SCA Managing Partner, key team member co-author book on Russian - South Korean cultural ties and intercultural dialogue

13/10/2025

In September SCA Managing Partner Andrew Afanasiev and long-time real estate and retail trade project stream lead, Korean studies expert Anna Stebenkova jointly published a book commemorating the 35th anniversary of Russian - South Korean diplomatic relations (Sep 30, 2025). The book examines the development and current status of bilateral cultural ties, as well as humanitarian exchanges in areas such as tourism, education, religion, and national cuisine. The authors set out to determine what has been successful over the last century and a half of close bilateral ties, and what needs to be improved in corresponding spheres, plus possible directions for strengthening cooperation. This became the third book over the last five years where Andrew Afanasiev served as both editor-in-chief and co-author or key contributor.

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A bevy of experts in both countries have contributed essays describing their love for, respectively, Russian or South Korean culture, impressions of life in either country, and memorable cultural events. The essay writers included several former Ambassadors to both countries, renowned scholars, and representatives of cultural institutions and large corporations. Some of these experts also outlined their views on the prospects and ways of furtherning mutually beneficial cultural cooperation. The book also explores the success of the "Korean wave", Hallyu, worldwide and in Russia in particular, its key drivers and success factors, plus similarities and differences in perceptions and preferences in culture between Russians and South Koreans. 

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The book's writing and publication took three full years in total, as the authors scoured numerous sources in various languages, interviewed esteemed experts in corresponding areas of interest, and sought assistance from related government and academic instutions and cultural organizations. The work was supported by two Korean sponsors, including Mr. Chang Chi-hyeok, sponsor of the first book on Russian - South Korean relations, published with Andrew Afanasiev and Anna Stebenkova's participation in early 2022 and covering political and economic aspects, and another sponsor who chose to remain anonymous. On the Russian side, there were also two sponsors, namely Mr. Roman Iliev, entrepreneur, maecenas and public figure, and Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO). The authors note the overwhelming support they received from all organizations and experts involved in both countries in the process of writing the book, and extend their heartfelt gratitude thereto.

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Importantly, the authors firmly believe that nations need to continue cooperation in mutually beneficial matters inasmuch as possible, despite potential disagreements on political issues. Maintaining and developing cultural ties and intercultural dialogue can go a long way in fostering mutual understanding and learning to resolve arising complications. We are happy to see representatives of various walks of life retaining interest in joint projects, and hope this book spurs more actors to partake in advancing cultural cooperation. ​​​​​​​​​