Dr. Gi Wook Shin

Professor

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Biography

Gi-Wook Shin is the William J. Perry Professor of Sociology at Stanford University and a Senior Fellow at the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies. He has been influential in developing research themes around social movements, nationalism, and democratic processes, particularly in Asian contexts. With extensive experience in teaching and research, Shin launched the Stanford Asia Policy Lab (SNAPL) in 2023, which focuses on critical societal challenges in Asia. His works include multiple books such as 'Korean Democracy Crisis: Threat of Illiberalism, Populism, and Polarization' and 'North Korean Conundrum: Balancing Human Rights with Nuclear Security.' Shin has also contributed to various academic journals and is a frequent voice in policy discussions. His academic journey includes significant appointments and leadership roles, emphasizing his commitment to advancing Korean studies and fostering international dialogue on policy issues. He has taught at prestigious institutions such as the University of Iowa and the University of California, Los Angeles before joining Stanford in 2001.

Research Interests

Korean Democratization Korean Nationalism U.S.-Korea Relations North Korean Politics Reconciliation Cooperation in Northeast Asia Global Talent Multiculturalism Inter-Korean Relations

Experience

Professor

2001-01-01 — Present

Stanford University • Stanford, CA

Teaching and research in Sociology with an emphasis on Korean studies and international relations.

Senior Fellow

2005-01-01 — Present

Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies • Stanford, CA

Focused on Asia-Pacific relations and global talent development.

Founding Director

2024-01-01 — Present

Taiwan Program, Stanford University • Stanford, CA

Established a new initiative to study Taiwan's role in Asia.

Director

2005-01-01 — Present

Walter H. Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center • Stanford, CA

Oversees research and policy analysis on Asia-Pacific issues.

Courses

SOC 292 SOC 392 EASTASN 300 SOC 391 SOC 390 SOC 395 URBANST 199 SOC 196 SOC 191 SOC 190 SOC 192 SOC 309 INTNLREL 143 SOC 111 SOC 211 INTLPOL 244D SOC 167A SOC 267A SOC 316

Requirements for Stanford University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:26
Reading
Required:26
Writing
Required:26
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:100
GRE General
Verbal
Required:160
Quantitative
Required:165
Analytical Writing
Required:4.5
Overall
Required:4.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor degree from an accredited institution Strong background in mathematics and programming
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

The Computer Science department emphasizes research potential. GRE General is currently optional but recommended for some tracks.