• Korea-France Elevate Ties to ‘Global Strategic Partnership’ at Summit Marking 140 Years of Diplomacy

    President Lee Jae-myung held a summit with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Blue House on April 3, where the two leaders discussed ways to advance bilateral relations recently elevated to a “Global Strategic Partnership,” as well as key regional and international issues.   The meeting coincided with the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and France. President Lee welcomed President Macron’s first visit to Korea since taking office, noting its significance as the first state visit by a European leader since the launch of Korea’s new administration. President Macron described the trip as especially meaningful, marking his first visit to Korea in 11 years as French president.   The two leaders exchanged views on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and its broader implications, agreeing on the urgent need to restore stability and peace in the region. They also shared policy experiences and strategies aimed at minimizing economic disruptions and protecting livelihoods. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening energy security through expanded cooperation in nuclear energy and offshore wind power, as well as ensuring safe maritime transport routes in the Strait of Hormuz.   The summit also served as an opportunity to assess the progress of bilateral relations since the establishment of a “Comprehensive Partnership for the 21st Century” in 2004. The leaders highlighted the elevation of ties to a strategic level after 22 years and agreed to further deepen cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including defense and security, trade and investment, and advanced strategic industries such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum technology, space, and nuclear energy. Cultural and people-to-people exchanges were also identified as key areas for expansion.     On the occasion of the summit, the two countries revised three agreements and signed 11 memoranda of understanding and letters of intent, laying the institutional groundwork for future cooperation. The leaders also adopted a joint statement outlining the direction of bilateral relations moving forward.

• Korea National Arboretum, AFoCO Sign MOU to Expand Forest Biodiversity Cooperation

    The Korea National Arboretum of the Korea Forest Service announced on March 13 that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Asian Forest Cooperation Organization (AFoCO) to strengthen forest biodiversity conservation and expand international cooperation.   The agreement follows the expiration of a previous MOU signed in 2021 and is intended to sustain and broaden the existing partnership. Under the renewed framework, the two institutions will collaborate across a range of areas, including forest biodiversity conservation and joint research, the exchange of expertise and research data, cooperation in international conferences and seminars, and network-building activities. The partnership will also promote biodiversity conservation efforts and public awareness through public-private cooperation.   Notably, the new agreement introduces initiatives aimed at raising awareness of biodiversity conservation through public-private partnerships, with plans to expand programs involving diverse stakeholders such as corporations and institutions. Given that many AFoCO member countries operate arboretums and botanical gardens, collaboration centered on these institutions is expected to play a key role in addressing both climate change and the global biodiversity crisis.   The Korea National Arboretum has also been advancing international cooperation through its partnership with Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI). Last year, the two organizations jointly proclaimed the International Day of Botanic Garden Education, an initiative designed to expand global networks among arboretumsand botanical gardens while strengthening responses to the climate crisis. This year, Brunei and Indonesia—both AFoCO member states—are expected to participate in the observance on June 12, further enhancing international collaboration based on arboretumsand botanical gardens.   Lim Young-seok, Director of the Korea National Arboretum, said the agreement will serve as an opportunity to deepen cooperation with AFoCO and expand global partnerships. He added that these efforts will contribute not only to forest biodiversity conservation but also to elevating the international standing and role of the national arboretum.

• APEC 2026 SOM1 and Related Meetings Held in Guangzhou

      The First Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM1) of the 2026 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum and its related meetings were held in Guangzhou from February 1 to 10. The Korean government delegation, led by Park Jong-han, Deputy Minister for Economic Diplomacy and Coordination at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, participated in the Senior Officials’ Meeting as well as the four main committees: the Committee on Trade and Investment (CTI), the Steering Committee on Economic and Technical Cooperation (SCE), the Economic Committee (EC), and the Budget and Management Committee (BMC). The delegation took part in discussions aimed at delivering substantive outcomes for APEC 2026. At the meeting, the Korean delegation, as the previous year’s host economy, expressed its support for a successful APEC 2026 and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the key outcomes of the 2025 Leaders’ Meeting are faithfully carried forward and further developed throughout the 2026 APEC process. China presented the theme and priority areas for APEC 2026 as “Building an Asia-Pacific Community to Prosper Together: Openness, Innovation, Cooperation,” and outlined major deliverables under each priority area. It also announced plans to host more than ten sectoral ministerial meetings and high-level dialogues, including meetings of Ministers Responsible for Trade, Digital and AI Ministers, and Transport Ministers. In addition, China introduced its plan to organize various high-level forums on digitalization and innovation during a “Digital Week.” As discussions at the sectoral ministerial meetings are expected to culminate in outcomes at the Leaders’ Meeting in November, the Korean government plans to actively engage in the process to ensure that the key achievements of the 2025 Leaders’ Meeting are fully reflected throughout this year’s APEC agenda. On the sidelines of the meeting, Deputy Minister Park held bilateral consultations with major members, including China, Japan, Canada, and Vietnam. The discussions covered China’s priorities and key deliverables for APEC 2026, follow-up measures to the previous year’s Leaders’ Meeting hosted by Korea, and the review and revision of the Aotearoa Plan of Action. Meanwhile, as the previous host economy, Korea has assumed the chairmanship of the Budget and Management Committee (BMC), which oversees and manages APEC’s budget this year. Lee Ji-yoon, Director-General for International Economic Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, chaired the first BMC meeting on February 9. Beginning with this first Senior Officials’ Meeting, APEC members will continue consultations centered on the theme and priority areas presented by China, with a view to advancing sustainable economic growth and regional economic integration in the Asia-Pacific region ahead of the Leaders’ Meeting scheduled for November 18–19.  

• ROK–NATO Hold 15th Policy Consultation in Brussels

    The 15th ROK–NATO Policy Consultation was held in Brussels on January 15, with senior officials from both sides meeting to exchange views on the international security environment and discuss ways to further strengthen the ROK–NATO partnership.   The meeting was co-chaired by Yoon Jong-kwon, Ambassador for International Cyber Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, and Boris Ruge, NATO Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs and Security Policy. The two sides shared assessments of current global security challenges and explored avenues for enhancing bilateral cooperation.   Both sides agreed that, amid growing geopolitical uncertainty driven by factors such as U.S.–China competition and the war in Ukraine, cooperation among like-minded partners has become more important than ever in responding to complex and overlapping crises. They emphasized the need for close ROK–NATO coordination to address shared security threats, noting the increasing interconnectedness between security in Europe and the Indo-Pacific region.   The participants also noted that over the past four years, the ROK–NATO relationship has experienced remarkable growth through high-level exchanges, including the Republic of Korea’s participation in NATO summits and ministerial meetings. In this context, they welcomed the launch of the ROK–NATO Defense Industry Consultative Body last year, which has further expanded the scope of cooperation between the two sides.   Looking ahead, both sides reaffirmed the significant potential for deepening ROK–NATO cooperation across a wide range of areas, including cybersecurity, defense industry cooperation, advanced technologies, information sharing, and space security. They agreed to continue efforts to further strengthen and institutionalize practical cooperation going forward.

• Korea Designated as WHO Collaborating Centre for Food Safety Emergency Response

  The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) announced that it will hold a plaque-unveiling ceremony on November 27 at the first floor of its headquarters to mark the World Health Organization’s (WHO) designation of the MFDS as a WHO Collaborating Centre for Emergency Preparedness and Response in Food Safety.   The designation is the first of its kind globally in the field of food-safety emergency response. It reflects the WHO’s recognition of Korea’s contributions over the past decade to the International Food Safety Authorities Network (INFOSAN), where the MFDS has played a leading role in strengthening international cooperation on food-safety emergencies.   As a collaborating center, the MFDS will work with the WHO to provide education and training for INFOSAN member countries, offer technical support such as developing Food Safety Emergency Response (FSER) plans, and support global and regional meetings aimed at enhancing cooperation and networking among member states.   The MFDS expects the designation to bolster Korea’s international standing by highlighting the country’s food-safety systems and crisis-response capabilities. It also anticipates strengthened global confidence in the safety of K-Food.   MFDS Commissioner Oh Yu-kyung stated that the designation signifies meaningful international recognition of Korea’s food-safety emergency management system. “Building on this achievement, we will continue to position Korea as a global leader in responding to food-safety crises,” she said.     The MFDS added that it will continue to swiftly identify food-related risks at home and abroad, enhance its crisis-response capabilities to safeguard public health, and work to further elevate Korea’s global reputation in food-safety incident response.    

• President Lee Hosts Informal Dialogue with Invited Countries at APEC Summit

    President Lee Jae-myung hosted the first session of the 2025 APEC Summit on Friday morning, titled “Informal Dialogue with Invited Countries.”   Prior to the meeting, individual greetings with APEC member leaders began around 9:20 A.M., starting with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva and continuing through to Chinese President Xi Jinping.   Mexican Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard conveyed President Claudia Sheinbaum’s regrets for being unable to attend the summit due to a national emergency caused by severe flooding in Mexico. President Lee responded that he looks forward to meeting President Sheinbaum in the future.   During his conversation with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, President Lee asked about his visit to Hanwha Ocean’s Geoje Shipyard. Prime Minister Carney replied that both the helicopter provided by Korea and the shipyard itself were highly impressive.   When President Xi Jinping, the last leader to arrive, met with President Lee, the two exchanged warm greetings. President Xi remarked that he had heard Gyeongju was a city with a long history and shared his impression that it was a beautiful and remarkable place.   Ahead of the APEC Summit, President Lee sent President Xi a gift of freshly made Hwangnam-ppang—a traditional pastry from Gyeongju—wrapped in a traditional Korean cloth, along with a message expressing his sincere welcome and hope that the Chinese leader would enjoy the taste of Gyeongju. On Friday morning, an additional 200 boxes of Hwangnam-ppang were sent to the Chinese delegation.     During their meeting, President Xi expressed his gratitude, saying that he enjoyed the Hwangnam-ppang very much. President Lee then instructed the Minister of Foreign Affairs to extend the same gesture by sending the Gyeongju delicacy to all APEC member delegations.

• Honoring the Sacrifices of our Veterans: 76th Memorial

    Participating in the 76th anniversary of the Korean War as a Leaders Times youth reporter affords an opportunity to reflect upon past courage and sacrifice in Korea and on our ongoing obligations for the future. On June 25, 2026, a ceremony took place in Busan to honor the 76th anniversary of the Korean War. Many people attended the event like families of the veterans, military leaders, civilians even the university students in Busan and expressed their gratitude to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation and remembered the effects of the war. At the ceremony, there were speeches commemorating the anniversary of the war, there was a performance reminiscent of the song of the Korean War. These events illustrate that the Korean War is not history. It is a part of present day modern Korean society. The importance of Busan to Korean War history is immense. Thousands of refugees traveled through Busan during the Korean War, and the city served an integral role in protecting South Korea during the war. Thus, the significance of the events that occurred in Busan serve as meaningful means by which to reflect on the Korean War. The younger generation has an important role to play in recalling the history of the Korean War. While we generally take our freedom and peace for granted in our daily lives, participation in events such as these serve to remind the younger generation of those freedoms and peace, of all the fallen in that conflict and the sacrifices made for them, and of their continuing duty to pass the history of the Korean War along to future generations. For many students and young adults, the event is more than a ceremony; it provides an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of peace and strengthens their commitment to remember history. Although it has been more than sixty years since the Korean War ended, the lessons learned are still current today. The trip to Busan enabled me to directly see the significance of the Korean War as a historical event, rather than simply a textbook example. By being part of a community of people who honor the sacrifices of others, I am reminded that the peace which we enjoy today did not come freely and that we must continue to tell this story to future generations.

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  2026-06-27

• After visiting Cambodia to volunteer as a reporting journalist for Leaderstime, the effort to solve education inequality continued.

      Observing the Cambodian students’ passion for studying, even in such harsh conditions, we Leaderstimes reporters have visited, established a library, and filled the shelves with donated books, collected in both Korea and the U.S. This project aimed to give an opportunity for local students of all ages from elementary school to high school, who struggle to study within their underfunded environment. Even in unimaginable conditions compared to the average student in Korea or the U.S., I saw more passion and drive to learn from the Cambodian students. Thus, we have created our initiative with Angel’s for the Journey and Lumen Education to create a sustainable educational infrastructure for Cambodian students.   Initially, the project was initiated by designing and publishing books in Khmer, Korean, and English. We worked with the same local students, those in high school who could translate the English content into Khmer. Simultaneously, books were collected through donations. Expanding internationally, in high schools located in Saint Louis, Missouri and Layton, Utah, students collected books with the help of the school. Teachers, classmates, and families of the students donated books to support the education of the Cambodian students and the building of the libraries. From Thomas Jefferson School, 89 books were gathered and packed to be sent to Cambodia. From Utah, 74 books were gathered. Little by little, the books that were collected numbered in the hundreds and were donated to meet the needs of the libraries built in 3 locations throughout Siem Reap.   These libraries now stand to help and support the education of young Cambodian students, and the effect of these libraries is already spreading. A 12th grade student in Cambodia, Sokchanra Hun, to whom we have donated funds and study materials such as used phones and laptops on top of the books and novels, became inspired by our mission, passionately preparing to study abroad to create an impact for others herself: our contributions led her to study Psychology at Reed College starting this fall.   In the future, our contributions hope to continue to grant the opportunity for those in need to study what they want without suffering from a lack of resources. Driven causes with direct actions, like ours, toward resolving educational inequality are what is required for every voice to be heard.     Hyeonseok Rho, Thomas Jefferson School in St. Louis, Missouri.

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  2026-06-26

• MOFA Holds Emergency Review Meeting on Safety of Korean Nationals Following U.S. Airstrikes on Venezuela

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) convened a joint headquarters–overseas mission situation review meeting on the afternoon of January 3, chaired by Second Vice Minister Kim Jina, to assess the local situation and safety measures for Korean nationals following the U.S. airstrikes on Venezuela carried out in the early hours of the same day.   Vice Minister Kim noted that no cases of damage involving the approximately 70 Korean nationals currently residing in Venezuela have been reported to date. However, given the possibility that the local situation could further deteriorate, she urged all relevant offices to maintain a high level of readiness to ensure the continued safety of Korean nationals. She particularly emphasized that, in line with the President’s instructions, the protection of overseas Koreans must be carried out thoroughly. She also stressed that evacuation or withdrawal of nationals may become necessary depending on developments on the ground, and called for related contingency plans to be meticulously prepared and swiftly implemented when required.   Chung Han-wook, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim at the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Venezuela, said the embassy is continuously monitoring the safety situation of Korean nationals in the country and is making every effort to protect them. He added that comprehensive preparations are also underway for overseas national protection measures in the event of a further deterioration in the local situation.   MOFA stated that it will continue to closely monitor developments in Venezuela and take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of Korean nationals.

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  2026-01-08

• Korea and Mongolia Launch Critical Minerals Cooperation Center in Ulaanbaatar

  The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE) announced that the Korea–Mongolia Critical Minerals Cooperation Center will officially open on December 12 at the Mongolian University of Science and Technology in Ulaanbaatar. The center will be established and operated as part of a grant-based Official Development Assistance (ODA) project led by MOTIE, with approximately KRW 9.8 billion allocated for the period from 2023 to 2027. The opening ceremony is expected to draw around 150 participants, including officials from Mongolia’s Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, the Mineral Resources and Petroleum Authority, and the Institute of Geology, as well as representatives from MOTIE, the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT), and the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM).   Since 2023, MOTIE has promoted the establishment and operation of Critical Minerals Cooperation Centers using ODA programs to strengthen international cooperation on key mineral supply chains. The Mongolia center will be the first to open among five centers currently being pursued in Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Indonesia, and Mongolia.   The Korea–Mongolia Critical Minerals Cooperation Center will be jointly operated by KIGAM and the Mongolian Institute of Geology. Its activities will focus on analyzing critical minerals found in Mongolia, including tungsten, molybdenum, and lithium, while providing technical training in mineral processing and refining. Through these efforts, the center aims to help add value to Mongolia’s critical mineral resources and support their transition into production.   MOTIE assessed that the launch of the center has laid an important foundation for bilateral cooperation in the field of critical minerals. The ministry stated that it will continue to support the center’s operations so that it can contribute to the development of Mongolia’s critical minerals industry while also enhancing the long-term stability of Korea’s critical mineral supply chains.  

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  2025-12-26

• President Lee Proposes Future-Oriented AI and Clean Energy Partnership During UAEVisit

  During his state visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), President Lee Jae-myung on the 19thcalled for Korea and the UAE to jointly create future growth engines through AI-centered advanced industrial cooperation. He further proposed deepening collaboration in clean energy and defense to secure momentum for the two countries to grow into global leaders.   President Lee made the remarks at the Korea–UAE Business Roundtable held at a hotel in Abu Dhabi, emphasizing the need to expand exchanges between the governments and companies of both nations.   In his keynote address, President Lee highlighted that Korea and the UAE have evolved into true brother nations and partners, Rafiq, through cooperation such as the construction of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant and the deployment of the Akh Unit. He underscored that Korea is the UAE’s optimal partner as it pursues its ambitious goal of becoming the world’s top nation by 2071. In Arabic, Rafiq refers to a companion who journeys together over a long path.   President Lee outlined three strategic directions for a future-oriented partnership designed to guide bilateral cooperation over the next century. He stressed the creation of new growth engines through accelerated collaboration in AI and advanced industries, the strengthening of momentum through deeper cooperation in clean energy and defense, and the expansion of people-to-people and cultural ties through enhanced soft cooperation.   On AI collaboration, President Lee said the visit had upgraded the strategic partnership in industry and advanced technology, paving the way for accelerated cooperation in cutting-edge fields ranging from AI data centers to biotechnology. He noted that Korea’s semiconductor technologies, including HBM, along with its EPC capabilities, position it as the UAE’s most reliable partner as the country seeks to establish itself as a global AI hub by 2031.   Turning to clean energy and defense cooperation, President Lee emphasized that combining the UAE’s substantial solar power potential with Korea’s advanced battery technology would significantly contribute to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and fostering new eco-friendly industries. He added that Korea could further support the development of the UAE’s nuclear power sector by building local facilities related to nuclear fuel and electricity, expressing hope for mutually beneficial cooperation.   In closing, President Lee observed that the two countries share similarities in their security environments and geopolitical contexts, as well as a strong focus on people. He concluded that if Korea and the UAE complement each other in advanced industries and culture while expanding exchanges between leaders and citizens, they can achieve true joint prosperity as brother nations.

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  2025-11-28

• Korea and Philippines Hold 4th Maritime Dialogue in Manila

    The 4th Korea–Philippines Maritime Dialogue convened in Manila on November 21, co-chaired by Lee Dong-gi, Director-General for ASEAN Affairs at the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Emmanuel Donato K. Guzman, Assistant Secretary for Maritime Affairs at the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs. The meeting brought together roughly 40 officials from the Korea Coast Guard, Ministry of National Defense, and Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, as well as representatives from the Philippine Department of National Defense, National Coast Watch Center, and National Security Council. Both sides highlighted the dialogue’s role as a model platform for cooperation between two countries with high maritime dependence. The meeting reviewed ways to deepen collaboration in maritime security and safety, the maritime economy, and the marine environment. Participants also exchanged updates on policy initiatives, including blue carbon programs, and discussed strengthening cooperation at bilateral and multilateral levels. During the session on maritime security and safety, the Korean side presented case studies on marine pollution response and countermeasures against illegal fishing. Korea also noted that an MOU is under preparation between the Korea Coast Guard and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency to bolster joint responses to transnational crimes such as maritime drug trafficking. Once established, the MOU is expected to enhance information sharing and interdiction efforts. Both sides further expressed support for expanding joint humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercises, and agreed on the need to revitalize shipbuilding and maritime cooperation in Subic Bay. In the session on the maritime economy and environment, the Korean delegation introduced the “Korea Blue Action Plan” and outlined its blue carbon strategy, which includes strengthening the ocean’s carbon sequestration capacity, improving resilience to climate-related disasters, expanding private-sector participation in blue carbon initiatives, and accelerating certification of new blue carbon projects. Korea also sought the Philippines’ support for its bid to host the 2028 UN Ocean Conference. In addition, the two sides agreed to step up cooperation to ensure the successful conclusion next year of KOICA’s marine litter management capacity-building project in Manila Bay. The two countries reaffirmed their commitment to close coordination in shaping international maritime norms, including at the International Maritime Organization. The Philippine side noted that it will prioritize maritime cooperation during its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2026. Korea expressed strong support for the Philippines’ upcoming chairmanship and pledged to work closely with ASEAN to strengthen regional maritime security capabilities. The two sides also exchanged views on developments in the South China Sea, including ongoing negotiations on the Code of Conduct. The meeting concluded with an agreement to hold the 5th Korea–Philippines Maritime Dialogue in Korea next year.

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  2025-11-25

• President Lee Hosts Informal Dialogue with Invited Countries at APEC Summit

    President Lee Jae-myung hosted the first session of the 2025 APEC Summit on Friday morning, titled “Informal Dialogue with Invited Countries.”   Prior to the meeting, individual greetings with APEC member leaders began around 9:20 A.M., starting with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva and continuing through to Chinese President Xi Jinping.   Mexican Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard conveyed President Claudia Sheinbaum’s regrets for being unable to attend the summit due to a national emergency caused by severe flooding in Mexico. President Lee responded that he looks forward to meeting President Sheinbaum in the future.   During his conversation with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, President Lee asked about his visit to Hanwha Ocean’s Geoje Shipyard. Prime Minister Carney replied that both the helicopter provided by Korea and the shipyard itself were highly impressive.   When President Xi Jinping, the last leader to arrive, met with President Lee, the two exchanged warm greetings. President Xi remarked that he had heard Gyeongju was a city with a long history and shared his impression that it was a beautiful and remarkable place.   Ahead of the APEC Summit, President Lee sent President Xi a gift of freshly made Hwangnam-ppang—a traditional pastry from Gyeongju—wrapped in a traditional Korean cloth, along with a message expressing his sincere welcome and hope that the Chinese leader would enjoy the taste of Gyeongju. On Friday morning, an additional 200 boxes of Hwangnam-ppang were sent to the Chinese delegation.     During their meeting, President Xi expressed his gratitude, saying that he enjoyed the Hwangnam-ppang very much. President Lee then instructed the Minister of Foreign Affairs to extend the same gesture by sending the Gyeongju delicacy to all APEC member delegations.

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  2025-11-03

• 9월 하반기 필리핀 한달 생활기 보내기 - 164회

    9월 하반기 필리핀 코필즈 친구 클럽회원님들의 기사, 가치 봉사로 전달 하였습니다 이름 : 지수  사이에서 자라고 있음.현재 지수 엄마는 걷지를 못하는 어머님이 일하셨는데   아래 사진은 봉사에 참가한 명단입니다  

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  2025-09-29

• 9월 상반기 필리핀 한달 생활기 보내기 - 163회

    9월 상반기 필리핀 코필즈 친구 클럽회원님들의 기사, 가치 봉사로 전달 하였습니다 하나의 꿈은비행기 승무원이고,현재 15살. 중 2( 현지에서는 고2)이름: Hahna causaren.환경: 한참 자라고 군것질도 한달 용돈이 학교가는 차비 말고는    

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  2025-09-29

• Ministry of Education cultivates the key to national competitiveness, talented people in AI, with the Brain Korea (BK) 21

    The Ministry of Education and National Research Foundation of Korea(Administer: Wonhwa Hong) said that they have made a preliminary decision to add foureducational research groups to the Brain Korea (BK) 21 Four Project for FosteringInnovative Talents, in the AI section.   The BK 21 Four Project for Fostering Innovative Talents (2020-2027) is a program thatfosters research personnel in the new industry, which can lead to innovation growth. Ascurrent intelligent software (chatbots and automated translation), which infuencesbusiness in language, hospital, transportation, and fnance, is developing rapidly, employingAI talent is accelerating. Therefore, this decision in the AI research group is supported totake assertive action on cultivating talent with the 2025 second supplementary budget(1,2860000 won).   According to the preliminary results, preferred research groups are • (Ewha Woman’sUniversity) ‘High-reliability, High-efciency AI education and Research Group,’ • (HanyangUniversity ERICA) ‘Jisan Academic Research Centered Physical AI Research Group,’ •(Changwon National University), ‘DNA2 and AI Convergence Education Research Group,’ •(Yeungnam university) ‘ICT AI Convergence Innovation Talent Training and ResearchGroup.’ These groups were selected by professionals with education and researchcapabilities, as well as an industry cooperation system, among 17 groups that applied toJuly’s contest.   The Ministry of Education will announce the fnal result in October after confrming thepreliminary college and an appeal (9.24~10.10). Thus, the Education and Research groupsin the AI section of the BK 21 Four Project for Fostering Innovative Talents became a totalof 17 groups. Seventeen Research groups will be supported with less than 13. 7 billion woneach year (individual research groups will get 0.81 billion won each year) until 2027.   The fnal preferred research groups will be promoted to education about AI (Developmentand Organization of Cooperative Programs, invitation of distinguished scholars from abroad,international collaborative research, and career support) with the use of funds to providescholarships and personal expenses.Director of Talent Policy Eunhee Choi said, “Because AI is the technology that changesindustry and daily lives, high-quality professionals are the main key to nationalcompetitiveness.” She added, “We will strengthen Korea as the leader of the AI generation,cultivating advanced-level talents through the BK 21 Four Project.” 

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  2025-09-26

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• The Invisible Difference: Why ADHD and Intellectual Disabilities Must Be Understood Correctly

    Volunteer work at a community welfare center for people with disabilities taught me an important lesson as a Leadertimes Youth Journalist: ADHD and intellectual disabilities should not be treated as the same condition.   Although both can affect school life and daily activities, their causes, characteristics, and support needs are clearly different. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect attention, impulse control, time management, and the ability to complete tasks. Students with ADHD do not struggle because they have low intelligence. Rather, they may find it difficult to stay focused, control impulses, organize their time, or plan tasks effectively.   For these students, short and clear instructions, step-by-step assignments, scheduling support, and a quiet learning environment can be helpful. These forms of support allow students with ADHD to manage their attention and complete their work more successfully.   Intellectual disabilities, on the other hand, are developmental disabilities that affect intellectual functioning and daily living skills. People with intellectual disabilities may need more time, repeated explanations, visual materials, and practical guidance to understand and apply new information.   During my visit to the welfare center, I observed a class in which participants practiced simple and repetitive activities, such as inserting wire rings into plastic pieces to make items used by people with disabilities. I helped support the class by assisting participants when they faced difficulties and by helping the activity run smoothly.   I also interviewed a child psychotherapist about support methods for children with various intellectual disabilities. He explained that some participants were able to join activities more comfortably when instructions were demonstrated directly or repeated several times.   “The most important part of disability support is not only looking at the diagnosis, but also understanding how each individual learns and communicates,” he said.   His words show that even people with the same diagnosis may need different kinds of support. This is especially important in schools. Students with ADHD may need a structured environment that helps them focus and manage themselves. Students with intellectual disabilities may need repeated learning, simple explanations, visual materials, and life-based practical support.   In both cases, it is wrong to simply say that a student is “not trying hard enough.” ADHD and intellectual disabilities are different conditions, but both are often misunderstood.   Before judging students who cannot focus or who learn more slowly, schools and communities should first ask what kind of support each student needs. My volunteer experience at the community welfare center showed me that disability should be understood not only as a diagnosis, but also as a matter of real-life support.   When ADHD and intellectual disabilities are understood correctly, students and community members can better show their abilities and participate more fully in society.

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  2026-07-08

• Honoring the Sacrifices of our Veterans: 76th Memorial

    Participating in the 76th anniversary of the Korean War as a Leaders Times youth reporter affords an opportunity to reflect upon past courage and sacrifice in Korea and on our ongoing obligations for the future. On June 25, 2026, a ceremony took place in Busan to honor the 76th anniversary of the Korean War. Many people attended the event like families of the veterans, military leaders, civilians even the university students in Busan and expressed their gratitude to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation and remembered the effects of the war. At the ceremony, there were speeches commemorating the anniversary of the war, there was a performance reminiscent of the song of the Korean War. These events illustrate that the Korean War is not history. It is a part of present day modern Korean society. The importance of Busan to Korean War history is immense. Thousands of refugees traveled through Busan during the Korean War, and the city served an integral role in protecting South Korea during the war. Thus, the significance of the events that occurred in Busan serve as meaningful means by which to reflect on the Korean War. The younger generation has an important role to play in recalling the history of the Korean War. While we generally take our freedom and peace for granted in our daily lives, participation in events such as these serve to remind the younger generation of those freedoms and peace, of all the fallen in that conflict and the sacrifices made for them, and of their continuing duty to pass the history of the Korean War along to future generations. For many students and young adults, the event is more than a ceremony; it provides an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of peace and strengthens their commitment to remember history. Although it has been more than sixty years since the Korean War ended, the lessons learned are still current today. The trip to Busan enabled me to directly see the significance of the Korean War as a historical event, rather than simply a textbook example. By being part of a community of people who honor the sacrifices of others, I am reminded that the peace which we enjoy today did not come freely and that we must continue to tell this story to future generations.

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  2026-06-27

• After visiting Cambodia to volunteer as a reporting journalist for Leaderstime, the effort to solve education inequality continued.

      Observing the Cambodian students’ passion for studying, even in such harsh conditions, we Leaderstimes reporters have visited, established a library, and filled the shelves with donated books, collected in both Korea and the U.S. This project aimed to give an opportunity for local students of all ages from elementary school to high school, who struggle to study within their underfunded environment. Even in unimaginable conditions compared to the average student in Korea or the U.S., I saw more passion and drive to learn from the Cambodian students. Thus, we have created our initiative with Angel’s for the Journey and Lumen Education to create a sustainable educational infrastructure for Cambodian students.   Initially, the project was initiated by designing and publishing books in Khmer, Korean, and English. We worked with the same local students, those in high school who could translate the English content into Khmer. Simultaneously, books were collected through donations. Expanding internationally, in high schools located in Saint Louis, Missouri and Layton, Utah, students collected books with the help of the school. Teachers, classmates, and families of the students donated books to support the education of the Cambodian students and the building of the libraries. From Thomas Jefferson School, 89 books were gathered and packed to be sent to Cambodia. From Utah, 74 books were gathered. Little by little, the books that were collected numbered in the hundreds and were donated to meet the needs of the libraries built in 3 locations throughout Siem Reap.   These libraries now stand to help and support the education of young Cambodian students, and the effect of these libraries is already spreading. A 12th grade student in Cambodia, Sokchanra Hun, to whom we have donated funds and study materials such as used phones and laptops on top of the books and novels, became inspired by our mission, passionately preparing to study abroad to create an impact for others herself: our contributions led her to study Psychology at Reed College starting this fall.   In the future, our contributions hope to continue to grant the opportunity for those in need to study what they want without suffering from a lack of resources. Driven causes with direct actions, like ours, toward resolving educational inequality are what is required for every voice to be heard.     Hyeonseok Rho, Thomas Jefferson School in St. Louis, Missouri.

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  2026-06-26

• Korea-France Elevate Ties to ‘Global Strategic Partnership’ at Summit Marking 140 Years of Diplomacy

    President Lee Jae-myung held a summit with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Blue House on April 3, where the two leaders discussed ways to advance bilateral relations recently elevated to a “Global Strategic Partnership,” as well as key regional and international issues.   The meeting coincided with the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and France. President Lee welcomed President Macron’s first visit to Korea since taking office, noting its significance as the first state visit by a European leader since the launch of Korea’s new administration. President Macron described the trip as especially meaningful, marking his first visit to Korea in 11 years as French president.   The two leaders exchanged views on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and its broader implications, agreeing on the urgent need to restore stability and peace in the region. They also shared policy experiences and strategies aimed at minimizing economic disruptions and protecting livelihoods. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening energy security through expanded cooperation in nuclear energy and offshore wind power, as well as ensuring safe maritime transport routes in the Strait of Hormuz.   The summit also served as an opportunity to assess the progress of bilateral relations since the establishment of a “Comprehensive Partnership for the 21st Century” in 2004. The leaders highlighted the elevation of ties to a strategic level after 22 years and agreed to further deepen cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including defense and security, trade and investment, and advanced strategic industries such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum technology, space, and nuclear energy. Cultural and people-to-people exchanges were also identified as key areas for expansion.     On the occasion of the summit, the two countries revised three agreements and signed 11 memoranda of understanding and letters of intent, laying the institutional groundwork for future cooperation. The leaders also adopted a joint statement outlining the direction of bilateral relations moving forward.

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  2026-04-11

• Korea National Arboretum, AFoCO Sign MOU to Expand Forest Biodiversity Cooperation

    The Korea National Arboretum of the Korea Forest Service announced on March 13 that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Asian Forest Cooperation Organization (AFoCO) to strengthen forest biodiversity conservation and expand international cooperation.   The agreement follows the expiration of a previous MOU signed in 2021 and is intended to sustain and broaden the existing partnership. Under the renewed framework, the two institutions will collaborate across a range of areas, including forest biodiversity conservation and joint research, the exchange of expertise and research data, cooperation in international conferences and seminars, and network-building activities. The partnership will also promote biodiversity conservation efforts and public awareness through public-private cooperation.   Notably, the new agreement introduces initiatives aimed at raising awareness of biodiversity conservation through public-private partnerships, with plans to expand programs involving diverse stakeholders such as corporations and institutions. Given that many AFoCO member countries operate arboretums and botanical gardens, collaboration centered on these institutions is expected to play a key role in addressing both climate change and the global biodiversity crisis.   The Korea National Arboretum has also been advancing international cooperation through its partnership with Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI). Last year, the two organizations jointly proclaimed the International Day of Botanic Garden Education, an initiative designed to expand global networks among arboretumsand botanical gardens while strengthening responses to the climate crisis. This year, Brunei and Indonesia—both AFoCO member states—are expected to participate in the observance on June 12, further enhancing international collaboration based on arboretumsand botanical gardens.   Lim Young-seok, Director of the Korea National Arboretum, said the agreement will serve as an opportunity to deepen cooperation with AFoCO and expand global partnerships. He added that these efforts will contribute not only to forest biodiversity conservation but also to elevating the international standing and role of the national arboretum.

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  2026-04-06

• APEC 2026 SOM1 and Related Meetings Held in Guangzhou

      The First Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM1) of the 2026 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum and its related meetings were held in Guangzhou from February 1 to 10. The Korean government delegation, led by Park Jong-han, Deputy Minister for Economic Diplomacy and Coordination at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, participated in the Senior Officials’ Meeting as well as the four main committees: the Committee on Trade and Investment (CTI), the Steering Committee on Economic and Technical Cooperation (SCE), the Economic Committee (EC), and the Budget and Management Committee (BMC). The delegation took part in discussions aimed at delivering substantive outcomes for APEC 2026. At the meeting, the Korean delegation, as the previous year’s host economy, expressed its support for a successful APEC 2026 and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the key outcomes of the 2025 Leaders’ Meeting are faithfully carried forward and further developed throughout the 2026 APEC process. China presented the theme and priority areas for APEC 2026 as “Building an Asia-Pacific Community to Prosper Together: Openness, Innovation, Cooperation,” and outlined major deliverables under each priority area. It also announced plans to host more than ten sectoral ministerial meetings and high-level dialogues, including meetings of Ministers Responsible for Trade, Digital and AI Ministers, and Transport Ministers. In addition, China introduced its plan to organize various high-level forums on digitalization and innovation during a “Digital Week.” As discussions at the sectoral ministerial meetings are expected to culminate in outcomes at the Leaders’ Meeting in November, the Korean government plans to actively engage in the process to ensure that the key achievements of the 2025 Leaders’ Meeting are fully reflected throughout this year’s APEC agenda. On the sidelines of the meeting, Deputy Minister Park held bilateral consultations with major members, including China, Japan, Canada, and Vietnam. The discussions covered China’s priorities and key deliverables for APEC 2026, follow-up measures to the previous year’s Leaders’ Meeting hosted by Korea, and the review and revision of the Aotearoa Plan of Action. Meanwhile, as the previous host economy, Korea has assumed the chairmanship of the Budget and Management Committee (BMC), which oversees and manages APEC’s budget this year. Lee Ji-yoon, Director-General for International Economic Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, chaired the first BMC meeting on February 9. Beginning with this first Senior Officials’ Meeting, APEC members will continue consultations centered on the theme and priority areas presented by China, with a view to advancing sustainable economic growth and regional economic integration in the Asia-Pacific region ahead of the Leaders’ Meeting scheduled for November 18–19.  

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  2026-02-25

• ROK–NATO Hold 15th Policy Consultation in Brussels

    The 15th ROK–NATO Policy Consultation was held in Brussels on January 15, with senior officials from both sides meeting to exchange views on the international security environment and discuss ways to further strengthen the ROK–NATO partnership.   The meeting was co-chaired by Yoon Jong-kwon, Ambassador for International Cyber Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, and Boris Ruge, NATO Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs and Security Policy. The two sides shared assessments of current global security challenges and explored avenues for enhancing bilateral cooperation.   Both sides agreed that, amid growing geopolitical uncertainty driven by factors such as U.S.–China competition and the war in Ukraine, cooperation among like-minded partners has become more important than ever in responding to complex and overlapping crises. They emphasized the need for close ROK–NATO coordination to address shared security threats, noting the increasing interconnectedness between security in Europe and the Indo-Pacific region.   The participants also noted that over the past four years, the ROK–NATO relationship has experienced remarkable growth through high-level exchanges, including the Republic of Korea’s participation in NATO summits and ministerial meetings. In this context, they welcomed the launch of the ROK–NATO Defense Industry Consultative Body last year, which has further expanded the scope of cooperation between the two sides.   Looking ahead, both sides reaffirmed the significant potential for deepening ROK–NATO cooperation across a wide range of areas, including cybersecurity, defense industry cooperation, advanced technologies, information sharing, and space security. They agreed to continue efforts to further strengthen and institutionalize practical cooperation going forward.

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  2026-01-19

• MOFA Holds Emergency Review Meeting on Safety of Korean Nationals Following U.S. Airstrikes on Venezuela

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) convened a joint headquarters–overseas mission situation review meeting on the afternoon of January 3, chaired by Second Vice Minister Kim Jina, to assess the local situation and safety measures for Korean nationals following the U.S. airstrikes on Venezuela carried out in the early hours of the same day.   Vice Minister Kim noted that no cases of damage involving the approximately 70 Korean nationals currently residing in Venezuela have been reported to date. However, given the possibility that the local situation could further deteriorate, she urged all relevant offices to maintain a high level of readiness to ensure the continued safety of Korean nationals. She particularly emphasized that, in line with the President’s instructions, the protection of overseas Koreans must be carried out thoroughly. She also stressed that evacuation or withdrawal of nationals may become necessary depending on developments on the ground, and called for related contingency plans to be meticulously prepared and swiftly implemented when required.   Chung Han-wook, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim at the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Venezuela, said the embassy is continuously monitoring the safety situation of Korean nationals in the country and is making every effort to protect them. He added that comprehensive preparations are also underway for overseas national protection measures in the event of a further deterioration in the local situation.   MOFA stated that it will continue to closely monitor developments in Venezuela and take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of Korean nationals.

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  2026-01-08

• Korea and Mongolia Launch Critical Minerals Cooperation Center in Ulaanbaatar

  The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE) announced that the Korea–Mongolia Critical Minerals Cooperation Center will officially open on December 12 at the Mongolian University of Science and Technology in Ulaanbaatar. The center will be established and operated as part of a grant-based Official Development Assistance (ODA) project led by MOTIE, with approximately KRW 9.8 billion allocated for the period from 2023 to 2027. The opening ceremony is expected to draw around 150 participants, including officials from Mongolia’s Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, the Mineral Resources and Petroleum Authority, and the Institute of Geology, as well as representatives from MOTIE, the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT), and the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM).   Since 2023, MOTIE has promoted the establishment and operation of Critical Minerals Cooperation Centers using ODA programs to strengthen international cooperation on key mineral supply chains. The Mongolia center will be the first to open among five centers currently being pursued in Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Indonesia, and Mongolia.   The Korea–Mongolia Critical Minerals Cooperation Center will be jointly operated by KIGAM and the Mongolian Institute of Geology. Its activities will focus on analyzing critical minerals found in Mongolia, including tungsten, molybdenum, and lithium, while providing technical training in mineral processing and refining. Through these efforts, the center aims to help add value to Mongolia’s critical mineral resources and support their transition into production.   MOTIE assessed that the launch of the center has laid an important foundation for bilateral cooperation in the field of critical minerals. The ministry stated that it will continue to support the center’s operations so that it can contribute to the development of Mongolia’s critical minerals industry while also enhancing the long-term stability of Korea’s critical mineral supply chains.  

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  2025-12-26

• Korea Designated as WHO Collaborating Centre for Food Safety Emergency Response

  The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) announced that it will hold a plaque-unveiling ceremony on November 27 at the first floor of its headquarters to mark the World Health Organization’s (WHO) designation of the MFDS as a WHO Collaborating Centre for Emergency Preparedness and Response in Food Safety.   The designation is the first of its kind globally in the field of food-safety emergency response. It reflects the WHO’s recognition of Korea’s contributions over the past decade to the International Food Safety Authorities Network (INFOSAN), where the MFDS has played a leading role in strengthening international cooperation on food-safety emergencies.   As a collaborating center, the MFDS will work with the WHO to provide education and training for INFOSAN member countries, offer technical support such as developing Food Safety Emergency Response (FSER) plans, and support global and regional meetings aimed at enhancing cooperation and networking among member states.   The MFDS expects the designation to bolster Korea’s international standing by highlighting the country’s food-safety systems and crisis-response capabilities. It also anticipates strengthened global confidence in the safety of K-Food.   MFDS Commissioner Oh Yu-kyung stated that the designation signifies meaningful international recognition of Korea’s food-safety emergency management system. “Building on this achievement, we will continue to position Korea as a global leader in responding to food-safety crises,” she said.     The MFDS added that it will continue to swiftly identify food-related risks at home and abroad, enhance its crisis-response capabilities to safeguard public health, and work to further elevate Korea’s global reputation in food-safety incident response.    

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  2025-12-12