Opening Ceremony for the 

2024 Overseas Korean Youth Homeland Tour

A Homeland Tour Offering Valuable Opportunities for Life

Welcome to all the overseas Korean youth returning to their homeland. 

Congratulations on embarking on this meaningful homeland tour. 

I hope this experience not only enriches your lives 

but also contributes to the continued growth of the Republic of Korea. 

I also want to express my gratitude to the Commissioner 

of the Overseas Koreans Agency and everyone involved 

in making this wonderful event possible.

Although your personal experiences may vary, 

I hope this tour provides a shared opportunity to understand Korea, 

envision its future, and contemplate the role you will play in shaping it.

The History of Overseas Koreans Began with 120 Immigrants

Today, This History Spans 193 Countries and Connects over 7 Million Overseas Koreans

The Republic of Korea is a remarkable country 

that has achieved unprecedented growth and development. 

Recently, it was announced that South Korea ranks sixth in the world 

in per capita income among nations with populations exceeding 50 million. 

Militarily, we are now the fifth strongest country globally. 

In addition, K-pop, K-culture, and K-food are making waves worldwide.

Fifty or a hundred years ago, this would have been unimaginable.

It is important to understand and take pride in Korea’s incredible history. 

Many of you have likely heard stories of 

how your parents or grandparents lived as immigrants. 

The history of overseas Koreans began 122 years ago 

when the first 120 Korean immigrants left Incheon for Hawaii. 

Today, that legacy has grown into a global diaspora 

of more than 7 million Koreans in 193 countries.

Every time I travel abroad, I feel an immense sense of pride 

in the success of our overseas Koreans, 

especially when I see young people like you leading the way.

If you carry that pride forward, 

you will not only succeed but also contribute to the continued progress of Korea.

Join Forces to Help Korea Continue to Rise

Incheon is the driving force behind Korea’s growth and development. 

With a population exceeding 3 million, 

it is now the second-largest economic hub after Seoul. 

Incheon International Airport ranks fifth globally in passenger traffic, 

and the city is home to key industries such as semiconductors, 

leading Korea’s charge into the future. 

Just last year, the Overseas Koreans Agency was also established here in Incheon.

Together with its 3 million residents and 7 million overseas Koreans, 

Incheon will be a central hub for Korea’s future growth. 

I hope that as you reflect on this, you take pride in our homeland, the Republic of Korea, 

and commit to helping it continue its ascent as a global nation. 

In doing so, you will find personal fulfillment, and Korea will continue to flourish.

I hope this homeland tour becomes a joyful and meaningful experience for all of you. 

Whenever you visit Incheon, remember that you are always welcome. 

Once again, welcome and congratulations. Thank you.