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Jenna Gibson

Jenna Gibson

Jenna Gibson is a doctoral candidate in political science at the University of Chicago.

Jenna Gibson is a doctoral candidate in political science at the University of Chicago. Her research focuses on media coverage of foreign policy issues, particularly related to the Korean Peninsula.

Before pursuing her doctorate, Jenna was Director of Communications at the Korea Economic Institute of America (KEI), where she spearheaded KEI’s online and media outreach strategies, as well as writing analyses and hosting a weekly podcast.

She previously lived for two years in Cheonan, South Korea as a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant. There, she taught weekly English lessons to more than 700 middle school students. In addition, she led Fulbright Korea’s annual literary magazine and served as a mentor for incoming scholars.

Jenna earned a Master of Science in Foreign Service degree from Georgetown University in 2015. While at Georgetown, Jenna concentrated in global politics and security, with a particular focus on human rights and communications in East Asia. She graduated with a degree in journalism and international studies from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2011.

You can follow Jenna on Twitter at @jennargibson

Posts by Jenna Gibson
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August 14, 2020

Will South Korea Finally Have Its Reckoning on Sex Crimes?

By Jenna Gibson
Three major back-to-back incidents have brought the issue of sexual harassment and assault to a head once again.
August 06, 2020

Heavy Rains Wreak Havoc on South Korea

By Jenna Gibson
Flooding is widespread after weeks of downpours.

July 09, 2020

South Korea’s Conscientious Objectors Are Getting an Alternative to Military Service

By Jenna Gibson
For the first time, there is a official path for those who have religious or moral objections to South Korea’s mandatory military service for men.

June 04, 2020

South Korea’s Elderly Face Unique Challenges From COVID-19

By Jenna Gibson
Amid South Korea's struggle with the COVID-19 pandemic, the elderly face particular challenges -- and not just from the disease.

May 14, 2020

Korean Media Report Sparks Outcry Over Abuse of Indonesian Crew Members on Chinese Fishing Ships

By Jenna Gibson
MBC's shocking report on inhumane working conditions sparked international outrage.
April 23, 2020

What South Korea Thinks About the Kim Jong Un Health Rumors

By Jenna Gibson
While Seoul was quick to downplay the possibility, search trends and stock markets showed a fascination with the rumor that Kim was in critical condition.

April 02, 2020

Elections in the Time of COVID-19

By Jenna Gibson
South Korea’s ruling party hopes to maintain its control of the legislature in upcoming election.
March 12, 2020

COVID-19 Aggravates an Already Tense Korea-Japan Relationship

By Jenna Gibson
Just when things were looking up, the outbreak -- and dueling travel restrictions -- has complicated ties yet again.

January 30, 2020

Threat of Furloughs Looms Over Continuing US-Korea Burden-Sharing Talks

By Jenna Gibson
If Washington and Seoul can’t narrow the gap on their cost-sharing talks thousands of Koreans could start missing paychecks.

January 08, 2020

South Korea Plans for Uncertainty as US-Iran Tensions Rise

By Jenna Gibson
The assassination of Soleimani has South Korea scrambling to balance its ties between the U.S. and Iran.

December 20, 2019

Protesters Storm National Assembly, Capping off a Divisive Year for Korean Politics

By Jenna Gibson
Korea's conservative parties continue to up the ante in their opposition to Moon administration policies.
December 03, 2019

Korea Wakes up to the Deadly Consequences of Spy Cams and Cyberbullying

By Jenna Gibson
Three high-profile deaths in Korea reignite discussions around privacy, prosecution, and mental health.

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