The World Korean Journalists Association (WKJA) is set to host a large-scale event from May 12th to 16th, encompassing Seoul, Incheon, and the Jeollanam-do province. This significant gathering will bring together Korean journalists from around the globe to discuss key South Korean presidential policies and explore the role and future of journalism.

Presidential Policy Debate to Focus on Issues Facing Overseas Koreans

A central highlight of the event will be the presidential policy debate scheduled for Tuesday, May 13th, from 3 PM to 5 PM KST at the Korea Press Center in Jung-gu, Seoul. Representatives from various political parties involved in the upcoming presidential election are expected to participate, engaging in in-depth discussions on policy directions concerning critical issues for the overseas Korean community.

Key agenda items for the debate include ▲Establishing an Overseas Korean Media Promotion Foundation to support overseas media outlets, ▲Measures to increase overseas Korean voter turnout, ▲Adjusting the age criteria for dual citizenship allowance, ▲Improving the application of the Military Service Act for overseas Koreans, ▲Strengthening protection policies for overseas Koreans, ▲Expanding domestic employment opportunities for children of overseas Koreans, and ▲Simplifying procedures for overseas property ownership and investment. The WKJA stated that "this forum will focus on practical and specific policy proposals," raising expectations for addressing long-standing concerns within the overseas Korean community.

Media Workshop to Explore Journalism's Role in the 'Post-Truth Era'

Prior to the policy debate, on Monday, May 12th, a media workshop will be held at the Incheon Songdo Welcome Center under the theme "The Age of Post-Truth: Responses and Challenges for Traditional Journalism." This workshop aims to reflect on the essence of journalism amidst a rapidly changing media landscape and to seek proactive response strategies, offering overseas journalists valuable learning opportunities.

The workshop program features lectures by experienced professionals, including investigative journalism (reporter Choi Byung-sung), fact-checking journalism (reporter Jung Jae-cheol), and YouTube journalism (Professor Lee Jong-myung), promising practical insights.

Notably, a special lecture on "Korea's Shrinking History" by Park Chan-hwa, Secretary-General of the 'Daehan Sarang' organization, will emphasize overcoming colonial historical perspectives and restoring a nationalistic view of history, providing attendees with a moment for profound reflection. Furthermore, Lee Sang-deok, Commissioner of the Overseas Koreans Agency, will deliver a lecture on "Establishment and Implementation of Overseas Korean Policies, and the Role of Overseas Media," aiming to enhance understanding of relevant policies and underscore the importance of overseas media.

Following the workshop, an opening dinner will be held with the participation of prominent figures from political and business circles, including Commissioner Lee Sang-deok, Kim Deok-ryong, Chairman of the World Federation of Korean Commerce and Industry Chambers, former National Assembly members Kim Seong-gon and Yang Chang-young, and Kim Hong-soo, Standing Advisor to the WKJA, fostering an environment for networking and collaboration.

Historical and Cultural Experiences and Southern Region Press Tour

The event extends beyond policy discussions and workshops to include diverse supplementary programs. On the morning of May 13th, participants will tour major attractions in Incheon and Ganghwa Island, visiting historical sites related to the overseas Korean diaspora, such as the National Hangeul Museum, the Korean Emigration History Museum, and the Ganghwa Anglican Church History Museum.

Subsequently, from May 14th to 16th, a press tour of the island regions of Mokpo and Sinan in Jeollanam-do will take place. This tour will offer opportunities to cover the natural beauty and unique cultural content of the southern region, including the Maritime Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Angel Bridge, Purple Island, the Bunjae Artpia Garden, Haenam (specifically Ha-ui Island), and Monde Mondo, promising enriching experiences and reporting opportunities for the attendees.

This large-scale event organized by the WKJA is anticipated to be a valuable occasion for Korean journalists worldwide to deliberate on the future of South Korea, redefine the role of journalism, and experience Korean history and culture firsthand. In particular, the presidential policy debate holds significant promise for addressing the long-standing aspirations of the overseas Korean community.