Dear Colleagues,



Recently the ICLA President and one of its General Secretaries visited Korea and spent a considerable amount of time in discussion with the local planning committee in inspecting the venue of the Conference and looking over the accommodations that will be available at a special conference rate. We are happy to report that the plans for the Congress, which will take place in Seoul, are well advanced and promise to provide a memorable experience. Meetings were held with the local convention board, the leadership of the Korean Comparative Literature Association, and the President of the host University (Chung Ang University). All were extremely supportive and eager to make the 2010 Congress a success in every sense. In discussion with the Planning Committee, it was decided that the deadline for the submission of panel proposals and paper abstracts should be extended to June 30th. All members of the ICLA should very shortly be receiving a copy of the Second Circular in the mail, which provides detailed information on registration, accommodations, program organization, and the many cultural events that will be available.


We left Korea confident that the planning of the 2010 Congress was in able hands, was on track with regard to timely planning, and had already made all necessary prior arrangements. We fully anticipate that the Congress will be completely successful, in accordance with the high standards that have been set by previous ICLA gatherings and offer a venue that will not only meet our needs, but also provide much that is of cultural interest. We look forward to the opportunity of once again greeting colleagues from all parts of the world.



-Steven


Steven P. Sondrup

ICLA General Secretary