By Honorary Reporter Oshini Jayamuni from Sri Lanka
Photos = Oshini Jayamuni and Korea.net's YouTube channel

The Korean Culture and Information Service (KOCIS), an affiliate of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, on May 20 held an induction ceremony at MBC Golden Mouth Hall in Seoul for this year's incoming class of Honorary Reporters and K-influencers under the slogan "Harmony with K-culture." 

The induction ceremony for this year's incoming class of Honorary Reporters and K-influencers was held at MBC Golden Mouth Hall in Seoul.

The 12th class of Honorary Reporters comprised 4,834 members from 122 countries and the third of K-influencers 1,856 from 103 countries. The two-part event was livestreamed on Korea.net's YouTube channel, attracting 26,149 viewers worldwide.

I was a webinar participant this year along with others from around the world. The event organizers guided us in rehearsal and the live event. I prepared the Sri Lankan flag and took part in the connection check the day before the ceremony and the official rehearsal on the morning of the event.

The main rehearsal took place at 4 a.m. in my country. I was tired but had so much fun with laughing and excitement in the air. The hosts interacted with webinar attendees well enough to ease tension and create a lively and comfortable atmosphere. Right before the ceremony, many adjustments were made to every part of the program for ensure smooth execution.

Despite the time differences, everyone seemed excited and ready to welcome the new class of Hallyu ambassadors while showcasing items such as the traditional attire and national flags of everyone's countries.

Joining the ceremony through the webinar was even more fun thanks to fun activities such as a quiz show on Korean culture, drawing session featuring the adorable KOCIS mascot Kocnuni along with a Hangeul calligraphy writing session, awarding of certificates and photo event.

I took part in the ceremony as a webinar participant.

KOCIS Director Park Myeongsun, Director General Yi Chongyul, and Second Vice Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Cho Yong-man gave congratulatory messages. Illusionist Choi Hyo-won also wowed the audience with a show and participants at the event shared interesting stories about their experiences with Korea.

An array of performances and activities made the event so fun for everyone.

I sincerely thank Korea.net and everyone who made this event a success and for giving me this opportunity to feel closer to the live event. I learned so much in my first year as an Honorary Reporter, and taking part in the ceremony through the webinar inspired me to improve under Korea.net's guidance.

Being an Honorary Reporter or K-influencer offers opportunities to grow with a community of Hallyu lovers from around the world. I hope that everyone inspired by the ceremony comes together and creates "Harmony with K-culture."

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.