U.S.-ROK-Japan Trilateral Next-Gen Study Group

The U.S.-ROK-Japan Next-Gen Study Group was founded in 2025 by two alumni of the U.S. Department of State sponsored U.S.-ROK-Japan Young Trilateral Leaders (YTL) Summit. Drawing from the Spirit of Camp David that started the YTL program, the Study Group aims to serve as a future-oriented initiative that brings together emerging leaders from the three countries to discuss pressing issues from defense to economic security on a regular basis. Members represent a diverse array of sectors, ranging from national and economic security to private industry, business innovation, and emerging technologies. The Study Group’s strength lies in its ability to convene voices that cut across disciplines, industries, and national borders, offering fresh perspectives that complement the wisdom of established policymakers.

1. Foster Collaboration: Establish a sustainable platform for next-generation leaders to engage in trilateral cooperation. 2. Generate Insights: Facilitate innovative solutions and strategies for the public and private sectors in the United States, South Korea, and Japan. 3. Build Networks: Create a vibrant, cross-sectoral network of professionals working in national security, technology, sustainability, and public diplomacy. 4. Ensure Continuity: Amplify work in existing programs and mitigate risks posed by geopolitical uncertainties through a resilient, future-oriented group.

1. Monthly Member Meetings: Full session dedicated to discussing the latest developments and any issues of interest to members. Includes presentations by members on their work or research related to the trilateral. 2. Sub-Group Meetings: Deeper dialogue in specific focus areas, including 1) National Security and Defense; 2) Sustainability and Energy; 3) Global Governance and the Rule of Law; 4) Emerging and Critical Technologies; 5) Economic Security, Trade, and Investments; 6) Education, Culture, and Public Diplomacy. 3. Guest Sessions: Discussions with guest speakers (practitioners, scholars, think tank researchers, etc.) to enrich discussions and insights. 4. In-Person Events: Policy roundtables, seminars, and symposiums (both public and closed) with stakeholders in Tokyo, Washington, and Seoul to discuss various issues concerning the trilateral.

Joint projects/events Connecting our members with external organizations for networking and policy discussions