The 8th All Multicultural Festival

Multicultural families and beloved citizens, It is truly wonderful to see you all. 

I sincerely welcome each and every one of you. 

The autumn weather is absolutely beautiful. 

There are all kinds of festivals taking place throughout Korea, 

but today’s multicultural festival is truly unique, very special, and deeply meaningful.

Harmony in the Global City of Incheon

In this global era, the very fact that multicultural families from various countries 

have come together here in Incheon itself demonstrates the city’s stature. 

This is also a precious venue where all citizens of Incheon 

come together as one to build a better tomorrow.

Incheon, the Starting Point of Korean Emigration

As you may know, Incheon is an international city that represents the Republic of Korea. 

In 1902, Incheon was the starting point for overseas emigration from Korea. 

The very first group left for Hawaii. 

Now, just as Korean citizens live in 192 countries around the world, 

many foreign nationals have also made Korea their home.

The Rights of Proud Citizens of Incheon

Here in Incheon alone, there are more than 80,000 people 

from multicultural families among a population of 3 million. 

Every member of a multicultural family is a valued citizen of Incheon. 

Naturally, you have the same rights and 

the right to pursue happiness as any other Incheon citizen. 

That is why Incheon is actively promoting various multicultural policies.

As proud citizens of Incheon and residents of the Republic of Korea, 

you have the right to live happy lives. 

Incheon Metropolitan City will also fulfill its responsibilities to support you.

Creating a New Incheon Together

As Mayor, I will continue to do my best to create 

a new Incheon together with multicultural families.

Today, I hope we can all share our diverse cultures, 

enjoy a wide variety of foods together, and above all, 

make this a meaningful festival where we strengthen 

our bonds of friendship as citizens of Incheon.

I would like to thank Mayor Yoon Hwan of Gyeyang-gu, 

Superintendent Do Seong-hoon of the Incheon Metropolitan City Office of Education, 

and all of our city council and district council members for joining us today.

Let us all work together to make Incheon a proud city that represents the Republic of Korea.

I hope you will all continue to lead happy lives, and I will always be with you.