Mykolas Romeris University (MRU) hosted the international seminar Hybrid Operations and Emerging Security Challenges: Korean and Lithuanian Perspectives, bringing together researchers, security experts and public officials from Lithuania and Republic of Korea to discuss the evolving nature of hybrid operations and ways to strengthen democratic resilience.

Democracies facing common challenges

Welcoming the participants, MRU Vice-Rector Associate Professor Dr. Saulius Spurga emphasized that Lithuania and South Korea, despite the geographical distance, face similar security challenges.

"Honest discussions, sharing of experience, and future cooperation can effectively counteract the efforts of authoritarian regimes. Our greatest strength lies in our ability to openly discuss challenges, adapt to them, and learn from one another across borders."

The seminar focused on how authoritarian states increasingly employ hybrid operations – including disinformation, cyber activities, economic pressure and influence campaigns – to undermine democratic institutions and societal resilience. Speakers also discussed the changing geopolitical environment and the importance of strengthening cooperation between democratic partners.

International expertise

The panel discussion brought together experts from University and public institutions in Lithuania and South Korea. Among the speakers were Dr. Justinas Juozaitis (General Jonas Žemaitis Military Academy of Lithuania), Prof. Dr. Marius Kalinauskas (Mykolas Romeris University), Dr. Sungwon Lee (Sejong Institute, Republic of Korea), Dr. Bora Park (Institute for National Security Strategy, Republic of Korea) and Jovitas Raškevičius, First Deputy Director of Lithuania's Special Investigation Service (STT).

Bringing together both researchers and practitioners, the seminar encouraged the exchange of perspectives on emerging security challenges and reinforced the importance of international cooperation in addressing hybrid operations.