7th Next Generation Korea Experts Workshop Held

# 7th Next Generation Korea Experts Workshop Held

• A forum for the next generation of researchers from around the world to explore Korea and exchange ideas
• Related national policy task: 120. Build a G7+ diplomatic power through contribution to and participation in the international community

The 7th Next Generation Korea Experts Workshop, hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, concluded successfully on Thursday, July 9. The program ran from Monday, June 29, through Thursday, July 9, with 46 master's and doctoral students from 20 countries who are studying in South Korea.

Participants visited major institutions including the Foreign Ministry, the Korea Foundation Global Center and the Global Green Growth Institute, broadening their understanding of Korean foreign policy and international cooperation. In a conversation with Public Diplomacy Ambassador Lim Sang-woo, they freely exchanged views on the meaning of public diplomacy and Korea's role in the international community.

They also held group discussions and research on 5 themes—economy, culture, climate, politics and diplomacy, and history—and presented results based on their reports. Participants visited HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and HD Hyundai Construction Equipment in Ulsan to see sites of Korean industrial development. They also experienced Korean history and culture at Bulguksa Temple, Gyeongju National Museum, the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History and the National Museum of Korea.

- Economy: The dual impact of AI and semiconductor industry development on youth employment in Korea

Culture: Changes in Korea's image through Korean dramas

Climate: The climate and environmental burden of AI data centers and guidelines for sustainable expansion

Politics and diplomacy: From Study Korea to Stay Korea—research on Korea's strategy for retaining talent

History: The historical value of Gwanghwamun Square and its meaning in modern society

Participants said that communicating with people of different languages, nationalities and backgrounds gave them a broader perspective on Korea. They evaluated the Foreign Ministry visit, Ulsan industrial tour and Gyeongju cultural excursion as valuable opportunities to learn about and appreciate Korea's diverse aspects outside the classroom.

They also said that learning and interacting with international students who share an interest in Korea motivated them to understand and study the country more deeply. Some expressed a desire to serve as bridges between Korea and their home countries in their respective fields.

The Next Generation Korea Experts Workshop has operated since 2020 to deepen foreign master's and doctoral students' understanding of Korea and help them grow into future Korea experts. The Foreign Ministry plans to continue strengthening and expanding its network with the next generation of Korea experts and actively pursue public diplomacy projects that improve international understanding of the country.

Attachment: Photographs from the 7th Next Generation Korea Experts Workshop. End.