285 Young Overseas Koreans From 55 Countries Meet Their Roots in Korea

A total of 285 young overseas Koreans (aged 18 to 25) gathered from 55 countries around the world are taking part in the "2026 Next-Generation Overseas Korean Homeland Invitation Program, First Youth Session," to experience South Korea's history and culture and to network with one another.

Opening Ceremony and Purpose of the Program

• The Overseas Koreans Agency holds the opening ceremony of the "2026 Next-Generation Overseas Korean Homeland Invitation Program, First Youth Session"
• Over seven days, participants experience history, culture, and peace and network with young overseas Koreans from around the world

The Overseas Koreans Agency (Commissioner Kim Kyung-hyup) held the opening ceremony at 10 a.m. on July 15 at the Swiss Grand Hotel in Seoul and welcomed the participants.

From July 14 to 20, over seven days, participants visit historical, cultural, and industrial sites across South Korea to experience the homeland's past and present firsthand.

The program was created to help next-generation overseas Korean youth build their identity and pride as Koreans, and to network with young overseas Koreans from around the world to establish an international Korean network.

Hands-On, Participatory Programs

This year, lecture-centered programming was reduced and "hands-on, participatory programs," in which participants see, feel, and communicate directly, were expanded. Field experiences and lectures that deepen understanding of the Korean Peninsula's history and peace were also strengthened.

After the opening ceremony, participants split into regional groups to visit historical sites such as the Independence Hall of Korea in Cheonan, the Goseong Unification Observatory, and the Donghak Peasant Revolution Memorial Park.

They also take part in the Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan, cultural experiences in the Jeonju area, and a tour of the Hyundai Motorstudio, examining South Korea's culture and industrial development.

Opening Address by Commissioner Kim Kyung-hyup

In his opening address, Overseas Koreans Agency Commissioner Kim Kyung-hyup extended a welcome, saying, "You grew up amid different languages and cultures, but you are connected by a single root called 'the Republic of Korea.'"

He continued, "Through this program, I hope you will understand the homeland more deeply and build precious bonds with young overseas Koreans from around the world," and added, "I hope you will grow into a bridge that promotes the value of peace on the Korean Peninsula and carries on Korean culture in your countries of residence."

Full Program Schedule

The "2026 Next-Generation Overseas Korean Homeland Invitation Program" began on June 22 and runs through August 17, held a total of nine times, including six youth (adolescent) sessions and three young-adult sessions. About 2,600 next-generation overseas Koreans from around the world take part.

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