My research examines the behavioral foundations of state capacity: when and why state agents comply, discriminate, cooperate, or resist. I study how political, social, and professional identities shape behavior inside bureaucratic and military institutions, with consequences for bureaucratic performance, inclusion, and accountability.
To fulfill the military service duty as a South Korean male citizen while working on my dissertation project, I am working as a lecturer of military history (first lieutenant) at Korea Army Academy from June 2024 to May 2027. I am particularly excited about this valuable opportunity to improve my teaching skills and also conduct fieldwork in the country of my academic interest.