Welcome to the Royal Asiatic Society-Korea Branch
The Royal Asiatic Society Korea Branch (RAS-KB), after ten years of activity, was officially recognized by the London headquarters in 1900. As such, the RAS-KB is the oldest organization in Korea designed to introduce people to the beauty of this land in all its many aspects. It is also arguably the most active international cultural and social organization in Korea. The society offers both academic and 'low-brow' offerings for better understanding Korea with priorities placed on accurate insights and pleasurable means of learning.
The RAS-KB, a non-profit organization, aims to help people enhance their understanding of the arts, customs, history, social trends, and landscapes of Korea through lectures, cultural excursions, publications and special interest groups.
Our members are from all walks of life, all nationalities, all ages, all profession. Anyone with a sense of adventure and a bit of intellectual curiosity is welcome. Come and join us! Members receive a free copy of our Transactions and can use our library. Please also check out our weekly updated RAS Korea Facebook page!
Starting from Dec. 11, we have two volunteers serving our office to handle book sales, assist Library visitors, etc. Please look at the bottom of this page for exact office hours. In any case, we strongly advise to call ahead to the RAS Korea to confirm someone is in the office on the day of your intended visit.
Upcoming Lectures
| Date | Title | Lecturer | Venue | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Tuesday, June 18, 2019 - 7:30pm to 9:00pm |
How Korea Created and then Destroyed the Martial Sport of Taekwondo | Dr. Steven D. Capener | Second floor Residents’ Lounge, Somerset Palace | 10,000 won for non-members and 5,000 won for student non-members (with Student ID); free for members |
|
Tuesday, June 25, 2019 - 7:30pm to 9:00pm |
Korea during the 1880's through 1910: Modernisation and Reforms | Mr. Peter Bartholomew | Second floor Residents’ Lounge, Somerset Palace | 10,000won for non-members and 5,000won for student non-members; free for members |
Upcoming Excursions/Visits
| Date | Destination(s) | Tour Leader | Cost | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Korean Peace Bonanza: An Economic Case for Settling the Korean Issue |
Thursday, May 23, 2019 - 6:00pm to 8:00pm |
Korea University, Asiatic Research Institute, Rm #310 | Dr. Lonnie EDGE | Free |
| Cool Gangneung |
Saturday, May 25, 2019 - 8:15am to 9:45pm |
Gangneung city old downtown | Mr. Robert Koehler | 60,000won for members and 72,000won for non-members (not incl. meals) |
| Korean Literature Club: "North Station" by Bae Suah (translated by Deborah Smith) |
Thursday, May 30, 2019 - 7:00pm to 9:00pm |
North Terrace Cafe | Yonjoo Hong, Brother Anthony | Free |
| Temple Stay at Ancient Asian Woodblock Museum |
Saturday, June 8, 2019 - 9:00am to Sunday, June 9, 2019 - 3:00pm |
Myeongju temple in Wonju | Ms. Lissa Miner | W115,000 for members and W138,000 for non-members |
| Songnisan National Park and Beopjusa |
Saturday, June 22, 2019 - 8:30am to 8:30pm |
North Chungcheong Province (Chungcheongbuk-do) | Ms. Sue J. Bae | W70,000 for members and W84,000 for non-members (Meal not incl.) |
