Led by Quinton Dotzert 🇺🇸

How did two nations once connected by war build one of the Indo-Pacific's most enduring partnerships? From the Korean War to today's political, economic, cultural, and security cooperation, the relationship between South Korea and the U.S. has evolved through decades of challenges and change.

In this roundtable, delegates will explore the historical events and turning points that shaped the Korea-U.S. alliance. They will examine how both countries have navigated conflict, disagreement, and uncertainty, and how cooperation has helped strengthen their relationship over time.

By connecting historical lessons to present-day challenges, delegates will consider how the alliance can continue to evolve. What can past generations teach us about overcoming differences, building trust, and strengthening cooperation in an increasingly complex world?

Led by Inkyu Kim 🇰🇷

Can two countries build a strong partnership without always seeing eye to eye? Despite decades of cooperation, South Korea and the U.S. have different cultural traditions, social values, and perspectives that shape how their people understand the world. These differences can create tension, but they can also open the door to new ideas and deeper understanding.

In this roundtable, delegates will explore how differences in culture, religion, identity, and political beliefs have shaped Korea-U.S. relations. Through case studies and discussion, they will examine how conflicting values can lead to misunderstandings while also creating opportunities for dialogue, learning, and innovation.

By considering perspectives from both countries, delegates will explore how mutual respect and cross-cultural understanding can strengthen international partnerships. How can we move beyond simply agreeing with one another to build meaningful cooperation across differences?

Led by Seohyeon Kang 🇰🇷

Artificial intelligence is transforming the global economy, creating new opportunities for innovation while changing how businesses invest, industries compete, and countries approach economic security. For South Korea and the U.S., these changes raise important questions about the future of their economic partnership.

In this roundtable, delegates will explore how emerging technologies are reshaping investment and economic growth across the Pacific. They will examine the challenges of technological competition and consider how joint investments, technological partnerships, and coordinated economic policies can strengthen both countries' economies and long-term security.

Drawing on perspectives from finance, technology, and public policy, delegates will consider how the next generation can help shape a more resilient Korea-U.S. economic partnership. How can both countries balance competition and cooperation while investing in a shared technological future?

Led by Grace Shields 🇺🇸

What happens when learning takes us beyond the classroom and across borders? As interest in cultural and educational exchange grows between South Korea and the U.S., programs such as Korea WEST and EPIK are creating opportunities for students and young professionals to study, teach, and work abroad.

In this roundtable, delegates will explore how educational exchanges foster cross-cultural understanding and strengthen Korea-U.S. relations. They will examine how differences in educational systems, social norms, and cultural expectations shape exchange experiences, creating both challenges and opportunities for personal growth and meaningful connections.

Drawing on perspectives from both countries, delegates will consider how educational exchange programs can evolve to create more meaningful and lasting partnerships. How can we turn individual experiences abroad into stronger connections between communities and nations?

Led by Junghyun Kim 🇰🇷

What happens when close economic partners find themselves competing? South Korea and the U.S. have built a strong economic relationship through decades of trade, investment, and technological cooperation. Yet shifting global priorities, supply chain disruptions, and changing trade policies are creating new challenges for both countries.

In this roundtable, delegates will explore how Korea-U.S. economic relations have evolved and how trade disputes, industrial policies, and competition in key industries shape the partnership today. Through historical examples and contemporary challenges, they will examine how economic tensions can drive change, encourage innovation, and create opportunities for cooperation.

Drawing on real-world trade policies and economic trends, delegates will consider how both countries can balance their national interests with shared economic goals. How can South Korea and the U.S. navigate economic competition while building a stronger, more resilient partnership?