• 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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• Korea Announces 2024 Humanitarian Aid Strategy at UN Financing for Development Conference in Seville

    As a responsible donor within the international community, the Korean government has steadily expanded its collaboration with major international organizations to enhance global capacity to respond to humanitarian crises. In 2024, Korea is implementing a significant structural reform of its aid programs, moving away from support centered on numerous small-scale projects. Instead, it has adopted an integrated strategy that groups high-need countries and regions—those facing urgent humanitarian challenges or receiving concentrated international attention—by thematic area, and advances coordinated efforts with key partner organizations.    This shift allows Korea to leverage a budget comparable to previous years in a far more strategic manner, maximizing both the effectiveness and visibility of its contributions. Moreover, the approach strengthens Korea’s influence within the international development cooperation landscape, particularly in light of evolving global dynamics.    The three key agencies selected for strategic collaboration—UNDP, UNICEF, and WFP—each bring specialized expertise in emergency relief, child and public health, and food security, respectively. Through partnerships with these agencies, the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs will focus its humanitarian efforts on regions experiencing protracted conflicts, chronic hunger, and acute humanitarian needs. Projects will be prioritized in the Middle East (USD 65 million), Asia (USD 40 million), and Africa (USD 22 million).    To enhance the global visibility of its humanitarian assistance, the Korean government has consolidated its major initiatives under a single umbrella brand: “Republic of Korea’s 3R Humanitarian Assistance Initiatives.” In addition, separate sub-brands tailored to each agency have been developed, aligning Korea’s policy priorities with the agencies’ specialized mandates. These efforts aim to more effectively communicate Korea’s international contributions to the public and stakeholders.    During the meeting, Vice Minister Kim emphasized Korea’s commitment to making contributions that reflect its national capacity and growing international standing. She underscored the significance of Korea’s sustained support at a time when humanitarian needs are intensifying globally, while available funding remains insufficient. Highlighting Korea’s active role, she called on each organization to diligently implement the supported projects and to proactively share their results. She also urged the agencies to help expand opportunities for Korean nationals to participate in the work of international organizations.    In response, the agency representatives expressed deep appreciation for Korea’s timely contributions amid a challenging global development environment. They also conveyed strong expectations for the continued development of robust and mutually beneficial partnerships with Korea.    This strengthened collaboration between the Korean government and key UN agencies is expected to reinforce global solidarity and cooperation in addressing humanitarian crises around the world.

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  2025-07-18

• Park of Remembrance: The UNMCK

    The world’s only UN Memorial Park is located in Nam-gu, Busan. This is a cemetery built to honor soldiers who died in the Korean War as UN forces in 1950, and is the only memorial park officially managed by the UN.   On June 25th, 2025, a memorial ceremony was held at the park to commemorate the anniversary of the war and the UN soldiers who fought in the war. On this day, many visitors, including families of the deceased, participating countries, diplomats, and citizens, gathered at the park to pay tribute to the sacrifices of the soldiers and the stability of freedom and peace. These are the people who fought for the freedom of Korea in a foreign land and gave their lives.   The Korean War began with a surprise attack by North Korea on June 25th, 1950. With support from the Soviet Union, North Korea quickly advanced south, and the tide of the war was pushed back to the Nakdong River front. On September 15th of the same year, the Incheon Landing Operation was launched under the command of General Douglas MacArthur, the commander of the UN forces, and the tide of the war shifted. The UN forces recaptured Seoul and advanced to the vicinity of the Amnok River, also known as the Yalu River between the modern-day boundary between China and North Korea, but the intervention of the Chinese army brought the war to a stalemate near the 38th parallel.   In this war, a total of 16 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and the Netherlands, sent troops in the name of the United Nations. Of these, the United States lost about 36,516 soldiers, and many countries made large and small sacrifices. The numerous countries’ contribution to protect Korea in such dire and difficult situations is even deeper in that they sacrificed their lives in solidarity for freedom and peace.   The UN Memorial Cemetery in Busan was created to remember and honor these soldiers. During the Korean War, Busan was a safe area that was not occupied, so it was selected as the site of the cemetery. Currently, about 2,300 soldiers are safely buried here, and there are various facilities such as memorial halls and memorial monuments along with national sections. The sacrifices of the UN soldiers are a very precious place that is the first step toward a better life for Korea.

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  2025-07-18

• Into the world of writer Ahn Chung-guk

      We visited a place where the artist Chungguk Ahn from North Korea held an exhibition, titled “Line-Standing at the Source and the Boundary.” He defected to South Korea at the age of 14, and upon arrival, he enrolled in school. The students who studied at that school kept bullying and talking to him to say something in a North Korean accent, making him feel isolated. He has been drawing since he was 10 years old, so after graduating from high school, he enrolled at Hongik University College of Fine Arts. Artist Ahn Chung-guk primarily presents abstract works, and his pieces often explore questions about his life experiences, memories, and identity. In the past, An Chung-guk did not paint many pictures using color, but recently, he is said to be trying to express his emotions more using color.   He said that when someone sees his work for the first time, they could feel like almost all the arts were connected to the North Korean defection. However, he claims all of the art he made is not meant to be connected with defecting from North Korea, but rather it is meant to allow the audience to connect their own life to his work. Furthermore, he told us he purposefully uses cement in his work as cement on the canvas presents a unique phenomenon of falling apart naturally because some cement gets stuck while other parts fall. By placing a mesh, the cement adheres well to the canvas. So after listening to this, when looking at one of his works, I visualized my own life story in this work. One of the paintings looked like a field because I saw the sun, rice, and river in the abstract art. And there was a picture of a paper airplane there, which makes you feel like you want to fly and go somewhere.    Overall, his exhibition was really impressive, presenting an insightful experience. 

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  2025-07-11

• Talking through painting, Ahn Chung Guk

    On June 28th, 2025, artist Ahn Chung Guk’s solo exhibition took place in Seongsu, which he held for random people. The name of the exhibition was called “잇다/Line.” Anyone can enjoy his work from June 20th to July 6th, from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, but the exhibition is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.   Artist Ahn Chung Guk is a North Korean defector, who escaped from North Korea and is working as an artist. He graduated from Hongik University and majored in painting. The author was born in Eunsong County, North Hamgyong Province in 1995, defected from North Korea at the age of 14, and settled in South Korea.   Based on his memories from North Korea and his experiences in South Korea, he has developed his own artistic language. His works, which express points, lines, and planes using cement and acrylic, are particularly notable. From the exhibition, there were two paintings that really caught the audience’s eyes. The first painting has three paper planes drawn on the gray background with the stars. In the painting, the paper planes symbolize “freedom,” specifically how the process of flight allows one to freely travel and express one's existence. Also, the process of folding and shaping the paper plane further represents how lives are shaped and folded by our experiences, allowing the audience to relate to the piece. The second painting is especially special to me since it was drawn at the exhibition specifically for me after I joked about wanting to buy one of his paintings. He drew a paper plane in front of me with my face on canvas.   In conclusion, his mindset is admirable, trying to share his life journey and create pieces for people to not just try to interpret the painting’s definition but find their own lives in the paintings. That means it is not only about his story; it means everyone’s story can be a part of his work.  

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  2025-07-08

• UN Memorial Cemetery Honors Korean War Veterans

    On June 25th, 2025, the journalist group from LeadersTimes visited the United Nations memorial cemetery in Korea. This memorial space is for those who perished in the Korean war with many people visiting the site to commemorate and remember them. They are not only Korean, but also soldiers from other UN countries that participated in the Korean war.   When looking at the graves, it was sad and pitiful at first. However, because the soldiers are all from other countries and buried in unfamiliar land, that point was very touching. Every year on June 25th, the UNMCK always hosts an event in the memorial park. Attending the event, there was first a moment of silence for the deceased soldiers, which created the sincere and serious atmosphere where everyone felt gratitude toward the fallen soldiers.   After the event finished, our press group was able to meet a family member of a war veteran who also attended the event. While we just interviewed him for a few minutes, he explained how notes from his father explained how he passed away while being interrogated and tortured by North Korean forces. Before he finished his explanation, he lastly said “your generation must remember and has to be thankful for these soldiers' effort to protect our country.” Upon listening to him share this story, we walked around the memorial cemetery and soldiers' graves, where flowers were placed. Because he was a pastor, we prayed for the soldiers with him and thanked him for this time.   Where we went after the prayer was the memorial hall, and there were many pictures and sculptures. There are some things that impressed me the most. It has the poem that was written by Mr. D. Sumner to pay tribute to his twin brother, Mr. A. Sumner who is buried at the Cemetery, the poem’s content shows how much the elder brother misses his younger brother who died in war.  

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  2025-07-07

• Reflections from Hiroshima: Remembering and Commemorating the Victims

    On August 6th, 2024, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony was constructed to honor andcommemorate the victims of the atomic bombing.   Hiroshima was devastated on August 6th,1945, when the United States dropped two atomic bombs during World War II in response toJapan’s attack on Pearl Harbor and adamantly refusing to surrender.   The bombing obliteratedmuch of the city, claiming countless lives and demolishing decades of progress and cultural heritage.   The ceremony began early in the morning, around 8 a.m., with people gathering to offer flowersand observe a moment of silence in honor of the victims.   The atmosphere was somber, withmany attendees visibly mourning the loss of their loved ones.   Even though Japanese people were notsole victims:Since it is undeniable that the serial events leading to it were also rooted in Japan’s prior aggressionincluding the attack on Pearl Harbor, it was clear that most of the victims were normal citizens, regardless of the direct war.   After the moment of silence and the floral tributes concluded, the tone of the event shifted.   Therewere traditional dances and musical performances to commemorate those who lost their lives.   This juxtaposition was poignant, but it also prompted reflection on the broader consequences ofJapan’s wartime ambitions.   The bombing impacted not only Japanese citizens but alsoAmericans and Koreans who were living in Japan at the time, all of whom became casualties ofJapan’s territorial aspirations during the war.   At the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony, people could have noticed the presence of heart-shaped stones dedicated to the memory of American and Korean victims, a reminder of theshared suffering and complex history underlying this tragic event.   The day left everybodycontemplating the intricate narratives of responsibility, loss, and remembrance tied to suchprofound historical events.   At night, people started to gather near the river to send lanterns, a symbolic message to thedeceased.     People use lotus lanterns to commemorate sacrificed people and to honor the souls ofthose who perished in the atomic bombing, reflect on the horrors of war, and pray for peace.

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  2025-07-06

• My Experience in Cambodia: Bridging Cultures through Education

    When I first stepped onto Cambodian soil this June, I didn’t expect the air to feel so cool. Just a day after a deadly border conflict with Thailand, Cambodia’s Prime Minister had severed electricity and internet lines from its neighbor, but the decision left regions like Siem Reap, already lacking in infrastructure, suddenly disconnected from the outside world. As monsoon season approached, the entire region felt suspended between political uncertainty and the everyday struggles of survival.   As a leader of LeadersTimes and a co-founder of Angels for Journey, I arrived in Siem Reap earlier than the rest of my group to help prepare for our support program. While waiting for the delayed flight carrying the rest of the team, I sat down with the local pastor and his wife, both South Korean missionaries who have lived and served in Cambodia for nearly a decade. In our conversation, I heard stories that don’t make headlines: stories are deeply influential like Cambodia’s $2,000 GNI per capita (15 times lower than Korea’s) or its deeply fractured education system, yet insignificant to major outlets. Children in Cambodia are, as the pastor’s wife said, “already grown by age 12.” It isn’t poetic exaggeration. In Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, I saw barefoot kids–some holding colorful scarves embroidered with elephants, others selling bracelets in the colors of their national flag–roaming the streets instead of sitting in classrooms. For many children, school is not a sanctuary. Teachers are underpaid at roughly $1,200 annually and often sell test answers or favor students whose parents can pay bribes. In classrooms where multiple ages are grouped together due to low enrollment and dropout rates, it’s not uncommon to see students dragging backpacks to school in silence, unstimulated and unmotivated. The pastor explained, “Though education is technically mandatory, no one is really teaching them. There is no reward for learning when the system is so deeply broken.”   This is the gap that Angels for Journey hopes to narrow.   With a suitcase full of school supplies, a tablet, and seven used smartphones, we traveled to three different church schools: the Hesed Bible School, the Tent of David in Mondul 3, and the Tent of David in Bethel Takam. At each stop, Cambodian students greeted us with choreographed dances set to songs praising God, performed in a one-car-garage-sized space.Without hesitation, they would teach me the dance moves, and I joined them on stage. I didn’t know the steps. But dancing became our first shared language. Eye contact, mimicry, giggles.   After our introductions, we read Nom Banh Chok, a Cambodian folktale we had translated into Korean and English. We also had the opportunity to listen to the story in Khmer, recorded by a Cambodian woman now living in Korea. For many of the children, it was the first time they saw their oral tradition in printed form, complete with vivid illustrations. That moment proved what we all sensed: with the right tools, these children are eager, desperate, even, to learn.   We played traditional Korean games like Yut Nori, Gonggi, Takji, and Jegichagi. They quickly became favorites. In Gonggi and Takji, the Cambodian kids beat us every time. One girl turned the paper airplane station into a folding masterclass, showing us faster, more aerodynamic styles. Others used coloring supplies and clay to sculpt everything. When we laughed, they laughed harder. A little girl named Yaya gave me a heart-shaped origami. Another, no older than six, cradled her baby brother as she played. These were the moments of charity and shared humanity we sought to bring in our press trip.   We met students like Sreynoch, Villay, Thaily, and Rota, who received the donated smartphones. The laptop and tablet went to the oldest daughter of a family with 12 children, a girl who, by cultural tradition, will inherit the family home and care for her parents alone. She studies in between preparing meals and looking after younger siblings. According to the pastor, Cambodia is a matriarchal society. Yet the burden that falls on women and girls is immense. Mothers are often away, working; fathers, though present, are sometimes violent or absent in other ways. The pastor’s wife told us, “When we first opened the school, the kids joked about hitting each other. That was what they saw at home. They had never known affection.” That’s why our time there mattered. It was not just about the material donations, but the connections.Even shy attempts to read our “LeadersTimes” T-shirts out loud felt significant. As the pastor’s wife said, “This visit is more than just a fun day. It’s a spark. You’re the first youth-led group to visit. This gives them a reason to keep going.”   At Bethel Takam, the most remote of our visits, nearly 70 students packed into a modest church space. They danced. They sang. They shouted “Akoun!” (Thank you!) as they each received school supplies, one by one. Before we left, I offered words of gratitude: “Thank you for the warm welcome. Though we come from different cultures and languages, I believe this encounter will help us all move forward.”   The Cambodian children never asked us to fix their country. But they hoped we would see them again and remember them. So we promise this: Angels for Journey will return, with more youth volunteers, more donatable devices, more times. Committed to the idea that education is not a privilege, we hope to support and grant them that right. And sometimes, all it takes to open the door is a paper airplane, a folktale book, or a donated phone.   

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  2025-07-01

• Incheon 6.25 War Student Memorial Hall

    On June 25th, 2025, instead of attending the festival at the UN Memorial Cemetery in Busan this year, I decided to visit the Incheon 6.25 War Student Memorial Hall.   Located beneath a dental clinic, I was skeptical of the memorial’s significance; however, I was wrong to judge a book by its cover. During the Korean War, students–as young as 14 year old middle schoolers–joined the frontlines under the name Student Volunteer Soldiers. Among them was Korean War veteran Lee Kyung-jong, then a middle school student in Incheon, who later became curious about the comrades he had fought alongside at such a young age. After becoming a successful dentist, he wanted to know how many of his young friends had participated and how many had been lost. Driven by this desire, he began meeting those who had shared the experience and meticulously collected materials. This effort culminated in the opening of the Incheon Student Korean War Memorial Hall on December 18, 2004.   Official casualties from the Korean War number over one million, with civilians accounting for more than 80%. War tore away people’s everyday lives, and many students, in an attempt to reclaim their lost lives, headed to the battlefield. These students who voluntarily joined the frontlines were called Student Volunteer Soldiers. Throughout the war, approximately 27,700 students participated in combat. In addition, about 200,000 students supported the war effort from behind the lines through psychological operations and efforts to restore public morale. Many young people volunteered to enlist and fight as soldiers. Among them were a significant number of women, most of whom served on the frontlines as nurses.   The Incheon Student Korean War Memorial Hall is a museum dedicated to preserving the stories of Incheon’s student soldiers who are often forgotten in official records. It was founded through the efforts of Lee Kyung-jong, a former student soldier, and his son, Lee Kyu-won, the current director of the museum.   “I was only sixteen. Why did I follow my older brothers into the war? How many of us went? How many of us died?”   Motivated by these questions, starting in 2000, they held exhibitions of war photos in Incheon, eventually establishing the museum on December 18, 2004. This date was not chosen at random. It was the day students in Incheon gathered at Incheon Chukhyeon Elementary School and began their march southward to enlist. Around 1,000 middle schoolers and 1,000 high schoolers, along with 20 university students leading them, volunteered together and marched 25 km per day for 20 days to protect their country.   The Incheon Student Korean War Memorial Hall now houses a wide collection of these materials across two exhibition floors. It also publishes research papers and other publications using the collected data. In one corner of the museum, there is also a memorial altar where visitors can pay tribute to the student soldiers who lost their lives in the Korean War. There we wrote our appreciation for the fallen soldiers and fellow students, ensuring their history is not forgotten.  

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  2025-06-30

• President Lee Highlights South Korea’s Energy and AI Vision at G7 Summit in Canada

    President Lee Jae-myung, who visited Canada to attend the G7 Summit, participated in the “Working Lunch and Expanded Session of the G7 Summit” held on the 17th (local time) under the theme of “The Future of Energy Security,” where he introduced South Korea’s energy-related policies.   During the expanded session, President Lee delivered two speeches in which he outlined South Korea’s policies and vision as a nation contributing to global prosperity through cooperation on energy supply chains and the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with energy and technological innovation.   In his first speech, President Lee emphasized that achieving energy security and stabilizing the supply chains of critical minerals are essential to global economic growth and prosperity. He expressed South Korea’s commitment to actively participating in international solidarity and cooperation to achieve these goals. He addressed the growing electricity demand driven by advances in AI and the threats to energy supply chains caused by climate variability and geopolitical instability. He stressed the need for stable, economical, and reliable energy systems as the foundation of energy security. In this context, he emphasized the importance of building a strong renewable energy industrial ecosystem, establishing efficient energy infrastructure such as an “energy superhighway,” and creating energy systems that are resilient even to cyberattacks.   President Lee also underscored the importance of stable supply chains for critical minerals, which are essential for eco-friendly energy systems. He highlighted South Korea’s leadership role as chair of the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) and its contribution to stabilizing critical mineral supply chains. He stated that South Korea will continue to strengthen bilateral and multilateral cooperation with G7 member states, partner countries, and mineral-rich nations.   In his second speech, which focused on the development of AI technologies, President Lee presented three key challenges the international community must address in the era of AI. He stressed the necessity of building a stable global AI ecosystem to drive technological innovation and expressed South Korea’s strong commitment to international cooperation and solidarity to stabilize the AI semiconductor supply chain. He also noted that South Korea will propose a vision and concrete action plans for global AI cooperation at this year’s APEC Summit in Gyeongju, and called on the leaders of major countries to show active interest and participation.   The Office of the President stated that by attending the G7 Summit and actively engaging in global discussions during this time of significant transformation in the global economic and security environment, the South Korean government will further solidify the country's international standing as a true “G7 Plus” nation.

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  2025-06-30

• “LeadersTimes Student Press Brings Education Aid and Culture Exchange to Cambodian Children”

      To support the ongoing mission of the NGO Angels for Journey, members of the LeadersTimes student press visited Siem Reap, Cambodia from June 14–16, 2025, engaging in cultural exchange and educational support with local children. The team collaborated with Hased Bible Church, led by a Korean missionary working to improve the lives of underprivileged Cambodian youth.   The visit began on June 14, after an overnight stay at Kouprey Hotel, with the group arriving at Hased Bible Church. The Cambodian children warmly welcomed the visitors with traditional dance performances, which volunteers joined on stage. They then read a translated Cambodian folktale, Nom Banh Chok, and introduced traditional Korean games such as Jegichagi, Gonggi, Takji, and Yut Nori. Among the participants, children like Chhiou and Sombat showed strong enthusiasm and skill, even teachingthe volunteers origami and paper plane techniques.   One student volunteer reflected, “Despite being the same age, they felt smaller and more burdened by life’s hardships. It made me realize how unequal the access to education truly is.” The team donated 1 iPad, 7 smartphones, 1 laptop, as well as food and school supplies to help bridge the digital and educational gap for the children.   On June 15, the team visited two more community churches: The Tent of David in Mondul 3 and Bethel Takam. At Mondul 3, the children again performed cultural dances and engaged in reading and games. A student named Meyyeon helped the volunteers learn the dances and impressed them with her fluent English skills. The group donated additional educational supplies, scholarships, and smartphones to support her academic growth.   The final stop at Bethel Takam, the largest of the visited churches with over 60 attendees, concluded the outreach. The team observed vibrant community participation and distributed aid, reinforcing their commitment to educational equity.   “This experience deepened my awareness of inequality and strengthened my resolve to continue Angels for Journey efforts,” a volunteer stated.      

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  2025-06-24