• 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.    

• Korea and EU Seek to Strengthen Strategic Cooperation in Advanced Industries

      Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kim Jeong-kwan met with Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice President of the European Union, in Seoul on November 27 to discuss ways to enhance strategic cooperation in advanced industrial and technological sectors, including semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), future mobility, batteries, and supply chains.   The meeting was held during Executive Vice President Virkkunen’s visit to Korea, which focuses on key EU priorities such as technological sovereignty, security, and digital transformation. Both sides shared the view that the rapidly changing global economic environment, marked by intensifying protectionism and supply chain disruptions, requires closer joint responses and strengthened cooperation.   Kim and Virkkunen noted the long-standing strategic partnership between Korea and the EU in economic and technological fields and agreed to elevate this partnership into a more future-oriented framework encompassing economic security and advanced industries. They emphasized the complementary nature of the two sides’ semiconductor sectors, with Korea specializing in memory manufacturing and the EU leading in automotive semiconductors and advanced equipment. Amid growing global supply chain uncertainty, the two sides committed to closer collaboration to establish more stable supply chains. They also explored specific areas of cooperation in AI, future mobility, and battery technologies.   The two sides reaffirmed their progress through multilateral technology cooperation platforms such as Eureka. Korea, the first non-European country to join Eureka in 2009, has worked with Europe in sectors including IT, materials engineering, and biotechnology, and has been actively engaged since being appointed as a board member in 2023. Both parties agreed to further strengthen cooperation in advanced technologies and supply chain resilience. The Korean side also raised concerns over the EU’s FSR review of the Czech nuclear power project and the EU’s proposed new steel import regulations, requesting constructive and amicable resolutions. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy stated that the meeting served as an opportunity to deepen Korea–EU cooperation in advanced sectors such as semiconductors, AI, and future mobility while reinforcing supply chain stability. The ministry added that it would work to activate high-level consultation channels and develop the issues discussed into tangible cooperative projects.  

• 한국이 만든 페루 스마트도로 청사진, 페루 국가 법정계획으로 채택

  좌로부터 두 번째 최종욱 주페루 대사, 세 번째 알도 마르틴 프리에토 바레라 페루 교통통신부 장관 [리더스타임즈] 국토교통 ODA 사업으로 추진(’24.7월 ~ ’25.6월)했던 '페루 국도 스마트도로관리(재난·교통) 마스터플랜'이 페루 정부의 국가 법정계획으로 공식 채택됐다. 우리나라의 도로관리 정책과 ITS 기술력이 국가 정책으로 인정받으면서 향후 후속사업과 우리 기업의 현지 진출도 확대될 전망이다. 국토교통부는 6월 25일(현지시간) 페루 교통통신부(MTC, Ministerio de Transportes y Comunicaciones)가'페루 국도 스마트도로관리(재난·교통) 마스터플랜'을 국가 법정계획으로 공포했다고 밝혔다. 이날 법제화를 위한 기념행사는 페루 교통통신부 강당에서 개최됐으며, 알도 마르틴 프리에토 바레라(Aldo Martin Prieto Barrera) 페루 교통통신부 장관, 국토교통부 및 한국도로공사 관계자 등이 참석했다. 행사에서는 국토교통부를 비롯한 양국 주요 인사 축사를 시작으로 한국도로공사의 지능형교통체계 관련 기조강연, 페루 교통통신부의 마스터플랜 발표, 관계기관 패널토론 등이 진행됐다. 한국의 도로망 구축 컨설팅 결과가 페루의 법정계획으로 공포됨으로써 페루 정부 차원에서 해당 정책을 구체적으로 구현하기 위한 조직, 예산 등 확보가 가능해진다. 이번 법제화는 한국의 도로 관련 공적개발원조 사업의 결과가 단순 컨설팅에 그치지 않고 페루의 정책으로 직접 반영됐다는 점에서 의미가 크다. 향후 페루에 도로망 구축사업이 발주되면, 우리 민간기업이 참여하는 후속사업을 기대할 수 있다. 앞서 ’19년에 수행한 콜롬비아 국가 ITS 마스터플랜 수립 ODA사업 또한 콜롬비아 현지 교통부의 승인을 받아 ’22년에 법정 계획화된 이후 활발한 후속사업과 민간기업 진출이 이뤄진 바 있다. 이에 비추어 페루에서도 한국 ITS 기술의 현지 확산과 한국기업의 진출이 기대된다. 이번 마스터플랜 수립 ODA 사업은 한국도로공사 컨소시엄(한국도로공사·동명기술공단·이젠시스)이 ’24년 7월부터 ’25년 6월까지 수행했다. 주요 과업 내용으로는 페루 간선 국도인 판아메리칸 하이웨이 1,560km (트루히요~아레키파) 구간의 스마트 도로관리 마스터플랜 수립과 후속 사업 발굴이 포함됐다. 특히, 사고 및 재난 피해를 최소화하기 위해 ’35년까지 단계적으로 도입할 13개 지능형교통체계(ITS) 단기 서비스를 선정하고, 최우선 중점 사업 구간(133.2km)에 대한 개념설계 및 이행계획을 수립하는 성과를 거뒀다. 국토교통부는 올해 7월부터 국토교통 ODA 사업을 통해 본 마스터플랜의 후속사업인'페루 리마–찬카이 스마트 지능형교통체계(ITS) 구축사업 타당성 조사'를 수행한다. 이번 사업을 통해 페루 ITS 구축이 본격화되면서, 우리 기업의 해외 진출 기반도 한층 강화될 것으로 기대된다. 국토교통부 김석기 건설정책국장은 “이번 성과는 국토교통 ODA사업을 통해 한국의 도로·교통 운영 경험을 페루 현지 여건에 맞게 체계화한 결과로, 향후 페루 국도의 안전성과 운영 효율 향상은 물론, 우리기업의 해외 진출에도 기여할 것으로 기대한다”라고 밝혔다.

  • Global News
  • 지구촌

  2026-06-28

• 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.

  • Global News
  • 영어뉴스

  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.

  • Global News
  • 영어뉴스

  2026-06-26

• 5월 하반기 캄보디아 한달 생활비 전달 - 185회

  리더스타임즈에서 진행 하였습니다   185회 째 한달 생활비를    아이입니다청소하는 것을 즐겨하며      

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  • 국제후원활동

  2026-06-15

• 5월 상반기 캄보디아 한달 생활비 전달 - 184회

    5월 상반기 캄보디아 한달 생활비 보내기 를 리더스타인브 회원님들의 기사, 가치 봉사로 전달 하였습니다 스카이12세 초등학교 6학년매일마다 율동하기를 아주 좋아하는 매우 좋아합니다.장래희망은 경찰관입니다.  “Angel for Kor-Fils’s Journey”  

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  • 국제후원활동

  2026-06-15

• 4월 하반기 캄보디아 한달 생활비 전달 - 183회

    4월 하반기 캄보디아 한달 생활비 보내기 를 리더스타인브 회원님들의 기사, 가치 봉사로 전달 하였습니다 ●롬둘10세, 초등학교 4학년명랑하고 발랄해서 율동을 아주 잘합니다...처음에는 쑥스러워 앞에  마음껏 끼를 발산하게 되었습니다.장래 희망은 선생님이 되는 것입니다.  “Angel for Kor-Fils’s Journey”

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  • 국제후원활동

  2026-06-09

• 4월 상반기 캄보디아 한달 생활비 전달 - 182회

  4월 상반기 캄보디아 한달 생활비 보내기 를 리더스타인브 회원님들의 기사, 가치 봉사로 전달 하였습니다 빤냐12세 초등학교 5학년활달하고 씩씩한 용사입니다.청소도 잘하고 무엇이든지  장래 소망이 경찰이랍니다.  “Angel for Kor-Fils’s Journey”

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  • 국제후원활동

  2026-04-20

• 외교부, 2026 KOREAZ 서포터즈 발대식 및 디지털 글로벌 캠페인 출범식 개최

  외교부 [리더스타임즈] 외교부는 4월 10일 외교부 서희홀에서 2026 KOREAZ 서포터즈 발대식 및 2026 디지털 글로벌 캠페인 ‘YouthFULL Tomorrow’ 출범식을 개최했다. 이번 2026년 제6기 서포터즈는 치열한 경쟁을 뚫고 선발된 한국인 20명과 외국인 20명(18개국) 총 40명으로 구성됐으며, 전년도(32명)에 비해 인원이 확대되고 참가 국적 또한 더욱 다양해졌다. KOREAZ 서포터즈는 이번 발대식을 시작으로 ▴주요 외교행사 및 공공외교 현장 취재 ▴개인별·팀별 디지털 공공외교 콘텐츠 제작 ▴디지털 글로벌 캠페인 영상 제작 등 다양한 온·오프라인 활동을 전개할 계획이다. 임상우 외교부 공공외교대사는 환영사를 통해 서포터즈들을 격려하고 디지털 글로벌 캠페인의 시작을 알렸다. 임 대사는 마다가스카르 대사 시절 직접 카메라를 들고 소통했던 경험 등을 공유하며 디지털 플랫폼을 활용하여 전 세계 대중과 소통하는 것의 중요성을 강조했다. 한편, 임 대사는 올해 디지털 글로벌 캠페인 주제인 YouthFULL Tomorrow를 소개하며, 디지털 네이티브인 청년들이 새로운 시각으로 한국의 숨은 매력을 찾고 세계에 전달하는 공공외교의 주역이 되어줄 것을 당부했다. 임 대사와 서포터즈들은 차준환 선수가 출연한 홍보영상과 우리 AI 기업과 협업으로 제작한 AI 홍보영상을 통해 캠페인 주제를 이해하고, ‘미래에 보내는 타임캡슐’ 행사를 진행하며 캠페인 출범의 의미를 더했다. 올 한해 외교부는 YouthFULL Tomorrow 캠페인 확산을 위해 콘텐츠 공모전(외교부장관상), AR 게임 챌린지, SNS 챌린지 등 다채로운 디지털 활동을 전개하며 전 세계와 소통할 예정이다. 특히 캠페인 메시지 확산 과정에서 청년층의 참여를 이끌어내고 우리 AI 기업과의 협력을 확대함으로써, 국정과제인 ‘국민과 함께하는 외교’를 실현하고 청년 참여형 디지털 공공외교의 저변을 넓혀나갈 방침이다.

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  2026-04-10

• 3월 하반기 캄보디아 한달 생활비 전달 - 181회

    3월 하반기 캄보디아 한달 생활비 보내기 를 리더스타인브 회원님들의 기사, 가치 봉사로 전달 하였습니다 티어랏12세 초등학교 6학년말괄냥이 티어랏은  특별합니다.장래 소망은 평범한    “Angel for Kor-Fils’s Journey”  

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  • 국제후원활동

  2026-03-30

• 3월 상반기 캄보디아 한달 생활비 전달 - 180회

    3월 상반기 캄보디아 한달 생활비 보내기 를 리더스타인브 회원님들의 기사, 가치 봉사로 전달 하였습니다 ●리차니16살 15학년모든 것에 열심히 하는 적극적인 일에 달란트가 있습니다.장래 희망은 선생님입니다. 아래 사진은 봉사에 참가한 명단입니다

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  • 국제후원활동

  2026-03-23

실시간 Global News 기사

• Cambodia activities of students affiliated with LeadersTimes

    In June 2025, the LeadersTimes press group visited rural parts of Cambodia with aid and resources. We went there to help the students who live in impoverished circumstances. Even some of them did not have a phone, so we brought some phones that were no longer in use but still working. Furthermore, we provided some money to give away to them. Arriving in Cambodia, it was shocking how different life was here, as there usually are lots of buildings near the airport, but there was only grass, mountains, and some little houses. I felt I had to help the students in reaching their goals.  When we went to the church to provide support, the locals and kids prepared lots of dance for us to welcome us. We also prepared several Korean traditional games and books, which are written in both Korean and Cambodian. After dancing together and learning the traditional dances, we gave them a book named ‘nombanjjog’ to read together. Afterwards, we played ‘Yutnori,’ which is a traditional Korean game. After playing a game and learning the rules, the children became excited to compete and play with us. We also prepared origami to make a ‘Takji’ and play with them. Finally, we played ‘Jegichagi’ with them, a Korean traditional kick-up game. It was really hard for us, but they easily caught on. After spending time and playing together, we gave them phones, money, and resources before moving on to the next location.  When we arrived at the second place, they welcomed us with the same dance, and we prayed and sang together. I went to play ‘Jegichagi’ with kids, but almost no one played it this time. Instead, they enjoyed drawing and playing with confetti. So I just keep making ‘Takji’ and more origami. Finally, at the last place, there were many more people than in the previous place, yet there was not much more room. Once again, they danced and welcomed us, and we played traditional games and bonded with the children.  I knew that Cambodia does not live as well as other countries, but seeing the situation firsthand helped us realize how significant our support really was. This experience was one of the most impressive things, to be able to help someone who lives far away in another country and support their educational journey. 

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  2025-07-20

• 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

• 6월 하반기 장학금 전달 - 157회

  클럽회원님들의 기사, 가치 봉사로 전달 하였습니다 ●피자12세 초등학교 6학년체격이 작고 항상 연약한 외로움이 큰 이 아이에게  시작 되면서  했어요.가정사로  홀로 있던 아이가 엄마가  사는 것이 큰 복이고 소망인 싶다고 합니다... 아래 사진은 봉사에 참가한 명단입니다    

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  2025-07-06

• 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

• 외교부, 지구 반대편도 대비 완료! 볼리비아에서 재외국민보호를 위한 위기 대응 태세 점검

  라파스 지역 경찰서장 및 소방서장 면담 [리더스타임즈] 외교부는 볼리비아 내 재외국민보호를 위한 위기 대응 태세를 점검하기 위해 경찰청 및 민간전문가와 함께 6월 30일~7월 1일간 주볼리비아대사관에서 신속대응팀 모의훈련 및 민관합동 해외안전자문단 활동을 실시했다. 이번 훈련은 올해 11월 대선을 앞두고 정치세력간 유혈충돌 및 무력시위가 고조되고 있는 볼리비아의 정세를 감안, 대규모 소요사태 발생을 가정하여 볼리비아 내 우리 국민 보호를 위한 외교부-재외공관-유관기관간 유기적인 신속대응체계를 점검했다. 이장 주볼리비아대사는 “주재국 현지 상황을 반영한 이번 도상훈련은 위기 발생 시 각 기관 간 역할과 협업 체계를 사전에 점검하고, 우리 국민 보호를 위한 대비 태세를 강화하는 데 큰 도움이 됐다”고 평가했다. 이번 신속대응팀 모의훈련 출장단은 볼리비아 수도 라파스 내 한인 거주지역인 조나수르(Zona Sur) 경찰서장 및 소방서장과 면담하여 향후 비상상황 발생 시 우리 국민 보호를 위한 볼리비아 당국의 긴밀한 협조를 요청하는 한편, 우리 국민 대상 안전간담회를 통해 현지 안전정보와 비상 시 행동요령을 공유하고, 한인단체와 공관 간 비상연락체계도 점검했다. 아울러, 동 출장단의 일원으로 참여한 대테러분야 민간전문가 이만종 한국대테러학회장은 주볼리비아대사관의 위기대응체계를 점검하고 현지 맞춤형 안전자문을 실시했다. 외교부는 앞으로도 다양한 위기상황에 대비한 신속대응팀 모의훈련 및 민관합동 해외안전자문단 활동을 지속 추진함으로써, 해외 위난 및 사고로부터 우리 국민의 생명과 안전을 지키기 위한 대응 역량 및 유관기관간 협조체계를 더욱 강화해나갈 예정이다.

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  2025-07-03

• 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.   

  • Global News
  • 영어뉴스

  2025-07-01