The Division of International Support for Korean Studies at the Center for International Affairs of the Academy of Korean Studies held the 176th Colloquium on Korean Studies Abroad on Tuesday, August 1, 2023 at the Munhyeonggwan Grand Conference Room. The colloquium was held to present the research results of the two 2023 AKS visiting fellowship recipients, Prof. Seong Si-rin of Queen's University of Belfast and Prof. Choi Hye-eun of Shanghai New York University.

Professor Seong presented her research on "Changing Fatherhood?: Gender Norms, Culture and Policies in South Korea," which was based on in-depth interviews with Korean dual-income couples for about three months. The study particularly analyzed social perceptions of fatherhood and its relationship with culture and policies, an issue that has not been covered in previous studies, from a gender perspective. The professor also talked about the impact of work-family policies on gender roles and fathers' involvement in childcare.

Professor Choi presented her research "Inventing Modern Sound Culture in Colonial Korea (1910-1945)." The study looked into how sound reproduction technologies and industries were modernized in Joseon, which went through big changes such as colonization and adoption of capitalism in the early 20th century. Based on the contents of a book she had been writing on, the professor looked into how the famous song "Tears of Mokpo" was invoked and used in the first half of the 20th century during her three-month stay in Korea.

The colloquiums drew many researchers and graduate students, who shared their opinions. The Division of International Support for Korean Studies will continue to organize events to promote communication among local and foreign researchers.