 (KCNA)

An event was held in India on March 23 to mark the 30th anniversary of the International Institute of the Juche Idea (IIJI). Present there were figures of the IIJI, the Asian Regional Institute of the Juche Idea, the African Regional Committee for the Study of the Juche Idea, the European Society for the Study of the Juche Idea, the Latin American Institute of the Juche Idea and the World Peace Council, chiefs of Juche idea study groups in Thailand, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Austria, Japan and other countries, personages from all walks of life in India and a delegation of the Korean Social Scientists Society.
    Congratulatory speeches were made at the event. Vishwanath, director-general of the IIJI, in a report said that the establishment of the IIJI was required by the times and it was an inevitable result of the law-governed process of the development of the Juche idea, stressing that its validity has been fully proved in the history of the past 30 years. The attraction and the vitality of the Juche idea find their vivid manifestation in that General Secretary Kim Jong Il has firmly defended the socialist cause in the DPRK with indomitable will under the uplifted banner of the Songun idea based on the Juche idea, he added.
    He said that the IIJI has served as a centre for conducting the study and dissemination of the Juche idea in an organized and purposeful manner worldwide and this helped formulate the Juche idea as a worldwide doctrine beyond the boundary of the country where it was founded. He also underlined the need to support the DPRK defending the cause of socialism under the banner of the Juche idea and the Songun idea and learn from its experience and exert efforts to apply the Juche idea into the specific realities of each country, not content with grasping and admitting it as a mere principle.
    The floor was then taken by Kamwiziku Octave, secretary general of the African Regional Committee for the Study of the Juche Idea, Harish Gupta, secretary general of the Asian Regional Institute of the Juche Idea, Takao Kamakura, honorary professor of Saitama College in Japan, and several other figures, who spoke on study and dissemination of the Juche idea.
    A declaration on the 30th anniversary of the IIJI was read out there. The declaration said: "We will foil all sorts of moves on the part of the imperialists and the hegemonic forces aimed to reverse the trend of the history, with the strength of truth and justice clarified by the Juche idea, and dynamically promote the drive for global independence. We will strengthen international solidarity with the Korean people who are working hard to build a great prosperous and powerful nation of Juche and achieve the independent national reunification while taking the lead in carrying out the human cause of independence.
    We will deem highly of the institute and repose trust in it and more briskly conduct the study and dissemination of the Juche idea to suit the specific conditions of each region and country with the institute as a centre. 2012 is a year marking the 100th anniversary of the birth of President Kim Il Sung, the declaration said, stressing that they will put the study and dissemination of the Juche idea on a new higher stage in step with the Korean people's efforts for applying the idea in all fields and contribute to accomplishing the human cause of independence and thus brilliantly glorify 2012, a historic year."
    A letter to Kim Jong Il was adopted there. The letter noted that the Juche idea, fathered by Kim Il Sung and enriched by Kim Jong Il, has displayed its tremendous vitality in the present times and has given powerful impetus to the struggle of the world people for independence. In particular, the spearhead of the "superpower's" offensive is being directed at the DPRK, but you are leading the Korean people to victory under the banner of Songun to provide sure guarantee for the dignity and prosperity of the country, it stressed. "It also said that the Juche idea should be taken as their own by the broad masses of people in order to ensure victory of their struggle for definitely advancing the era of independence and to this end, it is essential to expand the ranks of people studying and disseminating the idea worldwide."
    There were an art performance and a banquet for celebrating the anniversary in the evening.

http://www.kcna.co.jp/item/2008/200803/news03/31.htm#14

IACKS Newsletter

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 02:58:52 GMT

How to join the IACKS

If you wish to join IACKS, please open your own MSN Windows Live Space account and join. If you want to participate in the creation of IACKS set of rules, aims and principles, please write to me. I really need your help to formulate something meaningful.

IACKS's latest news:

- A Russian scholar of Korean Studies, Inna Pankina, has recently visited Pyongyang and met with scholars affiliated with Korean Association of Social Sciences (KASS) to discuss Songun politics. She says it was not very informative but still helpful in understanding North Korea.

- EHESS in Paris is inviting a couple of KASS scholars to France to participate in a seminar "The North Korean Views on Juche, and North-South Korean Interfaces" to be held in May 2008.

- After visiting North Korea in October-November 2007, Konrad Math, an ANU graduate student is preparing to start writing a thesis on Juche. He wants to contest T.Belke's opinion that Juche is as a political religion: http://www.nwfdailynews.com/article/4594/2.

- Negotiations with KASS about the dates for 2008 NK Study Tour will be commenced soon. The tentative time for travel is October 2008.

IACKS Coordinator for Australia
australia.korea@gmail.com

2008 North Korea Study Tour

Sat, 01 Mar 2008 13:01:30 GMT

Since 2007, the Australian National University has offered its graduate students and researchers a unique opportunity to visit and experience North Korea (DPRK) as a member of the North Korea Study Tour, led by Dr Leonid Petrov.

In 2008 Dr Petrov of the ANU is running the study tour again. If you are interested in joining this unique and intensive program, it is strongly recommended that you have some background knowledge of Korean language and/or history. A list of Korea related courses offered by the ANU in 2008 can be found on our courses page.

You will spend up to three weeks in North Korea, attending classes on philosophy, political science, economy, and social history. You will visit the main universities, libraries and museums of Pyongyang, tour the local factories, farms and markets, and visit Kaesong, Panmunjom (DMZ), Nampo and the Myohyang Mountains. At the completion of this Study Tour you will be awarded a Certificate issued by the Korean Association of Social Scientists and testifying your proficiency in the covered subjects. All classes, seminars and excursions are conducted in Korean and English. Participants are required to cover ONLY the cost of their air travel to/from Pyongyang and local transportation. North Korea Study Tours are usually organised in October-November and led by Dr. Leonid Petrov (RSPAS, ANU).

Preparations for the 2008 Study Tour are currently underway. The dates and conditions will be announced soon.

IACKS

Photo Album: 2007 NK Study Tour

Sat, 17 May 2008 05:36:18 GMT

2007 NK Study Tour

2007 NK Study Tour members visiting the Pyongyang Music University named after Kim Won-gyun. Guided by Mrs. Kim Yeong-suk, a former actress (starred as Ch'un Hyang in 1979) and currently a Manager at the University's Foreign Relations Department.

Seminar on NK Political Economy is conducted by Prof. Chang Jin-woo and translated by Ms. Choe Jeong-ae of the Korean Association of Social Scientists.

KASS Certificates are conferred on the participants of the Study Tour by Mr. Kim Chol-ho, Chief of International Organisations at the Asia-Oceania Region.

Visiting the Seonjuk Bridge in Kaesong

At the Kaesong Palace for Schoolchildren.

In front of the Korean National Art Museum, Pyongyang

Halloween party at the RAC bar in Munsudong (diplomatic quarters).

Seminar on the Socialist Economy is conducted by Prof. Yun Yong-nam and translated by Ms. Choe Jeong-ae of the Korean Association of Social Scientists.