Tell us about your career journey.
I worked as a newspaper journalist for 10 years at Donga Ilbo covering social conflicts and issues in Korean society during the democratization period. Witnessing various and sometimes violent democratic movements in Korea, I felt frustrated for the lack of experts in handling these conflicts, which led me to study conflict resolution at George Mason University. After completing my Masters and PhD degrees at Mason, I became a certified mediator by the Supreme Court of Virginia. Upon my return to Korea, I worked as an advisor to then President Roh Moo-hyun to support his efforts in establishing policies around conflict resolution and also taught courses at Sungkyunkwan University. Currently, I serve on several committees such as KEPCO’s Conflict Management Deliberation Committee, and work with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Mayor’s office of Jeju City to provide advice on mutually acceptable resolutions to their disputes between organizations, governments and individuals.
What was the highlight of your Mason experience?
My time studying conflict resolution at George Mason University was filled with memorable experiences. Working on real cases, with access to extensive data from the school, sparked my interest in the subject. Over the course of seven years for both my Masters and PhD degrees, I had the pleasure of learning from some excellent professors. One of them, Professor Richard Rubenstein, a Harvard graduate, I found quite for his viewpoint of social issues.. I also found his teaching style engaging and felt he appreciated my efforts as well. Another professor who left a lasting impression on me was Chris Mitchell, an international politics scholar from England who may have been already in his late 70s but remained active and energetic in both his teaching and research. His iconic mustache and reputation in the field of international relations were well known and highly respected. Also, as someone who had two very different campus experiences, one from Korea especially during the country’s darkest time and another one from the US, I can tell you that I very much enjoyed and appreciated the ways American or western professors taught and engaged with students. During my time at Mason, I found it easier to have authentic dialogues and keep in touch with my professors, as opposed to those in Korea.
What is your career advice for Mason students or alumni who may consider working in Korea?
Cherish your time in college! It's a unique period in your life that you won't experience again. I studied sociology at Seoul National University and my college years in Korea were overshadowed by dark political movements such as the Gwangju Democratization Movement, so I didn’t have a chance to experience the typical romantic and carefree college life. Secondly, as Albert Einstein said, “Try not to become a man of success. Rather, become a man of value.” I believe that bringing value to others and to your society is how you can bring success your way. The work that I do as a conflict resolution mediator or advisor brings me a great sense of fulfillment and service.
What does the future hold for you?
Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of visiting the Mason Korea campus to deliver a lecture and meet with alumni and current students who are part of the ESG study group organized by alum Huiyong Kim (’18 Global Affairs). It was a wonderful experience to engage in discussions with them on this topic and witness their genuine interest in making the world a more balanced place. As a director at the Korea Institute for Conflict Resolution, I am committed to continuing my mentorship of young people and students. It brings me great satisfaction to help those facing difficult situations and guide them towards beneficial solutions. The work not only benefits them but also provides me with personal growth and fulfillment.
April 18, 2023
