The Korea Forum was first established in 2002  to support and develop Korean studies at Duke and to enhance Korean visiting scholars' research endeavor and contributions.

Duke University is the only academic institution in the south-east U.S. which offers Korean and is moving towards establishing a vibrant Korean studies program. The Korea Forum organizes invited speaker series and conferences to introduce Duke students and faculty to current developments and issues in Korean studies.

A rapidly increasing number of academics, journalists, and government officials from South Korea are visiting Duke University and the area. In order to facilitate the interaction amongst the visitors and their entry to the community, the Korea Forum organizes activities and visits to representative local political and press institutions.