Call for Papers
Young Scholars Workshop
“Reimagining Korean Unification in a Transforming World:
Perspectives from India”
August 13-14, 2025
Concept Note
Despite eighty years of division, unification remains a recurring theme in the Korean Peninsula politics, shaping inter-Korean relations through cycles of conflict and cooperation, and influencing domestic agendas and regional international relations. While the urgency of unification has diminished in the 21st century due to new geopolitical realities and shifting priorities, the underlying concept persists, reflecting deep historical, social, and cultural underpinnings. Understanding the complex interplay of these enduring aspirations and contemporary challenges, including the new dimensions and discourses of unification, is crucial for navigating the emerging political and international order in the Korean Peninsula and the wider region. In this context, the Korea Centre at Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala, in collaboration with the UniKorea Foundation, South Korea, is organising a workshop for young scholars on the theme of Korean unification.
The workshop’s central goal is to foster critical analysis among young Indian scholars regarding the multifaceted dimensions of Korean unification—historical, political, economic, and cultural. Participants are also encouraged to evaluate the impact of pressing contemporary issues, including North Korea’s nuclear advancements, the strategic rivalry between the U.S. and China, and the regional order transformation in the Indo-Pacific. Furthermore, it seeks to critically evaluate the changing perception of key stakeholders in the Korean Peninsula, East Asia, and the wider world on the question of unification. It also aims to explore India’s historical involvement and potential future contributions to the Korean peace process, including its perspectives on unification.
The workshop will be led by prominent Korean and Indian scholars, offering participants direct engagement with leading experts in the field. Young Indian scholars are invited to submit paper proposals on topics related to Korean unification, including:
- Historical and Contemporary Developments: Discourses, ideas, and unification policies.
- Political and Diplomatic Dimensions: The role of regional and major powers and multilateral institutions.
- Economic Pathways: Economic integration and North Korea’s reconstruction.
- Cultural and Social Reconciliation: Overcoming ideological and political divides through soft power and social integration.
- Contemporary Issues: North Korea’s nuclear advancements, human rights concerns, and geopolitical developments.
- India’s Role: historical, contemporary and future roles in the Korean Peninsula
- Comparative Insights: Lessons from the Unification Experiences of Germany, Vietnam, and other historical cases.
- Future Visions: Reimagining a unified Korea and Its Global Impact.
Guidelines
The workshop is open to young Indian scholars (under 35) pursuing a PhD or working in think tanks or research institutes in India; MA students with a strong interest in Korean Studies research are invited to submit a proposal. Proposals for conference presentations should include a title, abstract (max. 300 words), and a CV. Selected applicants are expected to submit a paper before the workshop (3000 words including references). Selected papers will be considered for publication by the Korea Centre. You may submit the proposal by email (kcmguworkshop@gmail.com)
Important Dates
- Abstract Submission/CV: May 10, 2025
- Announcement of Selected Candidates: May 15, 2025
- Paper Submission: June 20, 2025
- Workshop Date: August 13-14, 2025
Travel and Accommodation:
The workshop will be held at Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala. Selected participants will receive travel support (within India) to the university, as well as two days of accommodation.