Carter J. Eckert, 1945 - 2024

Dear Korea Institute Community,    

It is with deepest sadness that we announce the passing of Carter J. Eckert (1945 - 2024), Yoon Se Young Professor of Korean History Emeritus at Harvard University. An award-winning specialist on the economic and political history of modern Korea, Carter’s scholarship, teaching, and service shaped generations of students, inspired countless colleagues, and had a profound influence on the field of Korean Studies. Carter’s commitment to the study of Korea began in 1969 when he arrived in Seoul as a Peace Corps volunteer; it endured for a lifetime. At Harvard, Carter joined the Department of East Asian Languages and Civilizations in 1985 and served for eleven years as the Director of the Korea Institute (1993 – 2004), which he expanded and transformed through his labor and leadership. Earlier this year, Carter’s colleagues and former students organized a major symposium in his honor. His intellect, humility, generosity, and joyful laughter will be greatly missed. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Carter J. Eckert Endowment Fund at the Harvard Korea Institute. 

We will keep you informed as plans develop to honor his memory.  

Respectfully,  

 Nicholas Harkness Modern Korean Economy and Society Professor of Anthropology Director, Korea Institute, Harvard University