AEMS News and Reviews: Summer 2009 (Issue: #32)

Abstract

This issue explores themes of conflict, reconciliation, education, and cultural identity across Asia and beyond. "Making Peace with Vietnam" reflects on the lingering consequences of the Vietnam War and the desire for reconciliation between Vietnamese and Americans, focusing on human suffering caused by the war. "Two Million Minutes" examines educational pressures and systems in China, India, and the U.S., highlighting global academic competition and comparing student priorities. North Korea’s repressive regime and profound humanitarian challenges are exposed through two powerful documentaries: "Seoul Train", focused on the escape routes of defectors, and "Children of the Secret State", portraying life under totalitarian control and the devastating famine. "Sumo East and West" investigates Japan’s traditional sport as it intersects with global influences, especially American culture from Hawai‘i. A featured website review introduces "About Japan: A Teacher’s Resource", a valuable platform for K-12 educators integrating Japanese studies into the classroom.Center for East Asian and Pacific Studie