Seoul: Yonhap News Agency, South Korea's key newswire, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with a Seoul-based nonprofit organization working for cooperation with Africa for collaboration on cultural projects and awareness campaigns related to the region.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the signing ceremony took place at Yonhap's headquarters, led by Yonhap President and CEO Hwang Dae-il, and Choi Dong-hwan, president of Africa Insight. Under the MOU, Yonhap will produce media content on African cultural projects, such as the Seoul Africa Festival, organized by Africa Insight, as well as campaigns aimed at improving perceptions of Africa.
Africa Insight will provide Yonhap with information and news on the continent that it has gathered through its own activities. Hwang emphasized cultural exchanges based on mutual respect and trust as the driving force behind Korea's favorable perception in Africa, citing the popularity of K-pop, movies, dramas, K-beauty, and Korean food across the continent.
Choi stated that the cooperation between Yonhap and Africa Insight will significantly contribute to improving public perception about Africa and enhancing exchange capabilities. He highlighted Africa's invaluable human resources as a key aspect of the continent's emerging role as an indispensable partner.
Yonhap News and Africa Insight plan to co-host the Seoul Africa Festival Fashion Show with the African diplomatic corps in South Korea for a two-day run, starting Sept. 13. The fashion show will serve as the highlight of the festival, featuring Africa's traditional attire and unique creations by contemporary designers.
Launched in 2016, the Seoul Africa Festival is the largest African cultural and arts event in South Korea, celebrating its eighth edition this year.