By Honorary Reporter Seema Thomas from India

Illustrations and photos: Seema Thomas 

I joined Honorary Reporters last year, and my enriching experience has allowed me to leave my comfort zone and learn more about Korea through monthly missions.

Reading articles by others in the program and taking part in workshops have also helped me broaden my horizons. Winning the September mission last year as a member of a team with seven Honorary Reporters from the Philippines was my most memorable moment. 

The following are impressions of the program as described by my seven Philippine teammates.

Czainnah Gajito
I joined the Honorary Reporters community in 2020. I love sharing my experience with Korean culture with the world. A positive impact of the program on my life is the ability to write about my experiences, fascinations and discoveries about Korea. The posting of my first article on Korea.net is one of my fondest memories as an Honorary Reporter.

Katrina A. Noble
I joined Honorary Reporters and the K-influencer Academy in 2020. Both programs have helped me gain a greater understanding of globalization and Korean management. I also met Korean culture enthusiasts from all over the world. In addition, the program offers the opportunity to write articles in offering a bigger channel to showcase our works and thus help improve our countries' relations with Korea. Activities, missions and workshops train us to be more effective PR agents and communicators. My most memorable experience in the program was making the fall magazine.

Paeng Evangelista
As an Honorary Reporter for a year, I appreciate the opportunity to pursue my greatest passion in life -- Hallyu -- and its effect of uniting people worldwide through a love of Korea. The September mission was especially memorable for documenting our learning of Hangeul. Despite a range of backgrounds, languages and time zones, our team showed unity and cooperation to create an incredibly enjoyable experience. And winning the mission was the cherry on top.

Princess Mae Angelique Medina
I joined Honorary Reporters last year, and the biggest takeaways from the program have been discovering myself and making friends from all around the world. I've honed my skills for my career and life thanks to this training. I like doing interviews since they share inspiring stories of people. My interviews and collaborations with fellow Honorary Reporters are my fondest memories from the past year.

Riza P. Dizon
Reflecting on my first year as an Honorary Reporter, I have received a lot of perks. Aside from sharing my love and passion for Korea, I've also explored my writing potential. My articles being posted on a government-run website is what I consider a truly memorable achievement. I've enjoyed the Zoom workshops and virtual meetings. From meeting people who share the same passion to making friends, this community is so beneficial to me. Winning the September mission with my team was my most precious memory.

Rizza Joy Panganiban

I joined this community in 2021. The overwhelming excitement I feel whenever my articles get posted pushes me to explore Korean culture more, and has helped me polish my journalism skills. My most memorable moments were collaborating to make the fall magazine and winning the monthly mission award.

Shiena N. Lagartos 
My first year as an Honorary Reporter has flown by in the blink of an eye. Despite writing just a few articles, I was elated when they were posted on Korea.net. The program not only helped me understand more about Korean culture but also assisted in realizing my dream of writing articles. Meeting and interacting with other Honorary Reporters from around the world was a big step for me as an introvert. The workshops were a great learning experience. 

The induction ceremony with first lady Kim Jung Sook was undoubtedly the most memorable moment for me. I am also grateful to learn while enjoying what I do.

enny0611@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.