By Honorary Reporter Isabelle Pia Sison from Philippines

Photos: Cheong Wa Dae

The Korean Culture and Information Service (KOCIS) on May 20 held an induction ceremony for this year's incoming class of Honorary Reporters and K-influencers to promote Korea abroad.

Starting things off was a Korean folk song performed by Nancy Castro, a Mexican student at Korea National University of the Arts, followed by an inspiring message from first lady Kim Jung-sook. The latter spoke to the two Honorary Reporters and two K-influencers attending the event in person about kimchi's growing prominence overseas.

"A single line of your article, a single photo you take, and a single scene from your video can and will deliver courage and hope to the world," the first lady said. "As messengers of hope, you will help the world communicate and unite."

Along with 19 other Honorary Reporters and 20 K-Influencers, I joined this ceremony via Zoom. Despite the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we still got to celebrate Korean culture at this event while showcasing our own cultures by dressing up in our traditional clothes and displaying our cultural items.

First lady Kim Jung-sook (center) on May 20 is surrounded by the two Honorary Reporters and two K-Influencers attending the induction ceremony in Seoul who wear the traditional clothes of their respective countries.

Now in my third year as an Honorary Reporter, I've grown in a community of passionate individuals from different backgrounds worldwide who share their ideas and perspectives of Korea. Receiving my undergraduate degree in Korea has helped me appreciate how interculturality is vital to the world, and being an Honorary Reporter allows me to continue communicating with people regardless of nationality.

Through the Korea.net family, I'm excited to become part of a greater purpose. In promoting Korea, Honorary Reporters can advocate the powerful message of "unity in diversity."

First lady Kim Jung-sook (center) on May 20 makes her third appearance at Korea.net's annual induction ceremony for Honorary Reporters and K-influencers in Seoul.

kalhong617@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.