South Korean businesses are hunting for North Korea experts. Why are they so hard to find?
Last month, a Seoul-based bank found itself in the center of public criticism. In a job advertisement for a “North Korean expert,” the bank said candidates should have either a Ph. D. in a relevant field or have earned more than $55,000 per year at a previous job.
The bank explained that since the position it was looking to fill required professional knowledge and experience in North Korea, it was necessary for candidates to have a higher degree in the field. The bank added that it believed those who have made more than $55,000 have the equivalent qualification.
Despite the bank’s explanation, it did not stop public criticism that the amount of money one earns has no connection with his or her ability or qualification. It is unclear whether the bank has been able to fill the vacancy.
This case is just one of a common trend that has been seen in South Korea recently. More and more companies are looking to hire so-called North Korean experts amid expectations of an improved inter-Korean relationship as they hope to benefit from reduced tensions. The issue seems to be, however, that companies do not know whom to hire and based on what qualifications.
This is related to the lack of institutions in South Korea for people develop their knowledge in North Korean studies.
Some might wonder why South Koreans need to study North Korea. After all, they both speak the Korean language and both nations were formerly united as one entity.
Nam Sung-wook, a professor of North Korean studies at Korea University, has the answer. “Although they are the same people, they have been divided for 70 years, and therefore their systems, ideologies, and cultures are all different,” Nam noted .
Though there are differences based based on curriculum, North Korean studies is usually categorized to include North Korean language, history, economy, politics, international relations, and inter-Korean relations as well as cooperation.
