June 22-23, 2023 | Washington, D.C.

Deadline: May 1, 2023

Given the dangerous escalation of tensions on the Korean Peninsula, coupled with a current absence of diplomatic engagement, more students and young professionals are closely watching in anticipation of what may or may not happen next. However, knowing where to find clear-eyed analysis and primary-source information on North Korea is not simple, and there are few professional development opportunities for those seeking to begin a career working on North Korea-related issues.

In order to help fill this gap, the National Committee on North Korea’s “Knowing North Korea” Program will provide graduate students and young professionals with a comprehensive overview of critical topics related to North Korea, as well as an introduction to practical skill sets that can be beneficial to a career in North Korea-focused analysis and research. The program will include a two-day conference featuring workshops and discussions with North Korea specialists and policy professionals and is structured to provide opportunities to connect with U.S. government officials in the Executive Branch and Congress. The 2023 agenda aims to take a closer look at a number of hot-button issues - including sanctions, nuclear development, and the DPRK's foreign relations - and assesses prospects for success with future U.S. diplomacy efforts. 

Selected participants may be eligible to receive domestic roundtrip airfare and hotel accommodations for the duration of the two-day program. Students outside of the United States may also be eligible to receive an additional travel allowance. Interested candidates from outside of the Washington, D.C. metro area are particularly encouraged to apply. 

PARTICIPANT SELECTION CRITERIA

Participation will generally be limited to graduate students or recent graduates (Class of 2022 or later). Qualified applicants will have: 

• Demonstrated interest in the Korean Peninsula, Northeast Asia, or related subject matter. An academic/professional background in Korean affairs, as shown by coursework, academic research, publications, internships, language training, etc. will be favorably viewed. 

• A planned career trajectory which may include an emphasis on Korean affairs (either academic or policy oriented), or more broadly on issues such as nuclear nonproliferation, economic development, human rights, and/or the consideration of these issues within the dynamics of Northeast Asia.

We would particularly welcome applicants who:  

• Have a demonstrated record of support for principled engagement as a means to address security, humanitarian, and other issues on the Korean Peninsula.

• Are based outside of the Washington DC metro area or who otherwise haven’t had the opportunity to gain extensive experience working or studying in and around DC.

HOW TO APPLY

A complete application will include the following four items:  

• An Application Form 

• A resume or Curriculum Vitae

• Letter of Interest that addresses the following questions (500 words max)

  • Why are you interested in participating in the Knowing North Korea workshop?

  • Please describe your main areas of research or professional interest in North Korea and/or Northeast Asia (i.e., nuclear nonproliferation, Korean War POW/MIA human remains issues, divided families, human rights, general Korean history, economics and trade, etc)

• One reference, submitted directly to [email protected]

Applicants should send all completed application materials in PDF format to [email protected] by May 1, 2023. In your submission email, please use the subject line  “2023 NCNK Workshop Application – First and Last Name”.