Myong Kun (Chris) Shin is an Associate at The Asia Group, bringing a diverse portfolio of expertise on South Korean and Indo-Pacific political, economic, and security dynamics. Based in Washington DC as a member of the Korea practice, Chris supports clients by analyzing complex geopolitical landscapes and delivering actionable insights into defense, economic, and political initiatives across the region.
Prior to joining The Asia Group, Chris served as an Intelligence Officer in the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army, contributing to key bilateral initiatives under the ROK-U.S. Alliance at the Ministry of National Defense and Joint Chiefs of Staff. His role involved advising senior military leaders from both nations during Alliance consultations and shaping strategies for high-stakes negotiations, including the Special Measures Agreement and contingency planning for the Alliance.
Chris earned a Master of Public Policy from the University of Chicago, where he was a Fellow at the Pearson Institute for the Study and Resolution of Global Conflicts and served as Co-President of Harris Student Government. He graduated top of his class at Korea University with a Master’s in Political Science concentrating in international relations. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Business and Political Economy from New York University Stern School of Business, completing study abroad programs in London and Shanghai.
Born in Seoul and having split his upbringing between South Korea and the United States, Chris is fluent in Korean and English. During his spare time, Chris enjoys watching professional sports and playing golf, as he was the captain of Choate Rosemary Hall varsity golf team.