Our MA in North Korean Studies will equip you with a detailed knowledge of the society, politics and economy of one of the least understood countries on the planet.
Explore the past, present and future of North Korea, including its relations with South Korea and its interactions with the rest of the world.
Taking on the role of an inquisitive social scientist, you will adopt several academic approaches towards understanding the complexities of North Korea, drawing on anthropology, development studies, peace studies, international relations and sociology.
You will develop advanced skills in critical analysis as you investigate the ways in which North Korea has the potential to achieve sustainable development and become a resilient society against the backdrop of dysfunctional state and development assistance. As you progress you will deepen your understanding of issues including resilience and climate change across the Korean peninsula while also learning about the socio-political situations in other divided nations.
Why study with us
- Our MA North Korean Studies course is the only degree programme with a sole focus on North Korea available outside of the Korean peninsula.
- Develop advanced academic and employability skills, including participating in student-led roundtable discussions and publishing policy briefs.
- Modules will introduce you to non-traditional security issues and equip you with skills in research and analysis which will be invaluable in a wide range of careers.
What you'll do
- You will gain a comparative advantage in your future career through the unique knowledge gained of North Korea and surrounding issues in international dynamics.
- You will enhance your expertise, deepen your knowledge of policy and practice in North Korea, and gain a better understanding of the Korean Peninsula.
- There will be opportunities for you to engage in international conferences, roundtable discussions, and policy talks.
Module overview
Compulsory modules
• KO4900: North Korean Studies Dissertation
Optional modules
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A14101: China-Japan-Korea Trilateral Relations
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A14102: Globalisation and Economic Development in the Asia Pacific
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A14103: Historical Transformation in the Asia Pacific
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A14104: Political Changes and Social Movements in the Asia Pacific
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A14106: East Asian Philosophy and Thought
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Al4107: Critical East Asian Cinema Studies
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A14108: Culture and Creative Industries in East Asia
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A14109: The Anthropology of The Asia Pacific
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KO4010: Explaining inter-Korean Relations
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KO4013: Development in Fragile States and Accountable Institution
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KO4014: Divided Nations: Disputes, Violence and Conflict
• KO4015: History, Politics and International Relations of North Korea
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KO4016: Economy and Society in North Korea
• KO4017: Sustainable Development and Resilient Society in Korea Peninsula
Course delivery
This course is taught face-to-face at one of our UK campuses.
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information. However, our programmes are subject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may cause alteration to, or the cancellation of, courses. Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of accrediting bodies or revisions to subject benchmarks statements. As well as to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.
Future careers
On completion of the MA North Korean Studies, you will be equipped to work in a number of employment sectors dealing with international affairs.
The MA is designed so that on completion, you will have studied relevant subjects and made the necessary preparation for doctoral research.

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