Int’l History of Divided Korea

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

ASST 558 International History of Divided Korea Prof. Kathryn Weathersby This course examines the difficult issue of the division of Korea into two hostile, ideologically polarized states. It explores how the division came about, how relations between the Republic of Korea and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea have evolved, and why this situation remains so difficult to resolve. The course has three objectives: 1) for students to gain foundational knowledge of the persons, ideas, and events that have created and prolonged the division; 2) for students to become acquainted with the most important literature on the subject; 3) for students to gain deeper knowledge of one particular issue and improve their research and analysis skills by producing a 20-page research paper on their selected topic. Since the division of Korea has to an unusual degree been shaped by forces outside the peninsula, the course will focus particular attention on the roles of international actors and events. Classes will include both lectures and discussion. Before each class students will submit a 2-page memo with a succinct summary and analysis of that week’s reading. Grades will be based on the memos, research paper, and participation in class discussion.