By Honorary Reporter Snigdha Verma from India

Photos = Korea.net, Snigdha Verma

My second year as an Honorary Reporter was filled with many experiences. The more time I spend in this program, the more I realize what I don't know about Korea. The following are my fondest memories of the program last year.

Seeing first lady Kim Jung-sook
Due to the pandemic, most Honorary Reporters abroad took part in the induction ceremony online but seeing first lady Kim Jung-sook attending in person made a huge impact. She discussed how Honorary Reporters and K-influencers are helping expand Korea's international footprint and make the nation closer to people around the world. 

What I loved about her is how she always quoted the works of Honorary Reporters and K-influencers, a clear indication that she saw our stuff regularly. Her messages were always motivating, and her physical presence at the ceremony last year certainly lifted the participants.

First lady Kim Jung-sook spoke to Honorary Reporters and K-influencers in 2020 and last year. (Korea.net)

Receiving appointment certificates and other stuff

I received my first certificate of appointment through email in 2020, but all Honorary Reporters and K-influencers last year saw their certificates in print form delivered straight to their homes. My work was honored as exemplary so I received a gift package of a calendar, tote bag, Honorary Reporter badge and pins, notepads, folder and passport holder.

I received a certificate of appointment and other goodies last year from the Honorary Reporter program.

To connect Honorary Reporters, hear their concerns and provide guidance, an online gathering was organized comprising two workshops conducted by Honorary Reporters, a meeting with the program's managers, Q&A and quizzes. The gathering helped us connect with Honorary Reporters outside of our circle, interact freely, ask questions and discuss doubts. 

Monthly missions
From June last year, all Honorary Reporters were given a monthly mission from Korea.net on projects like writing articles on Korean fashion, creating travel brochures, making a fall magazine and writing Hangeul calligraphy. Outstanding entries were displayed on Korea.net's main site and given a small reward. I was shortlisted for the first mission and took part in four of the five monthly missions. 

These were the monthly missions for June and September last year.