On December 20, the Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS), in collaboration with the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED), successfully held a workshop titled “Uzbekistan-Korea Relations: Past, Present, and Perspectives in the Context of Global Challenges”. This event was a key milestone in IAIS’s project on Uzbekistan-Korea relations, supported by the Korean Foundation.

The workshop focused on analysing the multifaceted ties between Uzbekistan and Korea, spanning political, economic, social, cultural, and diaspora dimensions. Through presentations and discussions, participants reflected on historical connections, examined current cooperation, and proposed innovative solutions to strengthen the bilateral partnership amidst global challenges.

The event commenced with opening remarks from Dr. Akram Umarov, First Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs at UWED, and Dr. Oh Nam Hyun, President of the Peaceful Unification Advisory Council of the Republic of Korea. Keynote speeches followed, including an insightful presentation by Prof. Valeriy Khan, Head of the Korean Studies Programme at UWED, on the evolving global context of Korea-Uzbekistan relations, and a review by Ms. Mekhriniso Abdurasulova, Head of the Japan Studies Programme at IAIS, highlighting the project’s research achievements.

Panel discussions covered crucial aspects of bilateral relations, including:

• Political cooperation, presented by Mr. Abbos Bobokhonov, Head of the Centre for Asia-Pacific Studies at IAIS;
• Economic collaboration, discussed by Dr. Laylo Tashpulatova, Head of Department at UWED;
• Social interaction, explored by Hamza Boltaev, Head of the Centre for Afghanistan and South Asian Studies at IAIS;
• Cultural exchanges, co-presented by Ms. Abdurasulova and Mr. Jeon Hongpyo, KF Visiting Research Fellow at IAIS;
• Educational ties, analysed by Dr. Olga Khan, emphasising the growing academic partnerships between Uzbekistan and Korea.

The workshop concluded with remarks by Prof. Valeriy Khan, summarising the discussions and outlining future directions for collaboration. Participants underscored the importance of strengthening academic, economic, and cultural ties while addressing shared challenges such as regional stability and sustainable development.

This workshop not only facilitated robust dialogue among leading scholars and practitioners but also underscored the role of IAIS in fostering international academic collaboration. The outcomes of the workshop will contribute to a forthcoming publication that captures the key insights and recommendations, further advancing understanding and cooperation between Uzbekistan and Korea.