The '4th International Seminar for Parliamentary Research Services' hosted by the NARS took place on November 1, 2013. This international seminar was launched and has been hosted by the NARS since 2010, with the aim of building a network and enhancing cooperation among different research service bodies. This year's seminar was the biggest yet, attracting 60 delegates from 17 different countries including the U.S.A., Japan, Australia, India, Iran, and Uzbekistan.

Dr. Mary B. Mazanec, Director of Congressional Research Service of the U.S.A., opened the seminar with her keynote address during the seminar's first session on 'Parliamentary Research Service: Roles and Functions'. Delegates from different countries shared their experiences and best practices in supporting members. Dr. Ahn Myoung-ock, a former parliamentarian and professor at the Graduate School of Public Health and Welfare, CHA University, opened the second session-'Women's Political Participation: Issues, Challenges, and the Way Ahead'-with an inspiring speech. Nine other delegates presented their own experiences on the practices and challenges facing women's participation, which then led to productive discussion among the participants.

In addition to the seminar itself, delegates were able to engage in a number of bilateral meetings with NARS chief Dr. Koh Hyun-wook, as well as informative dialogue meetings with NARS researchers. The NARS also arranged a tour to Panmunjom (the abandoned village located on the de facto border of North and South Korea and historic place where the Korean Armistice Agreement was signed in 1953) for the seminar's delegates so they could learn more about Korea.

Based on the results of the 4th International Seminar, NARS expects to strengthen its global network and to upgrade its status on the world stage.