• 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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• President Lee and President Trump Hold First Phone Call, Vow Closer Korea-U.S. Alliance

    On the night of June 6, President Lee Jae-myung held his first summit phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump. According to a written briefing from spokesperson Kang Yoo-jung, the two leaders agreed to closely cooperate for the continued development of the South Korea–U.S. alliance.   During the approximately 20-minute call, which began at 10 p.m., President Trump congratulated President Lee on his recent election victory. President Lee expressed his gratitude and reaffirmed the importance of the South Korea–U.S. alliance, describing it as the cornerstone of the nation's foreign policy.   The two leaders also discussed ongoing tariff negotiations between the two countries. They pledged to work toward a mutually satisfactory agreement and to encourage visible progress at the working-level talks.   President Trump extended an invitation for President Lee to visit the United States. In response, President Lee expressed his hope that the two leaders would meet frequently, underscoring the need for continued consultation between the allied nations. Both sides agreed to arrange an in-person meeting at the earliest opportunity, whether on the sidelines of a multilateral summit or through a bilateral visit.   Spokesperson Kang noted that the conversation was conducted in a friendly and candid atmosphere. The leaders shared various anecdotes from their respective election campaigns, including experiences related to assassination threats and political challenges. They expressed mutual understanding and agreed that strong leadership emerges from overcoming such adversity.   In a lighter moment, the two leaders also discussed their golf skills and agreed to enjoy a round together when schedules permit, as a symbolic gesture of their alliance. President Lee shared a story about receiving a hat signed by President Trump as a gift, to which Trump responded with interest, saying he looked forward to meeting Lee in person soon, praising his reputation.   Kang concluded that the call served not only as an opportunity to discuss current bilateral issues but also as a meaningful step in building mutual trust and rapport between the two leaders.

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  2025-06-23

• Vice Minister Chung Byung-won Attends ASEAN-Related Senior Officials’ Meetings in Malaysia

    Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Chung Byung-won represented South Korea as head delegate at a series of ASEAN-related Senior Officials’ Meetings (SOM) held in Penang, Malaysia, from June 10 to 11. The meetings included the ASEAN+3 (APT), East Asia Summit (EAS), and ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) gatherings. Convened ahead of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in July and the Leaders’ Summit in October, these discussions provided an opportunity to assess ongoing cooperation with ASEAN and to exchange views on key regional and global developments.   During the meetings, Vice Minister Chung reaffirmed the South Korean government’s continued commitment to prioritizing its partnership with ASEAN under the new administration. He expressed support for the "ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future" vision, adopted at the 46th ASEAN Summit on May 26, emphasizing its alignment with South Korea’s regional policy goals.   At the ASEAN+3 Senior Officials’ Meeting on June 10, Chung welcomed the decision made by the ASEAN+3 Finance Ministers’ Meeting in March 2025 to revise the Chiang Mai Initiative Multilateralization (CMIM) agreement and introduce a Rapid Financing Facility (RFF). He also highlighted South Korea’s contributions to concrete cooperation initiatives under the ASEAN+3 framework, such asthe expanded CAMPUS Asia program involving Korea, Japan, and China, and the APT Center for Gifted Science Students.   Participants acknowledged the recent restoration of trilateral cooperation, marked by the 9th Korea-Japan-China Summit in May 2023 and the 11th Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in March 2025. They agreed to deepen collaboration in key areas such as climate change, digital transformation, disaster management, and the fight against transnational crime.   Chung also took part in the EAS and ARF Senior Officials’ Meetings held on June 10 and 11, where he exchanged views on major geopolitical and security issues, including the Korean Peninsula, the South China Sea, Myanmar, Ukraine, and the Middle East. In light of the growing uncertainty and heightened tensions in the global security landscape, he underscored the importance of ASEAN-led mechanisms, particularly as the EAS marks its 20th anniversary this year, and reaffirmed South Korea’s support for ASEAN centrality and its willingness to contribute constructively to regional peace and stability.   On the sidelines of the meetings, Vice Minister Chung held bilateral consultations with several SOM counterparts, including the representative from Malaysia, which will serve as ASEAN chair in 2025. Discussions focused on strengthening ASEAN-South Korea cooperation, preparations for the upcoming foreign ministers’ and leaders’ meetings, and key bilateral issues.  

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  2025-06-20

• South Korea and OSCE Co-Host 3rd Inter-Regional Conference on Emerging Technologies and Security

      On May 26, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, in collaboration with the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), co-hosted the 3rd Inter-Regional Conference on the Impact of Emerging Technologies. Held in Vienna, Austria, the conference brought together over 150 government officials and private-sector experts from Europe and Asia, both in person and online. Participants engaged in in-depth discussions on the implications of technological advancement for peace and security across both regions and explored ways to strengthen international cooperation in response.   In a video address during the opening session, Cho Koo-rae, Director-General of the Foreign Strategy and Intelligence Bureau of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the growing interconnectivity of security issues between Europe and the Indo-Pacific. He emphasized that building trust through inter-regional cooperation is essential to effectively address security threats posed by emerging technologies. Marking the 50th anniversary of the OSCE’s founding document, the Helsinki Final Act, Cho commended the OSCE for continuing dialogue with key partners like South Korea on international cooperation in the emerging technologies sector. He reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to working with the OSCE to counter transnational security threats.   The first session, titled “Opportunities and Challenges in the Military and Security Sectors Stemming from Emerging Technologies,” examined the military applications of emerging technologies and ways to ensure transparency and accountability. Participants reached a consensus on the need to establish international norms to promote the responsible use of such technologies.   A panel discussion during the session focused on the economic and social impacts of AI-driven information manipulation. Panelists voiced concerns about the growing sophistication of disinformation due to rapid advancements in AI and called for measures to enhance digital resilience and build trust among nations.   The second session explored a range of security challenges posed by emerging technologies, including complex threats targeting critical infrastructure. In a keynote speech delivered virtually, Yoon Jong-kwon, Director-General for International Security Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscored the increasing physical and cyber threats to critical infrastructure. He stressed the urgent need to bolster resilience and deepen international cooperation to address these challenges effectively.   Since 2017, the South Korean government has partnered with the OSCE to convene high-level dialogues addressing transnational security threats. This year’s conference, held on the 50th anniversary of the OSCE’s founding, not only advanced cooperation between Europe and Asia on technology and security but also reaffirmed South Korea’s leadership and growing stature in international discussions on emerging global threats.

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  2025-06-02

• South Korea Highlights North Korean Human Rights Abuses at First-Ever High-Level UN General Assembly Meeting

    On May 20, the South Korean government participated in the High-Level Meeting on the Human Rights Situation in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), convened in New York by the President of the 79th United Nations General Assembly.   This landmark meeting, the first at the General Assembly, was held in accordance with the DPRK human rights resolution unanimously adopted during the 79th session of the UN General Assembly in December 2024. It provided a critical platform for in-depth discussion on the grave human rights situation in North Korea and marked a significant step in elevating the issue within one of the UN’s principal organs, which comprises all member states. The meeting followed previous discussions at the UN Security Council and the Human Rights Council, but its occurrence at the General Assembly further underscored the international community’s growing concern and commitment to addressing systemic rights violations in the DPRK.   South Korea’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Hwang Joon-kook, led the Korean delegation and underscored the historic nature of the meeting, occurring two decades after the initial adoption of the resolution addressing North Korean human rights. In his remarks, Ambassador Hwang highlighted worsening human rights conditions in the North, including reports of forced labor, which may constitute crimes against humanity, as well as intensified state surveillance, increased border control, and severe restrictions on freedom of expression.   Moreover, he called for the urgent resolution of issues related to abductees, detainees, and South Korean prisoners of war. He specifically demanded the prompt release of South Korean missionaries Kim Jung-wook, Kim Kuk-ki, and Choe Chun-gil, who remain detained in North Korea. Expressing grave concern over the inhumane treatment of North Korean defectors facing forced repatriation, he urged all UN member states to uphold the principle of non-refoulement—the international legal norm prohibiting the return of individuals to countries where they may face persecution.     On the sidelines of the high-level meeting, the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Korea to the UN co-hosted a reception with the Global Coalition for the Human Rights of North Koreans. Held on the afternoon of May 20, the event brought together UN member states and civil society organizations to raise awareness, strengthen partnerships, and showcase the work of civil society groups committed to improving human rights in North Korea.The South Korean government reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing a multi-faceted approach to ensuring that meaningful dialogue and action on North Korea’s human rights situation continue on various international platforms, including the United Nations.

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  2025-05-24

• Korea and UAE Hold 6th High-Level Nuclear Cooperation Meeting in Abu Dhabi

    The 6th Korea-UAE High-Level Nuclear Cooperation Committee convened on Tuesday, April 22, in Abu Dhabi, with Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Kang Insun and Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei serving as the chief representatives of each country.   During the meeting, both sides acknowledged that cooperation in the nuclear energy sector remains a cornerstone of the “Special Strategic Partnership” between Korea and the UAE. They agreed to further strengthen this collaboration by jointly pursuing nuclear power projects in third countries and initiating new joint research in nuclear science and technology, among other initiatives.   The session also included progress reviews from three working groups, which reported on the outcomes and developments since the 5th committee meeting held in July 2023. Discussions covered new potential projects and avenues for cooperation.   Both parties committed to faithfully implementing the committee’s outcomes and to regularly assessing the progress of ongoing initiatives. They also agreed to hold the 7th High-Level Committee meeting in Korea next year.   On the same day, Vice Minister Kang and Minister Al Mazrouei held a separate bilateral meeting, where they reaffirmed the significance of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant project as a key pillar of the Korea-UAE strategic partnership. They emphasized the importance of advancing bilateral nuclear cooperation with a more strategic and long-term outlook.     In addition to nuclear cooperation, the two sides recognized their close ties in the traditional energy sector, with the UAE ranking as Korea’s third-largest crude oil supplier as of 2024. Looking ahead, they agreed to expand their collaboration to include joint oil stockpiling efforts and explore partnerships in future energy sectors such as hydrogen and solar power.

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  2025-04-28

• Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul Highlights Global Climate Commitment at 4th P4G Summit in Hanoi

    From April 16 to 17, Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul attended the 4th Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 (P4G) Summit held in Hanoi, Vietnam, under the theme “Global Partnership for an Inclusive, Innovative, and People-Centered Green Transition.”   The summit brought together high-level representatives from around 20 countries, including Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, Laotian Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Neth Savoeun, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof (via video), and French President Emmanuel Macron (via video). The event also saw the participation of international organizations, multilateral development banks, green technology startups, investors, and youth organizations, with notable figures such as UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed and GGGI Director-General Kim Sang-hyup in attendance.   In his remarks during the High-Level Plenary on April 16, Minister Cho emphasized the urgent need to restore global momentum in the fight against climate change. He called on the international community to pursue the green transition with a strong foundation in innovation, inclusiveness, and solidarity.   Minister Cho reaffirmed Korea’s commitment to climate action, recognizing the P4G platform as a bridge between developed and developing countries, and a key facilitator of public-private cooperation and civil society participation. He also announced Korea’s plan to contribute approximately USD 1.8 million in new funding to P4G, highlighting the country’s voluntary and proactive support for the initiative. Korea has been a founding member of P4G since its inception in 2018 and previously hosted the 2nd P4G Summit in Seoul in 2021.   The Hanoi summit served as an opportunity to showcase Korea’s cutting-edge climate and environmental technologies. Minister Cho visited the exhibition hall held alongside the summit, where he encouraged Korean startup companies presenting innovative solutions for green growth.   At the closing ceremony on April 17, the “Hanoi Declaration of the 4th P4G Summit” was expected to be adopted, reaffirming the importance of promoting green growth and green investment. The declaration is anticipated to play a vital role in maintaining global momentum in climate action.   Looking ahead, the Korean government plans to continue its active engagement in global efforts to address climate change and accelerate the transition toward a sustainable future.  

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  2025-04-21

• South Korea Advances Small Satellite System for National Security and Space Industry Growth

    From April 2 to April 4, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), the Korea Aerospace Administration, and the Korea Coast Guard convened in Busan for the "Detailed Design Review Meeting for the Small Satellite System." The purpose of the meeting was to evaluate whether the current satellite system design meets the required performance standards and to discuss future steps in the development process.   The Small Satellite System Development Project is a multi-agency initiative designed to rapidly monitor crisis situations on the Korean Peninsula and its surrounding waters. The project also aims to establish an efficient system for utilizing national space assets. Led by the Agency for Defense Development (ADD), the initiative includes collaboration among various domestic research institutes and private companies.   During the design review, officials conducted a comprehensive evaluation to confirm that the satellite system meets performance requirements. The meeting also officially confirmed the project's readiness to move forward with prototype production, system integration, and testing within the approved budget and timeline.   The project will now enter the production phase of the flight model (FM) for the SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) verification satellite, with an actual space launch planned for 2026 following a series of ground tests. Subsequent launches will include SAR constellation satellites and EO (Electro-Optical) satellites, further expanding South Korea's space-based monitoring capabilities.   Jung Kyu-heon, Director of the Space Command and Communications Program Division at DAPA, emphasized the importance of the project, stating, “The development of the small satellite system is progressing smoothly. We are actively reviewing the establishment of a joint civil-military operations center to ensure efficient utilization of national space assets. Once operational, the system will complement the 425 satellite and serve as a core component of the military’s Kill Chain strategy.”   Kim Jin-hee, Director of the Satellite Division at the Korea Aerospace Administration, highlighted the project's broader significance. “Having passed a key milestone in development, we will continue to support the remaining stages. This project will contribute to public safety through rapid disaster response and infrastructure monitoring, while also helping to secure core space technologies and foster the growth of South Korea’s space industry through domestic launch opportunities,” she said.   The continued progress of the Small Satellite System Development Project underscores South Korea's commitment to enhancing national security, responding to disasters, and expanding its footprint in the global space industry.

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  2025-04-17

• South Korea Strengthens Defense Ties with Romania Amid European Rearmament Efforts

                                                                                                         Photograph offered by Hanhwa Aerospace Seok Jong-geon, Chief of South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), visited Romania from March 28 to 29 as the country accelerates its rearmament efforts to enhance military capabilities. The visit was part of South Korea’s broader strategy to position itself as a key defense cooperation partner between NATO and the European Union, particularly in light of the EU’s recently announced European rearmament plan.   Romania has emerged as a crucial defense industry partner for South Korea in Eastern Europe, following the export of Shin-Gungman-portable air defense systems in 2023 and K9 self-propelled howitzers in 2024. During his visit, Seok engaged in high-level meetings with key Romanian officials to assess Europe's defense reinforcement strategies and promote South Korea’s defense industry solutions.   Over the two-day visit, Seok met with key decision-makers in Romania’s defense acquisition sector, where discussions emphasized the advantages of South Korea’s defense industry, particularly its ability to localize production effectively. Both sides agreed that South Korean defense systems could play a significant role in supporting Romania’s military modernization efforts. The meetings also provided an opportunity to review the progress of Shin-Gung and K9 howitzer exports, while also supporting South Korea’s bids for Romania’s infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) and main battle tank (MBT) acquisition programs with the Redback armored vehicle and K2 MBT.   In a meeting with Nicoleta Pauliuc, Chair of the Senate Defense Committee, Seok discussed South Korea’s proactive collaboration with Romanian companies to facilitate the participation of the Redback and K2 in Romania’s procurement programs. Pauliuc, who holds authority over defense acquisition budget approvals and allocations, acknowledged South Korea’s role as a key partner in Romania’s defense industry development.   Seok also met with Bogdan-Gruia Ivan, Minister of Economy, Entrepreneurship, and Tourism, who oversees major defense project decisions and industrial cooperation. The discussions focused on expanding defense collaboration into new areas such as naval vessels and advanced defense technologies. Ivan expressed Romania’s interest in working with South Korean defense and shipbuilding companies to enhance security in the Black Sea region and strengthen the country’s shipbuilding industry. He also proposed cooperation in cutting-edge defense technologies, including artificial intelligence and quantum computing, to which Seok responded by agreeing to accelerate discussions.     Summarizing the visit, Seok stated, “This visit to Romania provided firsthand insight into the largest European rearmament effort since the Cold War and created new opportunities for defense cooperation with NATO and EU countries.” He emphasized that South Korea will make every effort to ensure the successful export of the Redback armored vehicle and K2 MBT, building on the momentum established during the meetings.  

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  2025-04-07

• South Korea and Thailand Sign Nuclear Cooperation Agreement to Foster Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy

  On March 21, 2025, the "Agreement on Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy between the Government of the Republic of Korea and the Government of Thailand" was officially signed in Bangkok. Ambassador Park Yong-min of the Republic of Korea to Thailand and Supamas Isarabhakdi, the Minister of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation of Thailand, signed the agreement, marking Thailand as the 30th country to enter into a nuclear cooperation agreement with Korea.   Both countries, as members of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), have prioritized nuclear safety and environmental protection as key objectives. By leveraging nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, the two nations aim to foster socio-economic development, which prompted the signing of the agreement.   Through this partnership, Korea and Thailand plan to enhance cooperation in several key areas, including nuclear research and technology development, the construction and operation of nuclear power plants and research reactors, and the use of radioactive isotopes in various fields such as industry, agriculture, and medicine. The agreement also covers radioactive waste management, nuclear safety, human resources development, and public awareness. To ensure the effective implementation of these initiatives, both countries will establish a joint committee and initiate specific activities such as technological exchanges, joint research, expert training, and the transfer of equipment and technology.   The Korea-Thailand Nuclear Cooperation Agreement serves as the institutional framework for the peaceful use of nuclear energy between the two countries. Korea, with its advanced nuclear technology and expertise, will support the development of Thailand's nuclear infrastructure. In turn, Thailand aims to promote industrial and scientific advancement through the expanded peaceful use of nuclear energy. This collaboration is expected to foster mutually beneficial outcomes and strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations.

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  2025-03-31

• South Korea and U.S. Sign MOU to Digitize Sanitary Certification for Livestock Imports

    The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) to digitize sanitary certificates for American livestock products imported into South Korea. The agreement, finalized on March 13 in Washington D.C., marks a significant advancement in streamlining the import process and strengthening food safety management between the two nations.   This collaboration is the result of extensive working-level discussions between MFDS and FSIS since last year, aimed at ensuring a secure and efficient exchange of sanitary certification data. As early as the end of this year, South Korea is expected to implement an electronic sanitary certification system, becoming the first country in the world to receive digital sanitary certification information for livestock products from the United States.   The initiative holds particular importance given that U.S. livestock products constitute the largest share—approximately 31%—of South Korea’s total meat imports. With the adoption of electronic sanitary certification, South Korea will join Australia, Chile, Thailand, Brazil, and New Zealand in utilizing this system. Once in place, an estimated 68% of the country’s imported livestock products will be processed through digital certification.   The transition to electronic certification is expected to deliver multiple benefits. By eliminating the risk of certificate forgery and falsification, the system will enhance the safety management of imported and exported livestock products. Furthermore, digitalization will remove the need for issuing, verifying, and storing paper documents, improving inspection efficiency and reducing costs. The reduction of paper usage also aligns with global carbon neutrality goals, reinforcing sustainability efforts.   MFDS has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening international cooperation to expand the use of electronic sanitary certification for imported livestock and seafood products. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to accelerate the digital transformation of imported food safety management, ensuring a more efficient, secure, and sustainable regulatory framework.  

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  2025-03-24