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Korea Herald
22-05-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
[Africa Forum] AGA dean highlights the significance of Korea-Africa relations in era of disruption
Dean of African Group of Ambassadors says time has come to unlock the full potential of Africa-Korea partnership The Korea-Africa partnership is about more than an opportunity to explore shared dreams in a changing global environment, according to Moroccan Ambassador Chafik Rachadi, who serves as the dean of the African Group of Ambassadors. 'The Africa and Korea partnership of the 21st century speaks the language of collaboration, equity and long-term resilience. In this era of global disruption, fostering these robust and inclusive partnerships goes beyond economic and political cooperation,' said Rachadi in his opening remarks at the Africa Day 2025 Korea-Africa Business Forum on Wednesday. The forum at Grand Hyatt Seoul was co-hosted by Herald Media Group, the African Group of Ambassadors and the Korea-Africa Foundation. Though the cooperation between the two has yet to reach its full potential, the Moroccan ambassador believes that the next decade presents a chance to accomplish a dynamic framework grounded in mutual interest and strategic collaboration. 'Korea's leadership in innovation, digital technology, clean energy and smart infrastructure can meet Africa's growing demand for transformation and inclusive growth. At the same time, Africa's youthful demographics, natural resources and expanding markets represent unparalleled opportunities,' Rachadi said. 'The time has come to unlock the full potential of the Africa-Korea partnership,' he added. While explaining how the African continent has immeasurable potential, as well as geopolitical and economic significance across the globe, the AGA dean underlined the partnership with Korea as a sign of trust, mutual respect and a shared vision for an inclusive future. 'Let us seize this moment to chart a more ambitious course, grounded in mutual benefit, shared prosperity and a deep commitment to Africa's transformative potential,' he said.
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Korea Herald
22-05-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
[Africa Forum] Bridging Africa, Korea; building shared future
Seoul forum highlights growing Korea-Africa ties across trade, innovation, cultural exchange Seizing opportunities through innovative collaboration and targeted initiatives is critical to unlocking Africa's vast potential as a key engine of global growth and reinforcing Korea's strategic role in the continent's transformation. The Africa Day 2025 Korea-Africa Business Forum, held in Seoul under the theme 'Building Bridges, Creating Opportunities,' brought together over 800 distinguished guests from government, business and civil society. The forum served as a high-level platform to deepen strategic dialogue, reaffirming a shared commitment to elevate Korea-Africa cooperation amid a rapidly evolving trade and investment landscape. Jointly organized by the African Group of Ambassadors in Korea, Herald Media Group and The Korea-Africa Foundation, the event featured policy discussions, business talks and cultural celebrations, providing a dynamic venue to explore economic and diplomatic engagement across Africa — a continent of 1.4 billion people and immense opportunity. Moroccan Ambassador Chafik Rachadi, who also serves as dean of the African Group of Ambassadors in Korea, emphasized Africa's evolution from a continent of untapped promise to one of decisive action and opportunity while welcoming Korea's growing engagement. 'The Republic of Korea's decision to place Africa more prominently within its Indo-Pacific Strategy and broader foreign policy priorities stands as a signal of trust, mutual respect, and a shared vision for a more interconnected and inclusive future,' he said while delivering his opening remarks. Choi Jin-young, CEO and president of Herald Media Group, reflected on the progress made since the forum's first edition last year, which coincided with Korea's inaugural summit with African nations and marked Africa Day, commemorating the founding of the Organization of African Unity on May 25, 1963. 'Last year, under the theme 'When African Possibilities Meet Korean Capabilities,' we explored the potential for cooperation and a shared vision for the future. Now, just one year later, we have gathered here again to realize the spirit and values of Ubuntu — I am what I am because of who we all are.' Choi emphasized the growing relevance of Africa in areas such as information and communication technology; artificial intelligence; environmental, social and governance; and digital transformation, underscoring the importance of deepening partnerships to leverage these trends Park Jong-won, deputy minister of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, emphasized Korea's expanding economic footprint in Africa, citing projects in Morocco, Nigeria, Tanzania and South Africa. 'If Korea's advanced technological capabilities are combined with Africa's potential as a promising future market, significant synergies will be created in overcoming global trade risks and achieving mutual growth.' Park reaffirmed Korea's commitment to follow-up efforts on 12 government-to-government memorandums of understanding signed between Korea and 11 African countries, alongside ongoing negotiations for Economic Partnership Agreements. A panel discussion, moderated by Tunisian Ambassador Kais Darragi, explored future cooperation through skills development and innovation. Kenya Ambassador Emmy Kipsoi noted the importance of tailored capacity-building efforts and mutual respect in green industrialization and economic partnerships: 'Africa offers many complementary advantages for Korea ... it's essential that we explore collaboration in areas like green industrialization.' Um Sung-yong, executive director of the Export-Import Bank of Korea's EDCF Operation Group, called for enhanced support for infrastructure, healthcare and education projects via the Economic Development Cooperation Fund. 'If there are Korean investors in Africa, our governments should discuss how EDCF can support these initiatives,' one delegate said. Panelists included Timothy Dickens, chairman of the South African Chamber of Commerce; C&G Limited CEO Gloria Ineza; and Yook Euna, executive president of Middle East and Africa Business at Heerim Architects and Planners. The second half of the forum celebrated Africa Day with a performance by the Africa Insight Champion Choir, a group of African and Korean musicians performing 'Champions,' symbolizing unity and celebration. Welcome remarks were delivered by Ambassador Kim Young-chae, president of The Korea-Africa Foundation, and AGA Dean Rachadi. Kim noted that Korea-Africa ties are being strengthened through increased diplomatic presence, growing trade and investment and vibrant people-to-people and cultural exchanges. Ambassador Kung Ki-hong, special envoy for public diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, gave a congratulatory address. In his special remarks, Jeonbuk State Governor Kim Kwan-young emphasized the importance of subnational cooperation. 'The province regards Africa as a future partner for growth, and I believe that exchanges between local governments should be as active and prioritized as those between nations.' A standout highlight of the event was the vibrant fashion show, where diplomats and representatives from 13 African nations and Korea walked the runway, embodying cultural pride, unity and mutual respect. The showcase celebrated the rich textile heritage and diverse cultural identity of the African continent. Following the show, guests were treated to a festive banquet featuring hotel-prepared dishes and authentic African delicacies crafted by the spouses of ambassadors, a gesture of hospitality that underscored the spirit of community and cross-cultural exchange. The list of ambassadors from African countries who attended the Africa Day 2025 Korea-Africa Business Forum includes Amb. of Morocco Chafik Rachadi, Amb. of Kenya Emmy Jerono Kipsoi, Amb. of Angola Edgar Gaspar Martins, Amb. of Tanzania Togolani Edriss Mavura, Amb. of Egypt Khaled Abdel Rahman, Amb. of Senegal Abdou Salam Diallo, Amb. of Ethiopia Dessie Dalkie Dukamo, Amb. of Sudan Amira Agarib, Amb. of Zambia Andrew Banda, Amb. of Rwanda Bakuramutsa Nkubito Manzi, Amb. of Tunisia Kais Darragi, Amb. of South Africa Sindiswa Mququ, Amb. of Gabon Landry Mboumba, Amb. of Sierra Leone Paul Sobba Massaquoi, Amb. of Cote d'Ivoire Allou Wanyou Eugene Biti. Ghana Embassy charge d'affaires Akwasi A. Adomako, Nigerian Embassy charge d'affaires Jaho-Herbert Inex Omamoke, D.R. Congo Embassy Minister Counsellor Jean-Remy Likpala Kalonda and Algerian Embassy attache Rabah Khelladi also attended.
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Korea Herald
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
[Africa Forum] Fashion show, delicacies spice up Africa Day celebrations in Seoul
Colorful and vibrant traditional clothes from African countries and Korea adorned the Africa Day 2025 Korea-Africa Business Forum on Wednesday, accompanied by a side event introducing African food and crafts. Taking part in the fashion show were ambassadors and representatives from 13 African countries -- Morocco, Tanzania, Sudan, Kenya, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, Tunisia, Sierra Leone, Angola, Ghana and South Africa. Korea-Africa Foundation President Kim Young-chae and his wife, Kim Hyun-joo, opened Wednesday's event. President Kim walked down the runway wearing the dapho, a short-sleeved Korean traditional garment worn by male scholars and officials during the late Goryeo (918-1392) and Joseon (1392-1910) eras. Kim's spouse walked alongside him wearing the dangui, worn for ceremonial occasions in the royal palaces during the Joseon era. Morocco was the first African country to take to the runway among the 13 African countries taking part in Wednesday's event. Moroccan Ambassador to Korea Chafik Rachadi showed off the jellaba, a long, flowing Moroccan traditional costume representing dignity, simplicity and national pride. Rachadi's wife, Leila Chelly, wore the caftan -- one of the most iconic symbols of Moroccan craftsmanship. Ambassadors from Tanzania and Kenya -- Togolani Mavura and Emmy Jerono Kipsoi – drew cheers from the audience as they danced along to the music while walking down the runway in their traditional costumes. Sudan showcased four different styles of its traditional clothing, the jalabiya worn by men and the thobe worn by women, featuring Sudanese Ambassador to Korea Amira Agarib. Two members of the DR Congo community in Korea also took part in Wednesday's fashion show, catching the audience's attention with their traditional clothing adorned in bright blues, yellows and reds -- colors featured in their national flag. The models also danced together on stage, eliciting cheers from the crowd. To represent Ghana's traditional clothing, Ghanaian TV personality Sam Okyere took to the stage wearing a blue and white kente -- Ghana's traditional clothing known for its vibrant colors and intricate patterns. After the African traditional clothing was showcased, Jeonbuk State Governor Kim Kwan-young showed off his hanbok while waving to the crowd as he walked down the runway. His walk was accompanied by the famous Korean folk song Arirang, adding to the traditional vibe evoked by his clothing. South African Ambassador to Korea Sindiswa Mququ and Herald Media Group CEO Choi Jin-young closed Wednesday's fashion show, wearing traditional costumes representing South Africa and Korea, respectively, to celebrate unity and friendship between Africa and Korea. Mququ was seen wearing Xhosa attire, one of South Africa's many colorful traditional garments. Thursday's forum also featured national dishes and delicacies prepared by 14 countries, from Morocco and Zambia to Cote d'Ivoire and Nigeria. Tunisia and Algeria also served traditional desserts to the hungry crowd. Seven African countries -- Rwanda, Sudan, Zambia, Sierra Leone, DR Congo, Tunisia and Angola -- set up booths displaying traditional crafts and accessories while Ghana had a booth featuring some of the country's most loved snacks.
Korea Herald
22-05-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
[Africa Forum] AGA dean highlights significance of Korea-Africa relations in era of disruption
Dean of African Group of Ambassadors says time has come to unlock the full potential of Africa-Korea partnership The Korea-Africa partnership is about more than an opportunity to explore shared dreams in a changing global environment, according to Moroccan Ambassador Chafik Rachadi, who serves as the dean of the African Group of Ambassadors. 'The Africa and Korea partnership of the 21st century speaks the language of collaboration, equity and long-term resilience. In this era of global disruption, fostering these robust and inclusive partnerships goes beyond economic and political cooperation,' said Rachadi in his opening remarks at the Africa Day 2025 Korea-Africa Business Forum on Wednesday. The forum at Grand Hyatt Seoul was co-hosted by Herald Media Group, the African Group of Ambassadors and the Korea-Africa Foundation. Though the cooperation between the two has yet to reach its full potential, the Moroccan ambassador believes that the next decade presents a chance to accomplish a dynamic framework grounded in mutual interest and strategic collaboration. 'Korea's leadership in innovation, digital technology, clean energy and smart infrastructure can meet Africa's growing demand for transformation and inclusive growth. At the same time, Africa's youthful demographics, natural resources and expanding markets represent unparalleled opportunities,' Rachadi said. 'The time has come to unlock the full potential of the Africa-Korea partnership,' he added. While explaining how the African continent has immeasurable potential, as well as geopolitical and economic significance across the globe, the AGA dean underlined the partnership with Korea as a sign of trust, mutual respect and a shared vision for an inclusive future. 'Let us seize this moment to chart a more ambitious course, grounded in mutual benefit, shared prosperity and a deep commitment to Africa's transformative potential,' he said.
![[Africa Forum] ‘Ubuntu spirit' guides Korea-Africa cooperation, says Herald CEO](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwimg.heraldcorp.com%2Fnews%2Fcms%2F2025%2F05%2F22%2Fnews-p.v1.20250522.a909715a9a224332bbc95b81da793457_T1.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
Korea Herald
22-05-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
[Africa Forum] ‘Ubuntu spirit' guides Korea-Africa cooperation, says Herald CEO
Choi Jin-young, president and CEO of Herald Media Group, expressed hopes for deeper cooperation between Korea and Africa during the Africa Day 2025 Korea-Africa Business Forum held in Seoul on Wednesday. 'Last year, for the first time since the Republic of Korea was founded in 1948, the country welcomed African heads of state and explored ways to strengthen our ties and build a shared vision for the future,' Choi said in his welcoming remarks at the forum, referring to the Korea-Africa summit held in June last year. "Just a year later, we are meeting again in the spirit of South Africa's 'Ubuntu' — I am because we are — to take the next step forward.' Choi highlighted that meaningful progress has already been made since last year's summit, particularly in supporting Korean businesses seeking opportunities in African countries. He pointed to increased investment in infrastructure and growing mutual exchanges as signs of such progress. 'With a population of 1.4 billion, Africa is a continent full of opportunity,' he said. 'As it takes on a leading role in global issues such as (information and communications technology, artificial intelligence), digital transformation, and (environmental, social and governance), Africa is emerging as a key driver of global growth. At this pivotal moment, Korea must strengthen its strategic partnership with Africa — and Herald will be there every step of the way,' he said.
