About KPAC

The Korean Peninsula Affairs Center (KPAC) is an interdisciplinary research center within the Maxwell School’s Moynihan Institute of Global Affairs. KPAC, with support from the Pacific Century Institute, is committed to studying and addressing contemporary issues of public policy and governance affecting the Korean Peninsula. Through its global network of scholars and practitioners, KPAC encourages public discourse and enhances knowledge by hosting conferences, publishing relevant research, and educating undergraduate and graduate students through Korea-focused courses and academic exchanges. KPAC’s research reflects the diverse interests of its affiliated faculty, research fellows, and graduate students. Among these interests are public diplomacy, local and national government administration, foreign policy, economic policy, the environment, conflict resolution, North-South relations, and science engagement. KPAC aims to develop conversation, cooperation, and understanding regarding North and South Korea.

Contact KPAC with questions, comments, or suggestions at KPAC@maxwell.syr.edu 

The political division on the Korean Peninsula reflects some of the last visible remnants of last century’s Cold War. The recent death of North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Il, has again focused U.S. media attention on the security implications of this division. Both South Korea and the U.S. will hold elections to select their leaders in 2012. The significance of these events for all three countries is without question. In this regard, KPAC is pleased to have active programs involving both the South and the North. My expectation is that through open academic study, analysis, exchange, and discussion, KPAC can help to bring about greater awareness, understanding, and appreciation of one of the most historically rich, culturally engaging, and politically significant places on earth—the Korean Peninsula. I urge you to join us in this exploration!