Research is a core value of KDI School. Being a sister institution to the Korean Development Institute, one of the foremost think tanks in the world, KDI School understands the critical significance of research in our world today and strives to maintain an environment that nurtures curiosity in the areas of policy, economics, management, and development.

We had an opportunity to engage a student who is at the forefront of questioning approaches for new norms through research, Ruli Aprilia. Aprilia is from Indonesia and is currently enrolled in the MPM program. In this interview article, Ruli shared her current research work, ideas, and what she hopes to accomplish through the instrumentality of her research work.

You have distinguished yourself as a student who is very research oriented. What would you say led you to this path?

My interest in research began in high school. I knew then that I needed to refine my ability to communicate my ideas and gather relevant information, hence I made efforts to fine-tune my writing skills by participating in various writing training programs. As a university undergraduate, I continued on the same path by participating in several writing and research competitions.

How would you describe your research interests? 

My background in communication studies has influenced my research interests. However, exposure from KDI School has expanded my interests towards comparative communication strategies for international development.

Have you made any research publications before now? 

Yes. In March this year, I published a research paper in the Trunojoyo Communication Journal (Vol. 17, No. 1, March 2023, EISSN 2549-4902) titled Digital Culture and Individuals： Analysis of the Influence of Digital Culture on Individuals. The paper explored the correlation between internet usage and information consumption preferences among educated young adults.

Are you currently working on any research paper? 

Yes, I just concluded a research paper titled Strengthening ASEAN-Korea Cooperation from a Youths Perspective, but it is currently undergoing revision by the ASEAN-Korean Center. Once it is approved by the Center, I plan to publish it.

Interesting. Can you elaborate on this research project and what makes it so significant?

This project highlights the awareness gap between ASEAN and Korean youths and underscores the importance of building stronger awareness and social understanding between them. The significance of this research is in the context of enhancing and promoting future innovative partnerships between the two regions, particularly in electric vehicles. Moreover, through this paper’s findings and the implementation of its recommendations, one of which is to establish more youth forums in Korean universities, the effort on KDI School's part to enhance collaboration can be intensified and consolidated. The existence of the ASEAN forum at KDI School aligns with the ASEAN vision of adaptability and connectivity.

So, the research work is a formal collaboration? 

Although this research was supported by information from the ASEAN-Korean Center, which is an intergovernmental organization that aims to promote exchanges between Korea and the ten ASEAN members, it was not a formal collaboration. Additionally, I was fortunate to receive some informational support and guidance from Professor Lee Seung Jo (KDI School).

Impressive! Can you share your postgraduation plans? 

I plan to continue my studies and pursue a PhD, but before moving on to a PhD, I hope to work with international organizations, NGOs, or ASEAN organizations to gain more experience as a professional researcher.