The paper discussed here is impressive, if printed out 83 pages single space, containing 9 figures, 5 tables, 173 notes, the
reference list containing 30 positions. The second longest research paper written in history at KMLA.
Sim, Chi Kyu presents a thorough comparative analysis of the economic development of two former colonies in Asia. The paper
convinces by periodization. Sim, Chi Kyu's emphasis of the influence of politics, both domestic and international, on the
development of both national economies is fully justified; his judgment concise and convincing. While Sim, Chi Kyu's analysis of
neither South Korean nor Philipine economic history is original (73 out of 173 notes are ibids), his final analysis is, as, with the
exception of one title in his reference list, the academic publications on which Sim, Chi Kyu's analysis is based, deal either
with the Philippines or with the Republic of Korea.
Sim, Chi Kyu's opus went considerably beyond what is expected of a history research paper at high school level. It compares
in the depth of analysis to a 3rd year college presentation, in size to a masters' thesis.
This being the first reseach of such a scope Sim, Chi Kyu has written, he gained valuable experience in the process. Sim, Chi Kyu
has actively sought for my comment, has shown willingness to accept and implement constructive criticism, and dedication in
refining his paper until he and I were satisfied with it. When Sim, Chi Kyu realized that he could not complete the paper prior to an
important deadline, he did not drop his pen (as a number of his classmates did), but completing it knowing that he would not earn
any credit for it.
February 11th 2008
Alexander Ganse
