By Honorary Reporter Imane Bouhnika from Algeria

The Korean Embassy in Algeria on May 26 hosted the launching ceremony for RefKA, a group of 10 Algerians who will promote the culture and initiatives of both countries. 

The term "RefKA," derived from the Arabic word "refqa" for companionship, symbolizes collaboration between Korea and Algeria, with the letters "K" and "A" representing the two nations.

Ambassador You Kijun hosted a luncheon and appointment ceremony for the members, who discussed promoting relations between Korea and Algeria and how Algerian youth can better understand Korean culture.

The ambassador said he was impressed with Algerian cuisine and cities and cited Algerian interest in Korean culture. He discussed RefKA's role in enhancing partnerships through publications, especially on social media.

I got to talk to fellow RefKA supporters from all over Algeria.

Asma Laidli, 21, a college student from Tipaza, said she felt honored to join RefKA and excited to contribute to spreading Korean culture in Algeria.

Ghada Malak Benyahia, 23, from Constantine said she liked working with creative and inspirational people and that she hopes the program lets members study Korean culture more in depth.

Zeinab Belouaze said, "I've been promoting Korean culture, food and language over the past four years. For the success of RefKA, I pledge to do my best to make my remaining ideas come true."

Major events organized by the embassy is another key part of RefKA. On June 27, I went to a networking meeting for alumni of the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) in Algiers. 

Attending this event were diplomats, cultural ambassadors, Algerian recipients of the GKS, members of the Korea International Cooperation Agency, ethnic Koreans in Algeria and fellow RefKA supporters.

RefKA offers a platform to explore the richness of Korean and Algerian culture and find contemporary connections.

msjeon22@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.