Songs of Love from Hawai‘i intricately weaves together three poignant stories from the rich history of the Korean diaspora in Hawai‘i, blending historical narratives with soul-stirring musical performances. The film explores the fascinating journey of Korean immigration to Hawai‘i, the emotional life of Lim Ok Soon, a picture bride, and a heartfelt musical tribute to the souls laid to rest in Molokai’s Kalaupapa, a leper colony.

Date: [November 7, 2025]

Time: 3:20pm-5:30pm EDT

Location: [Elliott School of International Affairs, Room 113] 1957 E St. NW

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The Grand Strategy of a Middling Power: A New Diplomatic History Approach to Early Modern Korean Relations with China

💡 “Grand Strategy” is often associated with Great Powers — those with the might to shape global systems. But what about middle powers?
This talk explores how Chosŏn Korea (ca. 1400–1600), in its relations with Ming China, practiced a subtle yet profound form of diplomacy. Moving beyond realpolitik, it reveals how Korea used cultural and institutional strategies to gradually reshape regional power structures — redefining what “grand strategy” can mean.

🎓 Join us as Sixiang Wang adopts a “New Diplomatic History” approach to the question by examining early modern Korean relations with Ming China (ca. 1400–1600). Rather than a realpolitik-centered analysis of diplomatic history, it focuses on the cultural strategies of Chosŏn Korea’s engagement with Ming China. In particular, addressing how Chosŏn Korea focused on slowly and gradually reshaping the hegemonic structures of its immediate diplomatic context. It points to political dynamics with long-term consequences that might be overlooked or discounted in traditional definitions of “Grand Strategy.”

Date: [November 7, 2025]

Time: 1:00pm-2:00pm EDT

Location: [Virtual via Zoom]

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