Monday, Oct 5, 2015 – Growth and Geography of Markets in North Korea: New Evidence from Satellite Imagery

Thursday, Oct 8, 2015 – Daily Life in North Korea: A Video Presentation

Monday, Sep 28, 2015 – Myanmar in a Regional Context

Wednesday, Feb 4, 2015 – Getting Beyond Politics: Creating Lasting Impact in North Korea

In recent years, North Korea has put greater emphasis on economic growth, resuming economic experimentation and putting in place new measures to try to attract foreign investment. More and more, Pyongyang seems to be placing its bets on developing Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to serve as the main engine of that desired growth. While an SEZ strategy is hardly new for the North, the establishment of new SEZ laws and specialized zone development plans seem to indicate a better understanding of what it takes to attract foreign investors.

In this new USKI Report, Andray Abrahamian, Executive Director of Choson Exchange, examines the political and economic drivers of North Korea’s SEZ development policy and its established zones, and spotlights SEZs with the greatest growth potential. Abrahamian also draws insight from site visits and discussions with North Korean officials, businesspersons and academics to further explore the limitations, challenges and opportunities for North Korea’s new and planned SEZs.

Download the USKI Report, “The ABCs of North Korea’s SEZs,” by Andray Abrahamian.

The US-Korea Institute at SAIS is seeking program and research interns for immediate hire and for the upcoming spring semester. Multiple positions are open, duties will vary. Current areas of research include: North Korea political, economic, and social development, North Korean WMD issues, US-ROK nuclear cooperation, US-ROK cooperation in Southeast Asia, US-ROK cooperation nuclear security, US foreign policy to both Koreas, energy security cooperation in Northeast Asia, ROK renewable energy policies, and more. Candidates with a background in security and Asia issues preferred for immediate open positions.

Interns generally are asked to do a variety of tasks including research assistance, event attendance and reporting, logistical support for events and projects, and other things as necessary. They may work with USKI staff and/or Visiting Scholars on various projects.

Successful candidates should have an interest in Korea and/or East Asia policy and be at least a sophomore in college or higher; graduate students and post-grads are encouraged to apply. Foreign language skills are a plus, but not necessary. Strong writing and editing skillls are preferred. Must be able to multitask, prioritize, meet deadlines, and work well both independently and in small groups.

USKI internships are unpaid and interns are expected to work at least 4 days a week.

To apply, please email cover letter, resume and short writing sample to Jenny Town, Assistant Director at jtown2@jhu.edu. Only those chosen for interview will be contacted. No phone calls please.

Wednesday, Nov 19, 2014 – The ABCs of North Korean SEZs