On February 24, 2021, the Institute for Far Eastern Studies held a colloquium in conjunction with its Academic Exchange Support Program for North Korean and Unification Studies.
 
At the colloquium, two of the program’s research fellows -- Dr. Anastasia Barannikova (Russia) and Mr. Peter Moody (USA), both who began their fellowships in September 2020 -- made presentations on their research achievements to date.
 
In a paper presentation entitled “New Approaches to Nuclear DPRK,” Dr. Barannikova discussed the myths surrounding North Korea’s nuclear development and the country’s nuclear posture, and as well made recommendations for how relevant political actors can avoid worst case scenarios by adopting new approaches to solving the nuclear issue on the Korean peninsula.
 
Mr. Moody presented a paper titled “Can the US Learn from South Korea's Reconciliation Policies?: A Diplomatic Outcome Analysis of Inter-Korean Separated Family Reunions and Music Exchanges,” which analyzes ‘music diplomacy’ within the inter-Korean relations as well as aspects of North Korea’s utilization of cultural diplomacy historically as a means to engage foreign counterparts, and suggests lessons for the new Biden administration as it considers diplomatic initiatives to possibly reengage the DPRK.
 
Following the presentations, Director Lee Kwan-Sei of IFES presented Dr. Barannikova with a certificate of completion of the fellowship program. Director Lee said, “This institute aims to create a good research environment for its fellows and draw results in accordance with the program’s purpose of forming an international consensus for peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula. We will further strengthen our support for this program.”