North America

In this episode, Korean Kontext spoke to Korean-American actor Steven Yeun.  Having acted in several high profile TV shows, Yeun’s interest in acting originated during his freshman year at Kalamazoo College after watching…

On Friday January 13, the Korea Economic Institute (KEI) celebrated Korean American day at the Newseum, in Washington, DC.  As part of the celebration, KEI recognized three Korean-American pioneers in…

This episode features a conversation with Sam Yoon, Executive Director of the National Alliance of Community Economic Development Associations (NACEDA). Prior to his work with NACEDA, Sam served on the…

In this episode we hear from Korean-American filmmaker Michael Kang, who made his directorial debut at the 2005 Sundance Film Festival with The Motel, which was awarded the Humanitas Prize…

Commentators have pointed to the “Trump Effect” for falling international student enrollment in the U.S. higher education sector. When taking a closer look at student mobility trends from South Korea,…

KEI’s 2020 Report on American Attitudes Toward the Korean Peninsula focuses on U.S. views on relations with South Korea, U.S. awareness of South Korean brands and cultural products, and views…

The 2012 electi on saw the rising prominence of Korean Americans as an increasingly visible force in U.S. politi cs. This paper discusses key features of the Korean American vote,…

The Secretary of State has the responsibility to designate countries as state sponsors of terrorism. This document outlines the legal framework, background, and applications of the State Sponsor of Terrorism…

The 2024 US presidential election loomed large as a decisive factor potentially reshaping the bilateral relationship between South Korea and the United States. Before the election, many observers noted the challenges for South Korea’s economy and security in the event of a Trump victory. While some of these concerns may be warranted, a survey conducted…

Asia specialist David I. Steinberg passed away on December 5, 2024, at the age of 96. David had deep roots in the DC-based community of Asianists with the Mansfield Center for Pacific Affairs and at Georgetown University. David’s wide-ranging responsibilities included over 25 years of service on the board of the Korea Economic Institute of…

The US House of Representatives adopted the North Korean Human Rights Reauthorization Act on November 20. The original act was first adopted by Congress in 2004, but such legislation is valid for only four or five years. Congress must “reauthorize” or adopt new legislation if the provisions are still needed. The original North Korean Human…

Americans will soon elect a new presidential administration, which means potential changes for an array of US policies. In recent years, Washington has aligned its economic policies to coordinate with like-minded partners on supply chains and economic security, advanced technology development and safety, and decarbonization and clean economy standards. With a host of initiatives still…