On 1 November, the Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) welcomed a distinguished assembly of scholars, initiating a bold new phase in international academic cooperation. Among the prominent guests were Seunrae Kim, Head of the Institute of Russian Studies at Hankuk University in Korea, and Damrin Youn, professor at the Eurasian Research Institute at Hanshin University. The discussions witnessed active participation from Mr. Shakhboz Akhmedov, Deputy Director of IAIS, Professor Valeriy Khan, Head of the Korean Studies programme, Mekhriniso Abdurasulova, an expert at the Centre for Asia-Pacific Studies, and Jeon Hongpyo, IAIS Visiting Research Fellow. This meeting underscored the importance of this historic meeting, aimed at pioneering a transformative research initiative to cultivate a novel model of relations between South Korea and Central Asia.
Against the backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions, particularly due to recent military actions in Ukraine, this collaborative effort seeks to develop strategies that mitigate the resulting socio-economic and diplomatic strains within the Central Asian region. With a shared focus on exploring avenues to ease the ripple effects of these crises, the project envisions a recalibrated framework that strengthens resilience and nurtures sustainable development across borders.
Central to the deliberations was the blueprint for an ambitious project to establish a “Central Asia + Korea” scholarly journal, abbreviated as “C5+Korea”. This publication format, anticipated as a premier platform for academic exchange, aims to enrich knowledge-sharing between South Korean and Central Asian scholars, covering topics from diplomacy and economic cooperation to cultural studies and sustainable development. The pioneering “C5+Korea” journal initiative is expected to inspire robust dialogue, bridging the knowledge gap between these dynamic regions and fostering a deeper understanding of their shared challenges and aspirations.
The meeting mared a pivotal moment as IAIS and the Eurasian Research Institute Hanshin formalised their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), symbolising a significant step toward enhanced academic synergy and collaboration. This newly forged alliance sets the stage for future joint initiatives that will bring fresh perspectives and solutions to long-standing regional challenges. The signing of the MoU represents not only a formalisation of this vital partnership but also a profound commitment to nurturing an era of enriched scholarly discourse and innovation. IAIS and the Eurasian Research Institute look forward to leveraging this partnership to advance research that aligns with the strategic interests of both South Korea and Central Asia, reaffirming their dedication to fostering sustainable peace and regional stability.
