[October 31, 2024] Seoul to Participate in Development Cooperation Week to Highlight Urban Diplomacy Achievements
The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced on October 31 that it will participate in the "2024 Development Cooperation Week" promotional event, scheduled to be held from November 3 to 6 at Gwanghwamun Square’s Playground Area.
Development Cooperation Week is an annual event organized since 2010 by central government ministries including the Office for Government Policy Coordination and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with public institutions, to commemorate Korea’s membership in the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) celebrated on November 25 as Development Cooperation Day.
Seoul is the only local government participating in the event again this year, following its involvement last year.
Under the theme "S-ODA: Seoul Strikes," the city will promote its city-level international development cooperation projects and showcase its achievements. The promotional booth will operate from 1 PM to 5 PM on November 3, and from 10 AM to 5 PM from November 4 to 6 at the Playground Area in Gwanghwamun Square.
Seoul will also introduce its ‘Seoul ODA Challenge,’ launched this year, and unveil ‘SHINE,’ a new brand symbolizing cooperative development with overseas cities. The Seoul ODA Challenge transfers Seoul’s administrative expertise and urban management know-how to developing countries to help solve city problems. The first project sites selected are Lima in Peru, Phnom Penh in Cambodia, and Colombo in Sri Lanka, where Seoul shares its experience in culture, transportation, and resource recovery.
‘SHINE’ stands for ‘Seoul’s Heart for International Networks and Empowerment.’ The brand reflects Seoul’s commitment to shine as a central hub of international cooperation and symbolizes win-win cooperation with foreign cities. It will be used to promote Seoul’s ODA projects and enhance the city’s global standing.
The Seoul booth will feature interactive events introducing international cooperation projects, including traditional Korean games like tuho and quizzes related to Seoul’s international development cooperation.
Not only Seoul city officials but also the Seoul International Development Cooperation Agency (SUSA), the city’s dedicated organization for international development cooperation, will participate by introducing projects and answering questions. SUSA supports domestic private companies entering overseas markets by facilitating communication with local governments abroad.
Lee Hae-seon, Seoul’s Global City Policy Officer, said, "The demand for ODA support from overseas cities is steadily increasing based on Seoul’s accumulated know-how in solving urban problems. We hope this event will raise awareness of Seoul’s role globally and serve as a stepping stone for Seoul to leap into the world’s top five global cities."
Media Outlet: Newsis (https://www.newsis.com/view/?id=NISX20241030000273)
Reporter: Park Dae-ro
