Indeed, I feel honored and optimistic-although somewhat guarded-to be stepping into the directorship at a time when our world faces so much uncertainty. Pillars of global finance have been fractured. Climate change has become a fearsome reality. Insecurities over nuclear proliferation, sustainable energy, and national welfare have deepened. More locally, inter-Korean relations have ground to a near halt and the North Korean nuclear issue remains at large. All these issues, and others, require cooperative, far-sighted, and strained responses of the private and public sectors from nations great and small.
With so much uncertainty, the responsibilities of a research institute like IFES become clear. We understand our actions import a great deal. As we search for solutions to these many problems that Korea, Asia, and the world face, IFES will continue its commitment to promoting research and programs that improve our understanding of North Korea and how to enhance peace on the Korean Peninsula. We will continue to make available information and analysis via our Korean and English language websites and our journal publications like Asian Perspective (now listed on the SSCI) and its companion website, AsianPerspective.org. We will continue to promote discourse and debate on issues of interest and importance to the Korean Peninsula, Asia, and the greater international community through our various colloquiums, conferences, lectures and seminars. And we will continue to nurture our partnerships and expand our networks so that the minds we cultivate, the knowledge we provide, and the discussions we promote can in turn be put to work to better our environment, advance peace in and among our societies, and improve our world.
The times ahead promise to be challenging, if not exciting. We at IFES look forward to the challenges ahead, and welcome your thoughts, suggestions, and support as we try to meet them.
Su-Hoon Lee, Ph.D.
Director
March 1, 2009
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