1. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) held a year-end event on Tuesday, December 19, where supporters who actively engaged in digital public diplomacy worldwide during the year 2023 gathered and strengthened their network. The event, titled 『2023 KOREAZ Global Festival: Unlocking the Power of Networks』 was conducted both on- and off-line, connecting venues in Seoul and various locations worldwide. Around 300 people in total, including KOREAZ Honorary Reporters and supporters from the Korean diplomatic missions overseas, who came together at MOFA or their respective missions, participated in various programs, including the screening of videos of supporters’ activities, award presentations for the best and excellent KOREAZ reporters, and a quiz contest.

※ KOREAZ: A digital public diplomacy social media channel operated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, X)

2. Ambassador and Deputy Minister for Public Diplomacy Hong, Seok-in, in his welcome remarks, stated that, just as the supporters have built various networks this year, Korea, too, has been working to expand and strengthen its diplomatic relations under national goals such as realizing the vision of becoming a Global Pivotal State and implementing the Indo-Pacific Strategy. Ambassador Hong also recognized the potential of the networks built by the supporters and expressed his expectation that they will continue to create a better world together with Korea.

3. The participants - MOFA's supporters – are promoting Korea to people around the globe in the digital space, which has emerged as a platform not only for everyday communication, but also for shaping global public opinion. This event provided an opportunity for supporters in Korea and abroad to interact and strengthen their bonds, thereby enhancing the Korea-friendly youth network. MOFA plans to continue strengthening public diplomacy in collaboration with the digital generation, particularly the youth.