At first, the course ‘Theories of International Relations’ might sound like a repeat of a course some students may have already taken during their bachelor's degree. However, discussing International Relations at the KDI School of Public Policy and Management is quite distinctive. Not only because it's a specific course for a master's degree, but it also provides broader topics and perspectives on IR.

Interestingly, because KDI School focuses on public policy and management, the IR material takes a policy approach introducing various international organizations and the relationship between theory and policy in IR. This course offers a comprehensive introduction to the study of IR, encompassing a survey of fundamental theoretical approaches in the academic discipline. It's structured in a seminar format with active student participation, covering global issues like conflicts, international political economy, democratic peace, foreign direct investment, investment protection, and international trade, among others. The IR course took place throughout the fall semester of 2023.

The course was led by Professor Seungjun Kim, an expert in political science and international relations. His outstanding experience in international political economy is evident in his teaching. In class, he also drew on recent journal articles related to the topic of FDI, including his recent publication ‘Protecting Home: How Firms' Investment Plans Affect the Formation of Bilateral Investment Treaties’. He aims to encourage students to explore their thoughts and opinions on investment protection. Additionally, students can access recommended readings, including books, articles, and news on each discussion topic, readily available at the KDI School Library.

As a participant in this class, Su Myat Thu (MPM 2023), from Myanmar, expressed, "I aimed to expand my knowledge in International Relations, leading me to enroll in Professor Kim's course. The class proved exceptional, with Professor Kim's effective explanations and engaging group discussions. I found every topic intriguing, as reflected in the syllabus. I was so glad that I joined this course as I learned a lot from Professor Kim's dynamic teaching style that encourages discussion." Su also anticipates that the next semester's IR course will be equally enriching.

Agreeing with similar statements, Ruli Aprilia (MPM 2023), a student who also joined this class, mentioned, "This IR course isn't my first encounter with IR lectures. However, the expansion of materials covering multinational political corporations, international organizations, and exploring current world conditions such as the US-China relations and thoughts on the Chip War, greatly supported and enhanced my knowledge in IR, especially concerning the ASEAN perspective."

Ruli also explained that Professor Kim is very open to discussions related to the topics and has a keen interest in sharing knowledge, allowing students to express their opinions and share readings: "I once discussed American Exceptionalism with Prof Kim via email outside of class, and Prof Kim provided insights into the concept and sent me journal readings. This helped me enhance my knowledge of that topic, especially in the IR area."

As a participant from Korea, Ji Hyun (MPP 2023), majoring in public policy, expressed interest in learning about IR, especially in international issues like climate change and international trade. Ji Hyun's interest is also fueled by their upcoming studies in the UK. She previously had limited knowledge of IR: "I was very lucky because KDI School provided this course before I came to the UK. It was fortunate for me to take the course before studying IR in the UK because I did not have any background in this area. That's why I liked the beginning part, discussing perspectives on viewing IR. Also, I could pre-study and understand easily because the Professor is nice and active in discussions with students."

Ji Hyun also hopes that in the next semester, KDI School can focus more on teaching International Relations from the perspective of global economics and contemporary IR issues. "I hope to delve deeper into IR issues and expect KDI School to provide in-depth learning on global political and economic matters like international management conflict, war, state financial matters, etc."

Moreover, the course has proven beneficial for those anticipating further studies related to IR, providing them with essential groundwork and insights before diving into advanced or specialized studies. Students, both with and without prior knowledge in the field, have found the course instrumental in broadening their perspectives and understanding global issues, ranging from geopolitics to economic and policy matters.

In essence, the "Theories of International Relations" course at KDI School stands as a testament to the institution's commitment to providing a unique and comprehensive educational experience in IR, offering a platform for students to engage deeply with the complexities of global affairs and policy-making.