British Association of Korean Studies (BAKS)
2014 Conference, November 21–23
to be convened at the University of Sheffield

From the birth of modern Korea, the Korean people have been prominently entwined with and influential upon global events, but this may not be completely new. As the cultural, political, and economic influence of contemporary Korea on the globe continues to grow, we propose a Conference to discuss the flow of influence in both directions. In Europe, North America, and around East Asia, Korean identity continues to change and evolve. Within Korea, globalization has had a large impact.

Were there globalized periods in the past? How have Koreans carved their own unique path into our current global age? To what extent has ‘the Korean Wave’ shaped and been shaped by external views of Korea? How do Korean identities (inclusive of language, gender, music, literature, the performing arts, economics, and even politics) continue to adapt amid changing circumstances, and how have Korean experiences become global experiences?

We seek papers on topics relating to global and regional connections, both historical and in the contemporary world. We seek papers on the interactions with and transmission of Korean culture ranging from ancient to modern times. At a time when Korea continues to push forward as a vigorous player in global culture, economy, and politics, we seek to assess the background, current reality, and future possibilities of Korean engagement with the external world.

Depending on sponsorship, there may be a possibility of funding available to subsidise travel, accommodation, and the Conference fee. Preference for the allocation of subsidies will be given to post-graduate or graduate student proposals.

Deadline for abstracts (up to 1,000 words): 1 August 2014
Notification of acceptance: 1 September 2014

Abstracts should be sent to JB Lewis (jaylewis@orinst.ox.ac.uk) in .docx or .pdf format.

Abstracts should also contain the proposer’s contact details and current status or position
(e.g., independent scholar, student, broadcaster, artist, academic, etc).