22nd Next Generation Global Start-up & Trade School
Republic of Korea: A Proud Nation of Remarkable Growth
Welcome to the 22nd Next Generation Global Start-up & Trade School.
It is an honor to have you all here, and as the mayor of this region,
I warmly welcome you.
It is inspiring to see future global economic leaders
from around the world gathered here today.
I also extend my sincere gratitude to the organizing committee
and regional representatives who made this event possible.
Although the conditions in each of your countries may differ
and your perspectives on Korea may vary, one undeniable truth remains:
Korea, your proud homeland, has achieved remarkable
and unprecedented growth on the global stage.
Just 70 years ago, Korea was among the poorest countries in the world.
Today, Korea ranks sixth globally in per capita income
among nations with populations over 50 million.
Furthermore, when we think of the global influence of Hallyu and K-culture,
it is clear that Korea has transformed into a nation beyond imagination.
This strength will continue as Korea cements its place on the global stage.
As such, I am confident that each of you will play a vital role
in making Korea an even prouder homeland for future generations.
Achieving the “Third Opening” Together with All of You
Incheon is Korea’s second-largest economic powerhouse
and is rapidly advancing toward becoming one of the global top 10 cities.
It also serves as Korea’s foremost international gateway.
Incheon was the starting point of Korea’s diaspora,
with approximately 7.08 million overseas Koreans now spread across 193 countries.
In 1902, the first Korean immigrants departed from Incheon for Hawaii,
marking the beginning of Korea’s immigration history.
Today, this legacy continues through millions of overseas Koreans worldwide.
It is for this reason that the Overseas Koreans Agency was established in Incheon last year.
Now, we are on the brink of another transformative era.
Incheon is once again poised to be at the heart of monumental change.
The first opening of Korea’s modernization and industrialization
began in 1883 with the opening of Incheon Port.
The second opening occurred in 2001
with the launch of Incheon International Airport,
propelling Korea onto the global stage.
Just 30 years ago, the land where we are standing was beneath the sea,
and today, it has transformed into a bustling international city.
As Incheon strives to become a global top 10 city,
we are preparing for the third opening—
an era of transformation that will be achieved together with all of you.
The Next Generation of Global Leaders,
Shaping the Future of the Republic of Korea
The next generation of global leaders, fueled by youthful energy and ambition,
will light the path to Korea’s future.
I encourage you to join us in shaping Korea’s future alongside Incheon.
Let us not forget that our nation’s incredible growth
and development were made possible by the sacrifices
and hard work of the generations that came before us.
Now, it is your turn to lead Korea’s next chapter on the global stage.
The role of overseas Koreans will be crucial in this endeavor.
With the establishment of the Overseas Koreans Agency,
we are also preparing a Welcome Center, a Business Center,
an expansive Trade Center, and an Overseas Koreans Tower.
Incheon is the home base, the gathering place,
and the future for Koreans around the world.
During your time here, I hope you gain invaluable experiences,
strengthen your pride as Koreans, and leave with a sense of purpose.
May this event be both productive and rewarding for all of you.
Once again, welcome, and thank you.
