One of the School of Politics and International Relations at the ANU’s newest members, Jeffrey Choi, is continuing the history of Australian-Korean friendship.

Last year, as part of the commemorations of the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Kapyong in the Korean War, the Australian Government announced the establishment of ten one-off Kapyong Commemorative Scholarships to enable young Koreans to study in Australia.  The scholarships also come on the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the countries.

Jeffrey was awarded a Kapyong Commemorative Scholarship to study Australian foreign aid policies, with a view to building a Korean model of foreign aid governance.  He views the Kapyong scholarships as a sign of Australia’s increasing closeness to Korea and the rest of Asia.

“The importance of the Korea-Australia relationship has ever increased as the two nations are getting closer in terms of economy, security, and other areas, but there has been a very serious lack in numbers of young professional leaders who understand the importance of our alliance”, says Jeffrey.

“This is not only a great chance to finish my PhD study but also a great chance to become a leader who understands the importance of good relations between the two countries.”

The scholarship’s history is likewise important to Jeffrey:  “since sacrifice of young Australians [in the Korean War] led me to study in Australia, I take this opportunity very seriously...  I also appreciate the people of Australia for giving me such a wonderful opportunity to experience Australia”.

Three of the Kapyong scholarship recipients have chosen to commence PhD studies at the ANU in 2012.  Jeffrey commenced in the School of Politics and International Relations in February 2012.