The KDI School of Public Policy and Management stands as a beacon for aspiring policy experts in South Korea. Affiliated with the Korea Development Institute (KDI), a premier government think tank, this graduate institution trains leaders in public administration, development economics, and policy analysis. Situated in Sejong-si, the administrative capital designed for efficiency and innovation, it offers a unique environment for academic careers. Jobs at KDI School of Public Policy and Management span faculty, research, and support roles, attracting professionals passionate about shaping global policies.
Established to address Korea's need for high-caliber policy professionals, the school has grown into an international hub since 1997. Its English-taught programs draw students from over 70 countries, fostering a diverse academic community. For those seeking meaningful work, careers here combine rigorous research with real-world impact on economic development and governance.
The Korea Development Institute, founded in 1971, created the KDI School in 1997 to cultivate advanced policy talent. Initially focused on domestic needs during Korea's rapid industrialization, it expanded globally post-Asian Financial Crisis to support developing nations. Key milestones include launching the Master of Public Policy (MPP) in 2000, the Master of Public Administration in International Development (MPA/ID) in 2003, and PhD programs in 2008. Today, it boasts partnerships with World Bank, ADB, and universities worldwide, enhancing its reputation for policy research excellence.
Located in Sejong-si since 2012, the campus reflects modern Korean planning with state-of-the-art facilities. Alumni hold positions in governments, international organizations, and academia, underscoring the school's influence. Understanding this history is crucial for job seekers at KDI School, as positions often involve contributing to legacy projects in economic policy and sustainable development.
KDI School offers graduate degrees emphasizing practical policy skills. Core programs include:
Departments cover Public Policy, Development Policy, and Public Management, with centers for big data analysis, fiscal studies, and global governance. Faculty jobs involve teaching these programs, supervising theses, and conducting interdisciplinary research. For insights into lecturer roles, check our lecturer jobs section.
Careers at KDI School vary from academic to administrative. Faculty positions include assistant, associate, and full professors in policy fields. Research professors lead projects on governance and economics. Administrative roles encompass admissions, international affairs, and career services. Postdoctoral fellowships support early-career researchers. For a full overview, explore university job types.
Recent openings have included tenure-track positions in development economics and visiting professorships. Non-tenure roles like adjunct professors offer flexibility for practitioners. Higher ed jobs here emphasize impact, with opportunities in research jobs and professor jobs.
Faculty positions demand a PhD in public policy, economics, political science, or aligned disciplines from reputable institutions. Research roles require Master's minimum, preferably PhD. Administrative staff need Bachelor's or Master's in relevant areas, with advanced degrees advantageous for senior positions. International candidates benefit from English proficiency, as programs are bilingual.
KDI School prioritizes expertise in development economics, public finance, governance, digital policy, and sustainable development. Faculty research often aligns with Korea's OECD experience, addressing issues like inequality and climate policy. Successful applicants demonstrate publications in top journals like Journal of Development Economics. Grants from KDI or international bodies are valued.
Preferred candidates have 3-5 years post-PhD experience, peer-reviewed publications (5+ for tenure-track), and policy consulting or government work. International exposure, such as at IMF or World Bank, strengthens applications. Teaching experience in graduate seminars is essential. View academic CV tips for preparation.
Key skills include quantitative analysis (STATA, R), policy modeling, grant writing, and cross-cultural communication. Soft competencies: leadership, teamwork, and adaptability in a dynamic policy environment. Korean language aids integration, though not mandatory. Research assistants need data skills; see research assistant advice, adaptable here.
Applications open yearly via the KDI School career portal. Submit CV, cover letter, research/teaching statements, and 3 references. Interviews involve seminars and policy discussions. Tips:
Deadlines vary; monitor university jobs listings.
KDI School champions diversity through the Global Leaders Program, scholarships for 50%+ international students, and faculty hires from Asia, Africa, Latin America. Women in Policy initiatives support gender balance (30% female faculty). Equal opportunity policies align with Korean law, with mentorship for underrepresented groups. Recent efforts include DEI workshops and inclusive hiring.
In Sejong-si, the campus promotes balance with flexible hours, 30+ vacation days, and wellness programs. Proximity to nature and Seoul (1-hour train) aids recreation. Faculty enjoy research sabbaticals every 7 years. Cafes, gyms, and family support make it family-friendly. Public sector perks include pensions and health coverage superior to private universities.
MPP (Master of Public Policy): A graduate degree focusing on policy design, analysis, and implementation skills.
MPA/ID (Master of Public Administration in International Development): Program targeting economic development professionals for global roles.
Tenure-track: Academic path leading to permanent position after review of research/teaching.
Postdoctoral Fellowship: Temporary research role post-PhD for career advancement.
Ready for jobs at KDI School of Public Policy and Management? Explore higher ed jobs, career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com. Connect with opportunities in South Korea via our Korea jobs section.
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