- 제목
- [Newsletter] Bridging Cyberspace and International Policy: Professor So Jeong Kim’s Mission to Prepare GSIS Students
- 작성일
- 2025.02.03
- 작성자
- 국제학대학원
- 게시글 내용
-
by Sophie Koritz
Junior Editor, GSIS Newsletter
In today’s digital world, cybersecurity touches nearly every aspect of our lives, from national security to the devices we use daily. Professor So Jeong Kim, who joined GSIS in 2024, brings over two decades of experience in cybersecurity research and policy as well as a passion for teaching students. Through her courses, she aims to explain the technical aspects of cyberspace while concurrently highlighting cybersecurity’s critical role in shaping policy decisions. In this interview, she shares her journey, teaching philosophy, and vision for preparing students to navigate the challenges of the cyber age.
What was your background before starting at GSIS?
I completed my undergraduate degree in history, a master's degree in international relations, and a doctoral degree in information security policy. This diverse academic background has unintentionally equipped me to conduct interdisciplinary research. Since earning my Ph.D. in 2005, I have worked as a researcher, and this year marks my 23rd year of studying cybersecurity issues.
From 2004, I worked at the National Security Research Institute, a government-funded R&D institution, where I began research and development in cybersecurity policy. Since 2022, I have been working at the Institute for National Security Strategy, a think tank.
Throughout my career, I have actively participated in discussions on international norms for cyberspace through UN meetings, intergovernmental and Track 1.5 meetings, cybersecurity training exercises, and advising for various cybersecurity issues in government agencies including drafting of national cybersecurity strategies.
When did you start at GSIS? What motivated you to begin teaching?
I started teaching at GSIS in the spring semester of 2024. While cybersecurity has traditionally attracted interest from those with technical backgrounds, its importance from a national security perspective has grown significantly. I have been particularly concerned that younger generations, despite their familiarity with IT and cyberspace, often fail to grasp the risks associated with these technologies.
When I was invited to teach in 2024, I was delighted to accept. Over the past year, I have taught two courses and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I hope to enhance students' understanding of cybersecurity issues within the context of social sciences—particularly international relations. By equipping students with expertise in this area, I believe we can foster policy decisions that better account for both the positive and negative impacts of technological advancements.
What do you hope your students will take away from your courses?
Most of my students, who are in their twenties, use emerging technologies in their daily lives. I want them to understand that these technologies influence not only domestic policies but also international relations. Through my courses, I hope students gain an open-minded perspective and the key concepts needed to grasp the strategic and policy implications of technologies used in cyberspace.
How has teaching at GSIS differed from what you had expected?
Teaching at GSIS has provided me with opportunities to engage with students from diverse nationalities, which has helped me overcome unconscious biases and embrace greater diversity—something I deeply appreciate.
I initially expected students to struggle with technical concepts, but they have adapted and understood these topics more easily than I anticipated. This has encouraged me to consider adding more technical explanations to the background parts of my courses.
What unique perspectives about cyber and cybersecurity do you hope to bring to your courses that students might not encounter elsewhere?
My courses emphasize practical approaches rather than purely theoretical or academic research. Globally, cybersecurity studies are more focused on understanding real-world phenomena than on developing theories. This area of study is closely tied to ongoing developments, making it impossible to understand without a solid grasp of current trends.
To help students deepen their understanding, I provide opportunities to engage with real-time seminars and lectures outside the classroom. This allows them to explore the subject from various angles.
In Korea, courses on cybersecurity policy are rare. Only a handful of courses are offered in Korean, and to my knowledge, there are no similar courses taught in English at other institutions. Furthermore, my direct participation in intergovernmental and think tank meetings, as well as cybersecurity training exercises, allows me to share insights on current agendas and discussions. This proximity to real-world developments is a significant strength of my courses.
What courses do you plan on teaching in the spring 2025 semester?
I plan to teach a course titled Cybersecurity Policy, which provides a comprehensive understanding of key issues, agendas, and national strategies related to cybersecurity. This course was first introduced at GSIS in the spring semester of 2024.
As countries adopt various strategies and policies based on their unique threat perceptions, the course will help GSIS students—many of whom come from diverse countries—understand both international relations and their home countries' specific contexts.
Is there anything you would like to say to GSIS students who are interested but intimidated about studying cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is no longer a distant issue; it is a critical area that everyone must engage with. I understand that many GSIS students may feel daunted by the technical aspects of the field. However, just as one can use a smartphone effectively without understanding its technical background, cybersecurity and the application of emerging technologies are essential aspects of modern life that go beyond technical knowledge. I encourage students to take the first step and try to understand this field—it is both necessary and rewarding.