This Week: *knock knock*! You're here!

Announcements

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The Vanguard Think Tank, an international think tank in international relations, economics and cultural exchange associated with Johns Hopkins University, is hiring research fellows! Apply with a cover letter here! See more details below under "internship opportunities". 

The Japan Foundation has launched an online digital library you can access for free! It has over 1,800 titles in ​broad genres such as manga, literature, Japanese language, art, history, culture, society, cooking & food, etc.. Sign up here to get your library card!

Upcoming Harvard Events

Sunday, September 4


(No events scheduled on this day)

Thursday, September 8


Thursday, 08:20 am - 13:00 pm

Youth Political Mobilization & Socialization in Contemporary China: The Centenary of the Communist Youth League

(Virtual Event, Registration Required)

Conference (Day 1)

Harvard Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation

A variety of talks of interest to China historians and scholars. 

Check the schedule for a list of titles.


Monday, September 5


(No events scheduled on this day)

Friday, September 9


Friday, 08:30 am - 13:15 pm

Youth Political Mobilization & Socialization in Contemporary China: The Centenary of the Communist Youth League

(Virtual Event, Registration Required)

Conference (Day 2)

Harvard Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation

A variety of talks of interest to China historians and scholars. 

Check the schedule for a list of titles.


Friday, 14:30-16:00 pm

Welcome Back Party

Asian-American and Pacific Islander Studies Working Group 

Barker Center Lawn, 12 Quincy Street

This event is open to all undergraduate and graduate students, professors, researchers, and staff across Harvard schools and departments.

Food will be served. RSVP Here!

Tuesday, September 6


Tuesday, 11:00 am

North Korea-China Relations After The Singapore Summit

Roundtable and Podcast Recording 

The Korea Society

Dr. Seong-Hyon Lee, senior fellow at the Goerge H. W. Bush Foundation and a visiting scholar at Harvard University's Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies explores the evolving relationship between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, with a special focus on the time period between the U.S.-DPRK Summits in Singapore (June 2018) and Hanoi (February 2019).

Saturday, September 10


Saturday, 12:00 - 13:00 pm

Cooking From Here: Food in the Chinese Diaspora

(Online Event) 

Harvard University Asia Center

A hybrid conversation and cooking demonstration with Sean Liu, Zoey Gong, and Veronica Peterson. Set in the historically Mexican and Chinese Sunset Park neighborhood in Brooklyn, NY, the speakers will cook recipes inspired by the neighborhood’s history and cultures. As they cook together, they will discuss how experiences of immigration have shaped Chinese diasporic cooking practices and how Chinese cooking has influenced American foodways.

Wednesday, September 7


(No events scheduled on this day)

Sunday, September 11


(No events scheduled on this day)

Poetic Interlude      

Finally after half a century, a clearly observable law has been found:

For mankind, all matters proceed

Along geometric lines


(If you put one grain of rice on the first intersection of a game board, two grains of rice on the second, four grains of rice on the third, and continue along these lines, what vast quantities will you have by the time the board is covered? When the ancient king was told the answer, how surprised he was … )


By the time I realized what was happening, I was clinging to the earth

So I would not be shaken off as it spun with ever greater speed...


Tada Chimako

Trans. Jeffrey Angles

"After Half a Century"


Read the Translation

半世紀もかかってようやく見えてきた明晰な法則がある


つまり人生においては何事も


等比級数的に進行するということ



(碁盤の一つの目に一粒の米 二つ目に二粒 三つ目に四粒 順次倍の米粒を置いてゆけば 全部でどれほど莫大な量になるか 知らされたときのあの王様の愕(おどろ)き……)


気がつくとわたしは振り落されまいとして


回転を速める地球にしっかりしがみついていた…



多田智満子

「半世紀が過ぎて」



Read the Rest

Other Upcoming Events

Sunday, September 4


Sunday, 13:30 pm

Vanguard Think Tank Pre-Application Deadline (applications still available but require cover letter)

Thursday, September 8


Thursday, 18:30 pm

Hanbok: The Celebration

Korea Society

Webinar recording available September 14. Registration required.


In this comprehensive series of lectures, Dr. Minjee Kim, the preeminent scholar of Korean textile and fashion in the U.S., illustrates and elucidates hanbok in sartorial, socio-cultural, and historical contexts.


In the fourth presentation of the series, Dr. Kim will demonstrate in person how to dress the bride and the groom in their splendid wedding attires. The children's one-year birthday celebration ensembles will also be displayed and their symbolism will be discussed. 

Monday, September 5


(No events scheduled on this day)


Friday, September 9


Friday, 19:00 pm

Kamogawa: The River at the Heart of Kyoto

(Online Event)

Japan Society of Boston

The Kamogawa is a river so small that it has no harbor and no boats can run on it. Nevertheless, for locals of Kyoto, it is a beloved gathering place where one may rest, recharge, and enjoy city life with others. Join the Kyoto Guide Club (KGC) for a virtual introduction to this one-of-a-kind communal locale in Japan’s most traditional city. Kyoto locals and KGC volunteers will explore why the Kamogawa is such a central spot for rest and recreation in Kyoto, much more so than the Seine in Paris or Thames in London.

Tuesday, September 6


Tuesday, 11:00 am

North Korea-China Relations After The Singapore Summit

Roundtable and Podcast Recording 

The Korea Society

Dr. Seong-Hyon Lee, senior fellow at the Goerge H. W. Bush Foundation and a visiting scholar at Harvard University's Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies, explores the evolving relationship between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, with a special focus on the time period between the U.S.-DPRK Summits in Singapore (June 2018) and Hanoi (February 2019).


Tuesday, 19:00pm

Film Screening: Ran

Coolidge Corner Theater, Brookline MA

Part of Samurai Summer series

Followed by A Fistful of Dollarson Wednesday, September 7 for comparison. 


Saturday, September 10


(No events scheduled on this day)

Wednesday, September 7


(No events scheduled on this day)

Sunday, September 11


(No events scheduled on this day)

Ongoing Events To Check Out: 


August 16-September 7: Samurai Summer Series, Coolidge Corner Theatre (Brookline, MA)

Educational and Internship Opportunities

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If you’re interested in conducting research into international relations, economics, or cultural exchange, and being able to follow your passions as you do so, then Vanguard Think Tank is the place for you! Join a dynamic team of passionate scholars from institutions worldwide to hone your research and writing skills and get your work published.

Research fellows at Vanguard Think Tank have the opportunity to conduct research along their interests, joining one of six regional groups and one of twelve thematic research groups. There, they conduct individual and collaborative research with their peers and have the opportunity to see their work published. Fellows also have the opportunity to join management, gaining insight into what it’s like to run an international organization and learning from their peers. VTT is also proud to provide a vast, diverse alumni network and professional development events where fellows can expand on their research interests, expand their networks, and hone their writing, editing, and critical thinking skills. To apply, please fill out the application form and attach a resume/CV and writing sample, and if

applying after September 4th, a two-paragraph cover letter. Applications can be found here!

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Korea Society 2022 Fall Session Registration Open Aug 09-Sept 16

Eight levels of online Korean Language classes geared towards adults. Website Link

Japanese Group Lessons Fall Session

Registration currently open. Website Link

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East Asia in Research News       

JSTOR: Keeping Time with Incense Clocks


Nature Journal: A feminist translation approach in twentieth-century China: Bing Xin’s 《园丁集》translation of The Gardener by Tagore


International Journal of Management and Humanities: 'Ringi System' The Decision Making Process in Japanese Management Systems: An Overview

Grant and Scholarship Opportunities

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The Luce Scholars Program

www.hluce.org/programs/luce-scholars/

A thirteen-month internship program in Asia

Deadline: October 15, 2022

Please contact the program directly to apply

Publication Opportunities

The Michigan Journal of Asian Studies
Deadline: Rolling
The Michigan Journal of Asian Studies is an undergraduate academic journal at the University of Michigan centered around political, economic, social, and cultural affairs in Asia. Our journal seeks to highlight original research papers and creative works related to Asia produced by undergraduate students.
Click here to learn more about the journal and submit your work or email mjas.contact@umich.edu for questions!
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The Wittenberg University East Asian Studies Journal
Deadline: Rolling
The Wittenberg University East Asian Studies Journal is an undergraduate academic journal at Wittenberg University which is completely written, edited, and published by undergraduate students. The student staff selects academic articles and creative pieces having to do with East Asia, regardless of whether they are written from a Chinese, Japanese, Korean, or integrative perspective. No limitations are placed on the academic area from which works are written, as writings from all disciplines are welcome.
Click here to learn more about the journal and submit your work or email nmoskowitz@wittenberg.edu for questions!
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The Carleton College Undergraduate Journal of Humanistic Studies
Deadline: Rolling
The Carleton UJHS is looking for high-quality papers that present serious research with fresh points of view in the humanities and social sciences, with a mission to bring to light new narratives, neglected points of view, and highlight work that challenges dominant perspectives. Creative and opinion pieces not accepted. 
View their website here or contact ujhs@carleton.edu with questions!
Browse more opportunities for fellowships, research, travel and more at the Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships!

Below is a static list of academic and social resources.


Events by Institution

Reischauer Institute of Japanese Studies Event Calendar

Harvard Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study Events and Exhibitions

Asia Center Virtual Programs
Experience Harvard Asia Center programming through current and archived digital exhibitions, as well as podcast talk series and author conversations! Click to view virtual programs at the Asia Center.

Left: Still from 3D virtual exhibition "Harvard Asia Center Poster Art 2010-2020"

Student Groups

*Please be aware that student groups may have become inactive during our time off campus. If you are aware of any updates to a group on this list, please let us know by e-mailing leorosenstein@fas.harvard.edu.

Asian American Business Association

The Asian American Business Association (AABA) provides a forum for the promotion, understanding, and cross-cultural exchange of East Asian and Asian American business, social, academic, cultural, political, and community-related initiatives. Visit their website here.


Asian American Dance Troupe

For over twenty years, the Asian American Dance Troupe (AADT) has sought to spread an appreciation and awareness of Asian culture through the medium of dance. Our repertoire includes a diverse range of dance forms including traditional, ethnic minority, fusion, martial arts, modern, and hip hop. Membership open to all students in good standing currently enrolled in Harvard College. Visit their website here.


Asian American Studies Working Group is a space of interdisciplinary collaboration between faculty, graduate students, and undergraduates pursuing scholarships in Asian American and Pacific Islander (API) histories, experiences, and intellectual traditions. Its goals are to build scholarly community, explore major debates and developments in API Studies, and enrich the research pursued by its members across Harvard University. To contact the organizers, see when the group meets next, or to learn more, visit their webpage.


China Forum

Founded in 1998, Harvard College China Forum is currently the largest China-focused conference in the New England area and annually attracts audiences from all over North America. Every spring the forum invites influential business leaders, policy shapers, and leading scholars to Harvard to address current events in a wide range of topics relevant to the development of China today. Operating under the Harvard China Review framework, HCCF, together with the Harvard China Review, runs a series of sub-programs, including monthly seminars and an annual cultural exchange program in the summer. Visit their website here.


Gaongil (Harvard College Modern Korean Studies Society) 

A tight-knit organization that meets to discuss various economic, social, political, cultural issues related to modern Korea. As the Korean word "Gaongil" means "Middle-Path," the organization is committed to remaining nonpartisan while encouraging free, unhindered discussion. Anyone interested in joining Gaongil is welcome! No prior experience with Korean language or culture is needed; meetings are in English.

Fill out the interest form here to be included in their e-mail list.


Harvard Asian American Womxn's Association

The Asian American Womxn's Association recognizes the need for a unified, open community at Harvard concerned with the issues facing people of Asian descent in Western society. The purpose of the Asian American Womxn's Association is to address these needs by creating a collective voice and promoting the prominence and concerns of the Asian-American population, both within the community and without. Visit their Facebook page here.


Harvard Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA)

Harvard CSSA is dedicated to the goal of promoting social, intellectual, and cultural activities of Chinese students and scholars at Harvard and for other interested members in the Harvard community. It facilitates communication among its members and acts as a liaison between with other organizations on campus. The group facilitates the exchange of information between China and the US. Its activities include sponsoring/co-sponsoring social, intellectual, & cultural events and seminars. Contact harvardcssa@gmail.com or visit their site.


Harvard Taiwanese Culture Society

TCS is a student-run organization at Harvard College dedicated to promoting the culture and heritage of Taiwan and Taiwanese-Americans. From cultural events like making muaji to social events like karaoke to special events like their annual Winterfest: Taste of Taiwan, their goal is to enhance awareness of Taiwanese culture and provide a place for those interested in learning about Taiwan to meet. Visit their website here; or Facebook.


Harvard Task Force for Asian American Progressive Advocacy and Studies (TAPAS)

The Task Force for Asian American Progressive Advocacy and Studies (TAPAS) is an advocacy organization of Harvard undergraduates aiming to support Asian American communities and stand in solidarity with progressive struggles. Visit their Facebook page for more info.


Harvard Vietnamese Association

The Harvard Vietnamese Association is dedicated to fostering an awareness of Vietnamese culture on campus and within the Greater Boston area, and promoting the interests of the Vietnamese student body at Harvard. Visit their website here, or like their Facebook page for regular updates--including a biweekly Vietnamese language table for native speakers and learners to enjoy each other's company and conversation!


Korea Caucus

The mission of Korea Caucus, a student-run organization at Harvard Kennedy School, is to actively raise the awareness of Korea within the KSG community by sharing the country's cultural heritage through social events, serving as a bridge and resource to non-Korean students who are interested in learning more about the country. They also aim to provide a forum to address key issues facing Korea and their implications for the rest of the world through activities and events. Visit their Facebook page.


Korean Association

The Korean Association leads the undergraduate Korean-American community's efforts to teach & learn about Korean culture and political issues. KA also provides a social outlet for Korean-American students to meet others with shared heritage & interests. KA supports cultural groups including YISEI the magazine, the fan dance troupe Chunsa, and the Korean drumming group (poongmul pae) Han Ma Eum. Visit their site or Facebook.


Organization of Asian American Sisters in Service

OAASIS consists of members committed to each other in three aspects: commitment in sisterhood, commitment in service, and commitment in exploring the diverse experiences of Asian and Asian American women. Visit their Facebook page at http://facebook.com/harvardoaasis. Direct any questions to oaasis.harvard@gmail.com. OAASIS welcomes students of all gender and ethnic identities.


The Wave Literary & Arts Magazine

The Wave is a literary and arts magazine that seeks to create a platform for artists and readers to express and reflect on Asian anglophone experiences. We publish art, poetry, fiction, and essays by Asians anglophone of all backgrounds. Our mission is to expand prevailing notions of what it means to be an Asian anglophone and to showcase the vast range of talent and energy in our Harvard community and beyond. Visit our website to learn more.

Links & Resources

Browse opportunities for fellowships, research, travel and more at the Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships!

The Academic Resource Center (ARC) is here to assist undergraduate and graduate students with navigating their studies and reaching their goals for this semester and beyond. Through the ARC, you have access to academic coaching, peer tutoring, workshops, and accountability sessions to help you succeed.

This fall students can choose whether they want to engage with the ARC in person or virtually, and can access all services through the ARC Scheduler.
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Browse free online courses in a variety of subjects. Harvard University courses on EdX can be audited free, or students can choose to receive a verified certificate for a small fee. Multiple EAS-related courses are offered via HarvardX, including Japanese Books: From Manuscript to PrintChinaX Book Club: Five Authors, Five Books, Five Views of China; and Contemporary China: The People's Republic, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.

The Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at Harvard Kennedy School hosts programs dedicated to the interdisciplinary research of Vietnam and China.


Harvard Office of BGLTQ Student Life serves as a central resource for bisexual, gay, lesbian, transgender, queer, and questioning (BGLTQ) students at Harvard College. They foster the inclusion, affirmation, and celebration of all BGLTQ identities and expressions, and strive to create a community where BGLTQ students can thrive and where all students are well-equipped to engage knowledgeably and compassionately with regard to gender and sexuality.


Chinese Art Media Lab (CAMLab)

CAMLab explores innovative ways of showcasing Chinese art and culture through immersive installations, exhibitions, films, digital publications, curatorial projects, and other multimedia forms. For more information, visit their website and Instagram


Questions? Contact Program Coordinator: anniechen@fas.harvard.edu


The Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies provides undergraduates studying China with a myriad of opportunities and resources, including funding to travel to China, information about programs in China, and opportunities to do research with respected scholars of Chinese studies. Visit their undergraduate resources page: https://fairbank.fas.harvard.edu/resources/undergraduate/


Free Peer Tutoring for Undergraduates

A new program implemented to replace the former Bureau of Study Council. Read more here.


The Harvard Asia Center generates and shares knowledge about Asia from a transnational and transregional perspective. With its core lectures, seminars series, and conferences, the Center engages with topics critical to Asia and its connections with other regions, bringing in notable academics, government officials, business leaders, and other specialists as featured speakers and panelists. Learn more about Asia Center lectures, events, and student grants here: https://asiacenter.harvard.edu/programs-events


The Harvard-Yenching Institute is an independent foundation dedicated to advancing higher education in Asia in the humanities and social sciences, with special attention to the study of Chinese culture. Learn more here.


International Chinese Studies Virtual Events Clearing-House

In spring 2020, as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, China Studies around the world moved online. One unanticipated consequence of this unfortunate situation is that it is now possible to attend events regardless of one’s location. The China Studies Virtual Events Clearing-house has been created to share information about upcoming online events with the broader China studies community. The clearing-house was created and is maintained by the Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies at Harvard University. Learn more here.


International Japan Studies Event Database

The International Japanese Studies Events Database was created in response to the Covid-19 pandemic and the shift to online event programming undertaken at institutions and programs worldwide. Inspired by a similar initiative within the Chinese studies community and Harvard's Fairbank Center, the Edwin O. Reischauer Institute of Japanese Studies, in cooperation with the Weatherhead Center Program on US-Japan Relations, has launched this site as a service to the wider Japanese studies community. Learn more here.


The Korea Institute provides dozens of funding, travel, grant, and research opportunities for undergraduates studying Korea. Visit their Student page here: https://korea.fas.harvard.edu/for-students


Korean Studies Portal

Click here.


Japan Digital Research Center (Reischauer Institute of Japanese Studies)

Click here.


Japan Disasters Digital Archive

Click here.


The Office of International Education can connect you with over 200 Harvard-approved study abroad programs across the world. Their advising team is also available for international students needing any help or guidance with Harvard matters. Click here.


The Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study is dedicated to creating and sharing transformative ideas across the arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Visit their events page here: https://www.radcliffe.harvard.edu/calendar/list


The Reischauer Institute of Japanese Studies is an excellent resource for EAS concentrators studying Japan. Find a calendar of Japan-related events and lectures, undergraduate grant information, and internship opportunities on their website: rijs.fas.harvard.edu

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Throwing an event? Starting a student group? Have a favorite poem or find a cool map?

Email me about it so I can spread the word!