경제학의 변용과 해외지역연구의 방향

It is widely recognized that area studies in Korea are in question. While scholars in this field have devoted significant efforts to identify its characteristics as an independent academic discipline, relatively less endeavors have made to elaborate its methodology and to enrich its contents. In this context, contributions by economists to area studies are essential to upgrade the discipline's scientific level. In spite of growing needs on economic information of foreign states in the real world and the applicability of economics methodology to area studies, interactions between two academic fields are yet to be developed. The on-going metamorphosis in economics brings significant implications on area studies. Most of all, the integrating trends between regional economics and international economics is the most relevant development for area specialists to watch. The birth of new economic geography, yet to overcome controversies about its identity, might be the end result of the trends. It can be a useful tool to analyze evolution among regions, which is again one of quintessential parts of area studies. The current thesis also addresses suggestions to make area studies in Korea to be a full-fledged academic discipline.