The Korea Society

March 4, 2024 - Snowglobe by Soyoung Park, the first book in a powerful young adult dystopian duology, is a groundbreaking exploration of personal identity, and the future of the world as we know it. The winner of the Changbi X Kakaopage Young Adult Novel Award, the novel has been translated into English by Joungmin Lee Comfort, introducing a new readership to this cutting-edge commentary on climate change, socioeconomic inequality, and personal identity. Set in a frozen world, only the residents of Snowglobe have it all: fame, fortune, and, above all, safety from the bitter cold. Outside the domed city, citizens must face the –50-degree Fahrenheit temperatures to produce the energy that Snowglobe needs to run. Their only solace comes in the form of television programming developed from the 24/7 filming of those who live in Snowglobe. When Snowglobe’s biggest star and newly-minted weather announcer, Haeri, is found dead, look-alike Chobahm must take her place, getting the opportunity of a lifetime to join the residents inside. But she soon discovers that the society she’s idolized is hiding a frozen and dangerous heart. Snowglobe is a powerful and layered thrill ride containing a myriad of plot twists and a shocking ending that will keep readers eagerly awaiting its sequel. Join us for a conversation with the author and translator, moderated by Kat Cho, as they discuss the English publication of Snowglobe. For more information, please visit the link below: https://www.koreasociety.org/arts-culture/item/1782-snowglobe-with-soyoung-park-and-joungmin-lee-comfort

February 28, 2024 - Navigating the uncertainties of quitting an established career to venture into entrepreneurship is a common challenge for many aspiring startup founders. The question of when to take that leap adds another layer of complexity to the journey. To shed light on these dilemmas, we invite you to join our conversation with Curtis Lee, a seasoned startup founder, currently serving as the VP of Global Payments and Cash at Microsoft. Curtis embarked on his entrepreneurial path by founding Luxe, a premium valet and auto-concierge system, in 2013. After Luxe’s successful acquisition to Volvo Group, Curtis returned to the entrepreneurial arena with the launch of Pinwheel, a fintech specializing in payroll API, in 2021. During this discussion, Curtis will share the intricacies of how he charted his entrepreneurial path, strategically navigating tech giants, startups, and investment firms, to fulfill his aspirations. Additionally, Curtis will impart how his firsthand founding experience has transformed him into a more emphatic investor, particularly for early-stage startups in their foundational phases. Moderated by CeFaan Kim, correspondent for ABC News. This program is supported by Hanwha Life For more information, please visit the link below: https://www.koreasociety.org/policy-and-corporate-programs/item/1781-charting-entrepreneurial-paths-curtis-lee-from-luxe-to-pinwheel-and-beyond

Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins discusses deterring North Korea and the US-ROK Alliance, focusing on North Korea's evolving nuclear capabilities and ties with Russia. The podcast also explores the interconnected threats of North Korea and Russia, the challenges of potential conflicts in the Indo-Pacific, and the importance of youth engagement in addressing global challenges.

Discussions on heightened tensions in Korea from recent events, potential conflict risks, talks on Seoul's nuclear deterrent, and suggestions for de-escalation and diplomacy. Expert insights on Korean Peninsula affairs, evolving relationships with China and Russia, and strategies for peace-building. Analysis on North Korea's weapons program, accidental military clashes, and U.S. role in controlling escalation. Exploring China's foreign policy, potential conflicts in East Asia, and diplomatic relations with North Korea.

Author and translator discuss the surreal and chilling stories in 'Your Utopia', exploring themes of patriarchy, capitalism, and big tech. They delve into the essence of humanity through science fiction elements like robots and machines, the complexities of translating science fiction literature, and the unattainable ideal of utopia. The chapter also navigates the fame and challenges faced by the authors as their book gains international recognition.

Explore the journey of Saeju Jeong, co-founder of Noom, as he disrupts the weight loss industry with a mission-driven approach. Learn about the strategic pivots, leadership, and cultural impact at Noom, along with the speaker's personal journey from curiosity to a mission-driven entrepreneur. Discover the importance of having a clear mission in entrepreneurship and the challenges immigrant entrepreneurs face in New York City. Join the conversation on healthcare entrepreneurship, vision, and building confidence in the startup world.

Exploring topics like Korea's declining birth rates, mental health challenges, and cultural influences, the podcast delves into societal issues and solutions. Dr. Jim Yong Kim's journey in global health advocacy is highlighted, along with the fascination with Korean pop culture worldwide. The discussion includes collective efforts in Korean society, challenges of reunification with North Korea, and the need for addressing societal issues collectively.

The podcast explores the challenges faced by the U.S.-South Korea alliance, including the impact of nationalist leaders, domestic political polarization, and North Korea's influence. It discusses hypothetical scenarios, strategies for strengthening the alliance, and the complexities of trilateral relationships with Japan. The conversation delves into Korean autonomy, territorial disputes, nuclear concerns, and the importance of public education.

The podcast delves into the gripping stories of North Korean refugees risking their lives to escape oppression. It highlights the challenges faced by refugees integrating into society, the power of filmmaking to raise awareness, and the need for global action to address human rights violations. The Q&A session with producers and a North Korean defector sheds light on the importance of supporting those affected by humanitarian crises.

December 14, 2023 - How does the US public view America’s place in the world? How strong are the bonds between the US and Korea? Conversely, how does the Korean public view the United States as a partner and an ally? How are these views changing and what are the implications for global geopolitics, the US-Korea Alliance, and peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula? The expert panel includes: Troy Stangarone, Senior Director and Fellow at the Korea Economic Institute (KEI) and an author of KEI’s “2023 Report on American Attitudes Toward the Korean Peninsula,” Dina Smeltz, Senior Fellow, Public Opinion and Foreign Policy for the Chicago Council on Global Affairs and author of the survey report, “Americans Continue to See Benefits from US Alliances,” and Dr. Woo Chang Kang, associate professor in the Department of Politics and International Relations at Korea University, who will explore the implications for Korea of these recent surveys, as well as the equivalent surveys in Korea. The conversation is moderated by policy director Jonathan Corrado. For more information, please visit the link below: https://www.koreasociety.org/policy-and-corporate-programs/item/1747-is-sentiment-shifting-on-foreign-policy-alliances-and-the-us-korea-relationship