On July 5, 2023, Korea Centre Director Dr. Jojin V John had a meeting with the President of Yeungnam University, Prof. CHOI Oe-chool. They embarked on a discussion that centered around the significance of academic cooperation between India and Korea, academic exchange between Mahatma Gandhi University and Yeungnam University, the potential for the Korea Centre to become a hub of Saemaul Undong Studies, and the prospects for development cooperation between India and Korea. Prof. Lee Jeong-ju and Dr. Afzal Khan from the Department of Saemaul and International Development at Yeungnam University were also present.
A pivotal topic of the conversation was the importance of academic cooperation for India-Korea relations. Both the Korea Centre Director and Prof. CHOI Oe-chool underscored the need to foster deeper ties through academic cooperation, recognizing the role of education as a cornerstone for building stronger diplomatic ties and cross-cultural understanding.
On the topic of academic exchange between Mahatma Gandhi University and Yeungnam University, all parties were optimistic about the potential. These exchanges will not only provide opportunities for students and faculty to broaden their horizons but also serve as a platform for sharing knowledge and fostering a mutual understanding between the two nations.
The meeting also touched on the possibility of the Korea Centre evolving into a hub for Saemaul Undong Studies. This potential transformation could enhance the understanding and appreciation of Saemaul Undong’s role in Korea’s rapid development, and possibly its application in India’s context. Such an initiative would facilitate academic and practical discourse on this model of community-driven development.
Lastly, the potential for development cooperation between India and Korea was brought up. All parties agreed that this kind of cooperation could help address common challenges and enhance bilateral relations. Prof. CHOI Oe-chool, Prof. Lee Jeong-ju, and Dr. Afzal Khan were particularly enthusiastic about contributing their expertise in Saemaul and International Development towards this initiative.