한국신종교학회의 성과와 전망

Abstract

This article has been written to retrospect the achievements of the Korean Academy of New Religions(KANR) over its 25-year research activities and to provide insights into the future research prospects. Established in 1999, KANR has maintained continuous research activities through the publication of 48 academic journals and the organization of various academic events. These activities can be categorized into five main areas. Firstly, research on new religions, including field surveys and academic conferences. Secondly, the publication of academic journals and related books, encompassing conference materials, regular academic meeting documents, periodic journal publications, as well as research reports and related academic book publications. Thirdly, the organization of regular academic conferences and lecture sessions. Fourthly, international research collaborations, involving joint surveys and co-organized international academic conferences with foreign new religion associations. Fifthly, the collection, classification, preservation, exhibition, and promotion of relevant materials (books and artifacts), as well as the promotion of related educational institutions. The article proceeds to delineate six research prospects for the KANR. Firstly, there is a need for new research related to the identity of Korean new religions. Secondly, there is an ongoing demand for sustained interest in the contemporary phenomena of secularism and the potential for new alternative religions, which have garnered attention in recent years. Thirdly, there is an imperative to further promote new religion research with a focus on the East Asian region. Fourthly, it is essential to foster research interest in minority religions within Korea. Fifthly, there is a need for the publication of monographs aimed at a general readership. Lastly, KANR should reevaluate the future prospects of new religions in the rapidly changing landscape of modern civilization. In conclusion, it is believed that new religion studies hold continuous research potential despite the evolving developments in future human civilization.