This spring, the Asian Affairs Center and Institute for Korean Studies (IKS) hosted a panel of experts to discuss contemporary political events reshaping South Korea. 

Presented as a panel discussion, “South Korea in Turmoil: Examining Impeachment, Martial Law, and Democratic Resilience,” was moderated by Sang Kim, Director of Mizzou’s Asian Affairs Center. The panelists included Seungkwon You, associate director of IKS and Associate Teaching Professor of Korean Studies; Sangjoon Ka, visiting scholar at the Truman School of Government and Public Affairs; and Benjamin Engel (BA ‘05), professor at Danbrook University. 

During the discussion, Kim and panelists delved into the complexities of martial law declarations, the impeachment of South Korea’s president, and the resilience of democracy during times of crisis — giving attendees a deeper understanding of these historic developments.

The event was co-sponsored by the Gateway Korea Foundation (GKF), an organization that provides opportunities to learn about and experience Korean culture. Based in St. Louis, Missouri, GKF draws from communities across the Midwest to nurture a greater understanding and appreciation for Korean culture.