The contact hypothesis predicts that Lee’s efforts should result
in at least some success. In general, the contact hypothesis
suggests that interpersonal contact is the most effective way of
reducing biases among conflicting groups ( Wagner, Tropp,
Finchilescu, & Tredoux, 2008 ). And although Lee’s efforts are
geared toward children who may not yet have developed these
biases, positive benefits may be seen in the unprejudiced views
of these children as they age, as well as the views of watchful
Korean nationals who observe this contact. However, for contact
to truly be effective, research tells us that it must occur amid
certain conditions. First, contact must be between equal status
groups. If one country’s children are treated as subordinate to
those of the other country, contact is unlikely to yield
positive outcomes. Second, the two groups must share common
goals. For children, one common goal may be as simple as having
fun. For adults, these goals may revolve around reducing
tensions among North and Sout