The rise of K-dramas as a global streaming phenomenon has transformed the politics of entertainment–bridging cultural divides and fostering cross-cultural exchanges. This colloquium explores the transcultural dimensions of K-dramas, focusing on how they present, represent, and translate various cultures, peoples, and languages across diverse streaming platforms (i.e. Netflix, Hulu, and podcasts). Our presenters will examine the evolution of narrative techniques, global circulation of emotions, history of consumerism and product placement, homosocial eroticism, and the impact of these dramas on global audiences. By situating K-dramas within the broader framework of transcultural communication, this year’s colloquium underscores their significance in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in an increasingly interconnected world, ultimately aiming to contribute to the discourse on global media, cultural identity, and the evolving nature of storytelling in the digital age.

Date: [October 24, 2025]

Location: [Lindner Commons, Room 602, Elliott School of International Affairs OR Virtual via Zoom]

Program Brochure

The U.S.–ROK alliance faces new challenges and opportunities under the Trump and Lee administrations, as both countries seek to modernize their security partnership while navigating shifting regional and global dynamics. Issues such as the transfer of operational control (Op-Con), the evolution of deterrence strategies, and the implications of U.S.–China strategic competition underscore the complexity of the alliance’s future. At the same time, trilateral cooperation with Japan, changing security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific, and emerging domains such as technology and supply chain security are reshaping the policy agenda for Washington and Seoul. The Institute for Korean Studies at the George Washington University and the Research Institute for National Security Affairs at the Korea National Defense University warmly invite you to join us for this timely Korea Policy Forum. The event will bring together leading scholars to assess how the Trump–Lee administrations are shaping the trajectory of the U.S.–ROK alliance and to explore its broader implications for regional security and strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific. 

Date: [October 28, 2025]

Time: 2pm-3:30pm EDT

Location: [School of Media and Public Affairs, Room 310, OR Virtual via Zoom]

Program Brochure

The United States and South Korea are at the forefront of artificial intelligence (AI) research, development, and industrial application. Both countries have announced new initiatives—the Trump administration’s AI Action Plan in Washington and the Lee administration’s pledge to expand cooperation in AI, nuclear energy, shipbuilding, and semiconductors—signaling their shared commitment to technological leadership. At the same time, rapid advancements in AI across the globe are reshaping the competitive and strategic environment.

This panel discussion will explore the following central question: What are the opportunities and challenges that the U.S. and South Korea may face as they further develop their AI partnership? By bringing together leading voices from government, industry, and academia, the event will examine how the two allies can build a durable and mutually beneficial U.S.–ROK Strategic AI Partnership, strengthen innovation ecosystems, and address global governance and security concerns arising from AI’s rapid evolution.

Date: [November 4, 2025]

Time: 1pm-2:30pm EDT

Location: [Elliott School of International Affairs, Lindner Commons, Room 602, OR Virtual via Zoom]

Program Brochure