Karen Lee

Research Associate, Southeast Asia Program
Karen Lee

Karen Lee is a research associate with the Southeast Asia Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. She is a dual-degree MA graduate from Tsinghua University and the John Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, where she concentrated in international development and Southeast Asia studies. Previously, Karen has worked at the US-ASEAN Business Council, the Asia Group, and McLarty Associates. Karen received her BA in international relations from Stanford University, where she graduated with honors. Born and partially raised in Bethesda, Maryland, Karen is proficient in multiple languages, including Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and Spanish. She has a working knowledge of Korean, French, and Bahasa Indonesia.

Programs & Projects

All content by Karen Lee

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Southeast Asia Radio

Welcome to Pacific Airwaves! – Secretary Blinken goes to Papua New Guinea

In the inaugural episode of Pacific Airwaves, Karen and Jared discuss President Biden’s cancelled trip to Papua New Guinea, the renewal of Compacts of Free Association agreements with Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia, and new U.S. Embassies in the Pacific Islands. 

Podcast Episode by Karen Lee — May 25, 2023

CSIS Southeast Asia Radio

The Latest on Southeast Asia: May 25, 2023

The inclusion of Vietnam and Indonesia at the G7 summit reflects the growing importance of Southeast Asia as a region vital to the interests of the bloc's members.

Blog Post by Karen Lee — May 25, 2023

Southeast Asia Radio

Understanding the Thai Elections with Ken Mathis Lohatepanont

Greg and Elina talk with Ken Mathis Lohatepanont to discuss the results of Thailand’s general elections and what the Move Forward Party’s historic win means for the country’s political future.

Podcast Episode by Gregory B. Poling and Karen Lee — May 18, 2023

CSIS Southeast Asia Radio
Southeast Asia Radio

Southeast Asia Radio One-Year Anniversary Special: Listener Q&A

Greg and Elina celebrate Southeast Asia Radio’s one-year anniversary with Andreyka Natalegawa, Danielle Fallin, and Karen Lee of the Southeast Asia Program team.

Podcast Episode by Gregory B. Poling , Andreyka Natalegawa , Danielle Fallin , and Karen Lee — May 4, 2023

CSIS Southeast Asia Radio

The Latest on Southeast Asia: April 27, 2023

The past month has seen significant developments in election landscapes across Southeast Asia. Three countries in particular are worth tracking in the coming months.

Blog Post by Karen Lee and Gregory B. Poling — April 27, 2023

Southeast Asia Radio

The Reinvigoration of the U.S.-Philippines Alliance with Charmaine Willoughby

Greg and Elina sit down with Charmaine Willoughby to discuss the latest flurry of developments in the U.S.-Philippines Alliance, including the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, Balikatan joint military exercises, and new EDCA sites. 

Podcast Episode by Gregory B. Poling and Karen Lee — April 20, 2023

CSIS Southeast Asia Radio