DAY 1

Session 1 titled "The U.S. Presidential Election and its Implication for International Relations" begins by analyzing how the election results might influence global and regional power matrix, particularly with significant implications for geopolitical and geo-economic transformation. It explores the direction and scope of potential shifts in U.S. foreign and security policy under the new administration. It will cover critical issues like trade and economic security, security partnerships, and global agendas, with special attention to U.S.-China relations and diverse geopolitical tensions. Challenges and risks to the Indo-Pacific region, including South Korea will be discussed. In response to these developments, the session examines South Korea’s possible foreign and security policy options vis-à-vis U.S, China and other key players, to enhance peace and stability in the region. Strengthening trilateral cooperation with the U.S. and Japan and with China and Japan can will be discussed to complement bilateral efforts.

| Speakers

Daniel Russel 

Former US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific affairs

Yun Byung-se

Former Minister of Foreign Affairs. Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Seoul International Law Academy (SILA)

SHIN, Beomcheol 

Senior Research Fellow at the Sejong Institute, Former Vice Defense Minister of National Defense

Kim Jae-chun

Dean of the Graduate School of International Studies (GSIS) at Sogang University

Li Cheng

Professor of political science at the University of Hong Kong, Former Director at the Brookings Institution’s China Center

Session 2 titled "The U.S. Presidential Election and its Implication for the Korean Peninsula" begins with an examination of U.S. Presidential Election outcomes and their potential to reshape American foreign policy, particularly regarding North Korea and the Korean Peninsula, by reviewing historical patterns and strategies of past administrations. It explores potential changes in U.S. policy based on recent campaign promises and statements, focusing on their impact on denuclearization, military alliances, and U.S. military presence in the region. Attention then shifts to South Korea's strategic position, evaluating how its diplomatic, economic, and security interests may align or conflict with the new U.S. administration's policies, and considering the implications for inter-Korean relations, including peace talks and economic cooperation. Insights from experts provide various predictions on regional stability and security, leading to discussions on strategies for South Korea to adapt its foreign policy through alliances, multilateral diplomacy, or increased defense self-reliance. The session will encourage interactive dialogue to equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of the strategic considerations and potential future of U.S.-Korea relations.

| Speakers

Kent Calder

Professor of Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS)

Nam Sung-wook

Director of the Institute for National Unification and Convergence at Korea University

Chung Young-soon 

Professor of the Academy of Korean Studies

Brian Reynolds Myers

Professor of Department of International Studies at Dongseo University

Session 3 titled "Presidential Leadership in an Era of Global and Domestic Divergence" will delve into the theme exploring the strategic qualities and approaches necessary for South Korea's head of state in today's complex geopolitical and domestic environment. In a world characterized by shifting global alliances, technological advancements, and economic uncertainties, alongside domestic challenges such as polarized public opinion and socio-economic disparities, this gathering will assess the essential leadership traits required to navigate these uncertainties. The session will emphasize the importance of visionary leadership that can harmonize international interests with national priorities, foster innovation, and drive socio-economic resilience. The session will feature former chiefs of staff from past Korean administrations, who will share their experiences and insights.

| Speakers

Kang Won-Taek 

Professor of the Department of Political Science and International Relations at Seoul National University

Bahk, Jaewan 

President of Hansun Foundation, Former Minister of Economy and Finance Dean 

Jeon Yoon-cheol 

Former Chief of staff(Kim Dae-jung) 

Huh Tae-yeol 

Former Chief of staff(Park Geun-hye) 

Seong Kyoung-Ryung  

Former Director of National Policy(Roh Moo-hyun), President of Sangji University 

Baek Yong-ho 

Former Director of National Policy(Lee Myung-bak),

Emeritus Professor of Ewha Womans University

Sub-session:

What is South Korea's strategic choice in a turbulent international security landscape?


As the U.S.-China strategic competition intensifies and the war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas War breaks out in quick succession, the post-Cold War era is over and the international security landscape is reentering a turbulent era.

This session will present the prospects for Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which has had the most significant impact on Europe's security order since the breakup of the Soviet Union, and the Israel-Hamas War, which could escalate into an all-out war between Israel and Arab countries in the already unstable Middle East, and discuss where South Korea should stand.

The session will also examine the possibility of a military conflict on the Korean Peninsula and in the Taiwan Strait, which have emerged as areas of critical geopolitical tension in East Asia. We will discuss in depth how South Korea should respond in the event of the Taiwan contingency and explore strategies to resolve the North Korean nuclear crisis.

| Speakers

Seung Chae Kim 

Secretary-General of the Seoul Peace Prize Cultural Foundation

Soo Hyung LEE 

Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for National Security Strategy (NISS)

IN Nam-Sik 

Professor of the Korea National Diplomatic Academy

Dongchan KIM 

Assistant Professor of Graduate School of International Studies at Yonsei University

Cho, Namhoon 

Senior Research Fellow of Korea Institute for Defense Analyzes (KIDA)

Sub-session:

Gastro-diplomacy : Korean food has captivated the world’s palate


Recently, Korean cuisine has become a major culinary trend worldwide, celebrated for both its popularity and unique flavors. Interest in Korean food has now evolved from merely experiencing Korean dishes to a deeper curiosity about Korean culture and lifestyle. It has become common to find Korean foods like kimchi and bulgogi in major supermarkets in the U.S. and food stores across Europe.

Global curiosity is expanding from the flavors of Korean food to the culture surrounding it. Is this trend a result of long-standing efforts to globalize Korean cuisine, or is it a phenomenon fueled by the success of K-Content? Korean food has become more than just a cuisine—it is now a cultural bridge, allowing people around the world to experience Korea more intimately.

A prime example of culinary culture shaping national image and fostering cultural understanding is France. Through "gastro-diplomacy," France has promoted its distinctive cuisine, blending tradition with modernity, around the world, even securing its food culture as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage to enhance the prestige of French gastronomy. In 2022, France registered the baguette as a cultural symbol with UNESCO, sharing its unique food heritage globally. France has also designated four culinary cities, where a range of gastronomic events are held to promote tourism and economic growth centered around food.

This session will explore the strategies for K-Food to establish itself as a globally embraced cuisine and a sustainable cultural movement, drawing on examples from France’s and Korea’s culinary diplomacy.

 

| Speakers

Bruno Laurioux 

Professor of Tours University in France

Yoon Yu-kyung

Professor of Culinary Arts at Woosong University

Lee Byung-woo

Professor of Food Science and Nutrition at Yongin University, Master Chefs

Lee Yun-hwa

CEO of food magazine Diaryal, Food Columnist

Kim Do-yun 

Michelin Guide 1 star Owner Chef of Yoon Seoul



DAY 1


Session 1 titled "The U.S. Presidential Election and its Implication for International Relations" begins by analyzing how the election results might influence global and regional power matrix, particularly with significant implications for geopolitical and geo-economic transformation. It explores the direction and scope of potential shifts in U.S. foreign and security policy under the new administration. It will cover critical issues like trade and economic security, security partnerships, and global agendas, with special attention to U.S.-China relations and diverse geopolitical tensions. Challenges and risks to the Indo-Pacific region, including South Korea will be discussed. In response to these developments, the session examines South Korea’s possible foreign and security policy options vis-à-vis U.S, China and other key players, to enhance peace and stability in the region. Strengthening trilateral cooperation with the U.S. and Japan and with China and Japan can will be discussed to complement bilateral efforts.


| Speakers

Daniel Russel 

Former US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific affairs

Yun Byung-se

Former Minister of Foreign Affairs. Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Seoul International Law Academy (SILA)

SHIN, Beomcheol

Senior Research Fellow at the Sejong Institute, Former Vice Defense Minister of National Defense

Kim Jae-chun

Dean of the Graduate School of International Studies (GSIS) at Sogang University

Li Cheng

Professor of political science at the University of Hong Kong, Former Director at the Brookings Institution’s China Center

  


Session 2 titled "The U.S. Presidential Election and its Implication for the Korean Peninsula" begins with an examination of U.S. Presidential Election outcomes and their potential to reshape American foreign policy, particularly regarding North Korea and the Korean Peninsula, by reviewing historical patterns and strategies of past administrations. It explores potential changes in U.S. policy based on recent campaign promises and statements, focusing on their impact on denuclearization, military alliances, and U.S. military presence in the region. Attention then shifts to South Korea's strategic position, evaluating how its diplomatic, economic, and security interests may align or conflict with the new U.S. administration's policies, and considering the implications for inter-Korean relations, including peace talks and economic cooperation. Insights from experts provide various predictions on regional stability and security, leading to discussions on strategies for South Korea to adapt its foreign policy through alliances, multilateral diplomacy, or increased defense self-reliance. The session will encourage interactive dialogue to equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of the strategic considerations and potential future of U.S.-Korea relations.

| Speakers

Kent Calder

Professor of Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS)

Nam Sung-wook

Director of the Institute for National Unification and Convergence at Korea University

Chung Young-soon

Professor of the Academy of Korean Studies

Brian Reynolds Myers

Professor of Department of International Studies at Dongseo University


Session 3 titled "Presidential Leadership in an Era of Global and Domestic Divergence" will delve into the theme exploring the strategic qualities and approaches necessary for South Korea's head of state in today's complex geopolitical and domestic environment. In a world characterized by shifting global alliances, technological advancements, and economic uncertainties, alongside domestic challenges such as polarized public opinion and socio-economic disparities, this gathering will assess the essential leadership traits required to navigate these uncertainties. The session will emphasize the importance of visionary leadership that can harmonize international interests with national priorities, foster innovation, and drive socio-economic resilience. The session will feature former chiefs of staff from past Korean administrations, who will share their experiences and insights.

| Speakers

Kang Won-Taek

Professor of the Department of Political Science and International Relations at Seoul National University

Bahk, Jaewan

President of Hansun Foundation, Former Minister of Economy and Finance 

Huh Tae-yeol

Former Chief of staff(Park Geun-hye)

Jeon Yoon-cheol

Former Chief of staff(Kim Dae-jung)

Seong Kyoung-Ryung

Former Director of National Policy(Roh Moo-hyun), President of Sangji University

Baek Yong-ho

Former Director of National Policy (Lee Myung-bak), Emeritus Professor of Ewha Womans University



Sub-session:

What is South Korea's strategic choice in a turbulent international security landscape?

 


As the U.S.-China strategic competition intensifies and the war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas War breaks out in quick succession, the post-Cold War era is over and the international security landscape is reentering a turbulent era.

This session will present the prospects for Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which has had the most significant impact on Europe's security order since the breakup of the Soviet Union, and the Israel-Hamas War, which could escalate into an all-out war between Israel and Arab countries in the already unstable Middle East, and discuss where South Korea should stand.

The session will also examine the possibility of a military conflict on the Korean Peninsula and in the Taiwan Strait, which have emerged as areas of critical geopolitical tension in East Asia. We will discuss in depth how South Korea should respond in the event of the Taiwan contingency and explore strategies to resolve the North Korean nuclear crisis.

| Speakers

Seung Chae Kim

Secretary-General, The Seoul Peace Prize Cultural Foundation

Soo Hyung LEE

Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for National Security Strategy(NISS)

IN Nam-Sik

Professor of the Korea National Diplomatic Academy

Dongchan KIM

Assistant Professor of Graduate School of International Studies at Yonsei University

Cho, Namhoon

Senior Research Fellow of Korea Institute for Defense Analyzes(KIDA)

  



Sub-session:

Gastro-diplomacy : Korean food has captivated the world’s palate

 


Recently, Korean cuisine has become a major culinary trend worldwide, celebrated for both its popularity and unique flavors. Interest in Korean food has now evolved from merely experiencing Korean dishes to a deeper curiosity about Korean culture and lifestyle. It has become common to find Korean foods like kimchi and bulgogi in major supermarkets in the U.S. and food stores across Europe.

Global curiosity is expanding from the flavors of Korean food to the culture surrounding it. Is this trend a result of long-standing efforts to globalize Korean cuisine, or is it a phenomenon fueled by the success of K-Content? Korean food has become more than just a cuisine—it is now a cultural bridge, allowing people around the world to experience Korea more intimately.

A prime example of culinary culture shaping national image and fostering cultural understanding is France. Through "gastro-diplomacy," France has promoted its distinctive cuisine, blending tradition with modernity, around the world, even securing its food culture as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage to enhance the prestige of French gastronomy. In 2022, France registered the baguette as a cultural symbol with UNESCO, sharing its unique food heritage globally. France has also designated four culinary cities, where a range of gastronomic events are held to promote tourism and economic growth centered around food.

This session will explore the strategies for K-Food to establish itself as a globally embraced cuisine and a sustainable cultural movement, drawing on examples from France’s and Korea’s culinary diplomacy.

| Speakers

Bruno Laurioux

Professor of Tours University in France

Yoon Yugyeoeng

Professor of Culinary Arts at Woosong University

Lee Byung-woo

Professor of Food Science and Nutrition at Yongin University, Master Chef

Lee Yun-hwa

CEO of food magazine Diaryal, Food Columnist

Kim Do-yun

Michelin Guide 1 star Owner Chef of Yoon Seoul