The Institute of East and West Studies (IEWS) was established in 1972 as the Yonsei University’s representative institution for contributing to South Korea’s development through comprehensive academic research in Western culture in the fields of politics, the economy, the humanities, and social studies. In the 1980s, the institute solidified research on socialist countries, including those of the Eastern Bloc, and in the 1990s, initiated graduate-level regional studies programs at Yonsei University. In the 2000s, through forums and events centering on policy development, the institute conducted research on effective, sustainable alternatives to government policies.

IEWS oversees thirteen regional research centers, including the Leadership Center and the Jang Monet EU Center. It also oversees ten other research centers that focus on topics ranging from maritime studies, comparative cultural studies, non-profit organizations, regional centers of expertise, peace and security, international development cooperation, the air power program, to energy and human resource development.