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Featured and recent publications
Co-authored by: Soomin Park
Publication month: February 2026
Since the opening of the port in 1883, this book traces the formation of Incheon as a modern city, focusing on the Gyeongin Railway inaugurated in 1899. It views the railway not merely as a mode of transport but as a pivotal axis that organized urban structures, expansion, and the rhythms of daily life. Notably, the book departs from the conventional perspective that treats Incheon as a mere 'gateway' or 'outer port' to Seoul. Instead, it positions Incheon as an active 'nodal point' connecting inland and maritime realms, interpreting the Gyeongin Railway as a subjective main line that defined the city’s identity. Through meticulous fieldwork from Incheon Station to Bupyeong, the authors capture the layered temporalities and lives—from the declining commercial districts of Dong-Incheon to the multicultural landscapes of Juan—redefining the railway as a repository of memories and emotions. Ultimately, it diagnoses contemporary urban restructuring and proposes a new urban perception centered on the meaning of 'place' rather than speed-oriented development.
Authors: Suha Lim, Zhanru Luo, Jongho Lee, and Suh-hee Choi
Publication month: Februaray 2026
Abstract: This study examines the social and cultural implications of visiting friends and relatives (VFR), using the case of visitors to Korea. Through individual interviews with 56 hosts and guests, the study captures how participants perceive their visits to Korea and the hosting practices that take place there. The findings from interviews indicate that VFR generates impacts not only through individual actions such as the dissemination of information about Korea, but also through interpersonal relationships that foster social solidarity and intercultural contact, with the potential for broader social and cultural ripple effects at a more macro level. This study is significant in that it demonstrates how the social and cultural impacts of VFR extend multidimensionally beyond individual experiences, while also highlighting the role of VFR as an informal yet continuous mechanism for expanding interest in Korea. The findings suggest the need for institutional support to facilitate effective communication and cultural understanding among VFR participants in future policy development. In addition, further discussion is required regarding ways to mitigate negative experiences arising from cultural differences and to sustain positive interactions between hosts and guests.
Authors: Suha Lim, Suh-hee Choi
Publication date: April 2025
Abstract: This study reveals the mechanisms inherent in the formation and change of relationships among residents in a rural area. A qualitative study was conducted based on constructivist grounded theory by using interview data and field notes that had been collected and synthesized during a month-long field study in Yeonpung-myeon (Goesan-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do). The findings show that there was a presence of amicable, indifferent, and conflictual relationships among the residents. Amicable relationships were enhanced through relationship-building by taking roles for the community and through cultural activities and various gatherings, particularly held indoors. Indifferent relationships were triggered by changes in the profile of residents due to the influx of new settlers and the decline of native residents, along with the widespread individualism caused by the disappearance of traditional culture and the proliferation of electronic devices, leading to decreased interaction. Conflictual relationships were characterized by accumulated conflicts stemming from cultural differences among the community members from different regions, generational gaps, financial conflicts, and differences in opinions among community members regarding social integration. This study is significant as it considered the characteristics of rural areas and overcame dichotomous thinking to uncover the mechanisms behind the formation and composition of various relationships among residents.