2011 Workshop

Korea Security Statement

What happened?

As everyone is aware, tension between South Korea and North Korea has been running particularly high after the March 26 sinking of the South Korean warship Cheonan. This led to Yeonpyeong island incident, where North Korean troops fired artillery at the island killing two soldiers and two civilians. Many South Koreans believe that this provocative act by North Korea is closely linked to North Korea's power transferring from Kim Jong-Il to his son, Kim Jong-Eun. The North Korean goal may a propaganda effort to portray their future young leader as a hero. These acts were met with universal, international condemnation.

No travel warning

Regardless of the increase in tension among international communities around the Korean peninsula, the South Korean government is confident that war cannot easily break out and foreign embassies in Korea are not providing any special travel advice other than to 'exercise normal security precautions.' The US State Department has no active warning and their November 23rd statement is non-alarmist.

Business as usual!

The Korean benchmark stock index, KOSPI, is soaring up and the market saw its highest finish since its inception on March 3, 1956, proving that North Korea’s sabre rattling attack has had no impact on the Korean economy.

We, South Korean citizens and MIT GSW Seoul hosting team have every confidence in a peaceful and amazing global workshop! Don't miss your chance to meet great people in the wonderful city of Seoul!!

Best Regards,

MIT GSW Seoul Team