War and Peace on the Korean Peninsula

Course Description

 

This course addresses the geopolitical dynamics surrounding the Korean peninsula from the perspective of international relations. The aim of the course is that the students while focusing on the Korean peninsula develop a basic understanding of the various ongoing conflicts in East Asia (i.e. “New Cold War”) between the USA, China, Japan, Russia and North and South Korea. In the beginning of the seminar we will make ourselves acquainted with conceptual approaches to international relations in East Asia. This is followed by a set of sessions in which we examine historical developments around the Korean peninsula starting from the 19th century working our way up to the division of the Korean peninsula (1945-48) and the Korean War (1950-53). Against this backdrop we spend the remainder of the semester with studying contemporary developments regarding the international relations and conflicts between the two Koreas, the USA, Japan, China and Russia. Meanwhile, a central focus is put on issues related to the difficulties and possibilities of peace on the Korean peninsula and the East Asian region.

 

Course Structure

 

This semester is composed of 14 weeks (20. Oct. 2022 – 02. Feb. 2023/ Weihnachtsfereien: 23.12.2021- 06.01.2022). Students are expected to read the required reading materials on the schedule at home, to send your questions, if you have, regarding contents that were not easily to understand. In case of Aufbaumodule students, you are also expected to summarize the required article at least once during the semester. If the COVID situation will be getting worse, then it could be replace online lecture.

 

Grading

 

1. Aufbaumodule Students

1) Review of the article

2) Oral test (5 munites presentation +10 munites Q &A) as a group (2-4 persons): last Friday of the lecture (3. Feb. 2023)

    a.     First half of the examination: Presentation of a selected topic from the lecture and Q&A

    b. Second half of the examination: Q&A about the lecture on International Relations (Vorlesungs)

 

2. Wahlpflicht module Students

  Review essay of the selected topic among the lectures: 5-6 pages (by 3. Feb. 2023)

Attendance & Participation