On Thursday, May 22, the Foundation held an international academic conference in the Foundation’s main conference hall in cooperation with the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences. Under the theme "Korea and Vietnam: Neighboring China," the conference aimed to shed light on the historical relationships both countries have maintained with the powerful neighbor, China, and to provide insights necessary for understanding the dynamics of East Asia.

Since 2009, the Foundation has continued academic exchanges with the Institute of History of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences. Last year, the two institutions signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to expand their cooperation, and this conference was organized as part of that achievement.

The conference covered four main topics: ▲Books, ▲Evolving Relationships, ▲Borders, and ▲Power Shifts. Researchers from both countries presented and discussed topics such as diplomatic relations across different historical periods, perceptions of borders, and strategies toward surrounding powers.

In detailed sessions, presenters conducted in-depth analyses of Korea-Vietnam relations with China, referencing historical cases such as relations between the Song Dynasty and the Dinh Dynasty, regulations on foreigners during the Tang and Song periods, diplomatic strategies with the Ming Dynasty, border issues in the 17th–18th centuries, and changes in the diplomatic landscape after the First Sino-Japanese War.

President of NAHF Jihang Park stated, “With the belief that a proper understanding of history is the foundation for peace and cooperation in Northeast Asia, the Foundation has continuously engaged in joint research and academic exchanges with global research institutions. We hope this conference serves as an opportunity for scholarly solidarity to deepen mutual understanding and overcome historical conflicts between our two countries.”