Advanced Topics in Social and Cultural Analysis (303-0-1)

Topic

Constructing North Korea in the Western Imaginary

Instructors

Helen Cho

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 2-440: Tues, Thurs 3:30PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

APPLICATION TO THIS COURSE HAS CLOSED.

How do we know what we think we know about North Korea? Join an interdisciplinary exploration of
one of the world's most discussed yet least accessible countries through an immersive field experience in Seoul, South Korea. Building on work in Asian American Studies and media studies, students will investigate how narratives about North Korea are created, circulated, and contested across media, museums, tourism, and public discourse. The trip includes a visit to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), tours of The Database Center for North Korean Human Rights (NKDB) and the War Memorial of Korea, a walking tour of Itaewon and the site of the former Yongsan Garrison, and conversations with journalists from major international news organizations. Students will also engage with academic scholars and peers to examine South Korean perspectives on North Korea and compare them with dominant Western narratives. Designed for students interested in media, politics, culture, history, and international affairs, this experience challenges participants to think critically about knowledge production, representation, and the power of storytelling in shaping global understanding.

Class Materials (Required)

All course materials will be available on Canvas

Class Notes

By application only. Attendance at the first class is mandatory.

Class Attributes

Social and Behavioral Science Foundational Discipl
U.S. Perspectives on Power, Justice, and Equity
SoC Individual and Social Behavior Distro