We are pleased to announce that the University of Bath Institute for Policy Research (IPR) has renewed its Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Republic of South Korea’s Ministry of Employment and Labor (MOEL).

Renewed for another five years, the MOU promotes knowledge exchange and collaboration between the institutions, enabling ministry staff to spend up to one year at the University of Bath focusing on a research project that aligns with the IPR’s portfolio.

Since the MOU was first signed five years ago, six MOEL staff have participated in the scheme. Visiting Fellows have been involved with current policy debates at the national and international level, providing original and inspiring analysis of complex policy problems, and have engaged and networked with colleagues across the University.

The renewal further strengthens the partnership between the IPR and the government of South Korea, with a similar MOU in place with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) and with one year Visiting Fellows from the South Korean Office for Government Policy Co-ordination, the Prime Minister’s Secretariat and the Ministry of Interior and Safety, as well as collaboration and exchange with Yonsei University, over the past six years.

Amy Thompson, Head of Policy Programmes and Communications at IPR, said:

“The IPR is delighted to renew this MOU with MOEL, as we have greatly enjoyed welcoming all six Visiting Policy Fellows over the past five years. The opportunity for the IPR and colleagues from MOEL to participate in this exchange has brought many benefits to both sides and has enabled the IPR to foster new connections and networks in South Korea, working directly with policymakers from the South Korean government. We look forward to welcoming new colleagues from MOEL to Bath over the coming years, and the mutual learning and opportunities this will bring.”