Economics Project Abstract
LIFE IN AN UNIFIED KOREA
Presenter:
Sang T. Oh, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL, 60506; uni012@imsa.edu
Mentor:
Dr. Ho-Youn Kwon, North Park University, Center for Korean Studies , 3225 West FosterAvenue, Chicago, IL; hykwon@Northpark.edu
Abstract:
In northeastern Asia, there lies a country that has been divided for more than 50 years; it is known as North and South Korea. Ever since the Korean War (1950-1953), the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) has been placed between North and South Korea, dividing one nation into two. During this project, I have become acquainted with the relationship between both countries and their attempts to unify. The research began with assisting in developing the "North Korean Study Program" syllabus in North Park University, which was mainly structured for in-class study. Within the preparation of syllabus, I focused on the "re-construction of a united community in Korea." My objective is to make an educated hypothesis about the outcomes of a united Korea. The unification of East and West Germany reflects a parallel situation to Korea. I began with studying Germany's post unification. Another important idea was the examination of the refugees from the North, who showed psychosocial and cultural differences. Some main research areas include government structures, military power, international relationship, economics, and social life. After a careful analysis of the information, I attempted to create a hypothetical situation of a united Korea.