You’re Invited!

Join us for a focused research symposium co-hosted by Korea University and the University of Washington’s Center for Journalism, Media, and Democracy (CJMD). This event provides a small, interactive forum for graduate students and faculty from both institutions to share ongoing research, receive feedback, and engage in collaborative dialogue on social media, news consumption, and political communication.

Anyone interested in attending is welcome, however, registration is encouraged.

Date & Time: November 19th | 4:30 PM
Location: Virtual via Zoom: https://washington.zoom.us/j/9541245965
Register Here!
Presentations:

Sangwon Lee, Assistant Professor, School of Media & Communication, Korea University

From Virtuous to Self-Righteous? Rethinking Political Knowledge and Participation in the Social Media Age

Sangwon Lee challenges the traditional “virtuous circle” framework of media use and civic participation, proposing a “self-righteous circle” model. This new framework examines how social media news consumption can lead to a false sense of political knowledge and increased political engagement, often driven by selective exposure and reinforcement of existing beliefs. 

Russell Hansen, Doctoral Candidate in the Department of Communication at the University of Washington

Do I Belong Here? Exploring Perceptions of Inclusion in Online Political Discussion

Social media and online platforms provide spaces for political discussion, but these conversations are often seen as polarized and toxic. Hansen’s study examines how and why people feel included or excluded in online political discussions where participation is open to all. Findings highlight that feeling recognized as a valuable contributor fosters inclusion, though participating in large or loosely moderated spaces often entails uncertainty and risk.

About Korea University

Established in 1905, Korea University is one of South Korea’s oldest and most prestigious private universities. Located in Seoul, it offers a wide range of programs and emphasizes academic excellence and international collaboration.

About the UW-CJMD Partnership

This symposium represents the beginning of a new collaboration between UW and Korea University, created organically through faculty conversations and shared research interests. It provides a platform for academic exchange and strengthens ties between graduate students and researchers in journalism, media, and political communication.