Jung-gu, Seoul Launches “Global Supporters” Program with International Students

26 International Students from 10 Countries Selected at Dongguk University
Festival Guidance, Multicultural Mentoring, and Emergency Interpretation in Crisis Situations

On September 20, Jung-gu District in Seoul (Mayor Kim Gilsung) announced that it will operate the district’s first-ever “Global Supporters” program to enhance administrative convenience for foreign residents and tourists.

Kim Gilseong, Mayor of Jung-gu (center), is taking a commemorative photo at the Global Supporters Kickoff Ceremony. Provided by Jung-gu.

On September 17, Jung-gu held a launching ceremony for the 1st Global Supporters team in the district office's Planning Situation Room. The Global Supporters consist of 26 international students from Dongguk University, representing 10 different countries. Their official activities began with the ceremony.

This initiative is an example of collaboration between local government and academia, utilizing university human resources for district administration services. The district aims to provide accurate living information to foreign residents, reduce language barriers, and enhance its image as a global city.

The supporters were selected through a comprehensive evaluation of their language proficiency, commitment, and enthusiasm. Students of various nationalities, including China, Vietnam, France, and Russia, will serve as guides for foreign residents and tourists.

They will translate district newsletters and promotional materials, provide campus mentoring for children from multicultural families, and offer emergency interpretation during disasters or crisis situations. During large-scale autumn festivals such as “Jeongdong Night Walk” scheduled for October, they will operate foreigner information booths and serve as interpreters.

The district will manage supporters’ service records through the 1365 Volunteer System and plans to present a mayor’s commendation to outstanding participants in the first half of next year.

Mayor Kim Gilsung said, “Multilingual communication for foreign residents and tourists is a fundamental task for Jung-gu as a global city. I hope the Global Supporters will play a vital role in breaking down language barriers and elevating the quality of Jung-gu’s administration.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.