VANK (Voluntary Agency Network of Korea) has launched a global campaign to promote Hanbok Day on October 21, 2024, establishing a website to raise awareness about “World Hanbok Day.” The website, [https://hanbokday.prkorea.com], shares information about Hanbok Day, celebrated annually in various cities worldwide. The campaign aims to help the 7 million overseas Koreans introduce and celebrate Hanbok Day in their respective countries, promoting the beauty of Korea’s traditional attire globally.

Hanbok, known for its unique design and vibrant colors, is a significant symbol of Korean tradition and culture. Originally established in 1996 as “Hanbok Wearing Day,” it has evolved into “Hanbok Culture Week,” with celebrations across Korea. Now, Hanbok Day is spreading internationally, with cities like Tenafly, New Jersey, Aurora, Colorado, and São Paulo, Brazil, officially recognizing the day.

Despite its growing popularity, historical distortions around Hanbok persist, with attempts to misrepresent its origins. In response, VANK’s website aims to provide accurate information about Hanbok and support efforts to officially establish Hanbok Day worldwide. The site offers resources, examples, and communication platforms for those interested in celebrating Hanbok, while fostering appreciation for its cultural significance.

VANK will continue to work on projects that unite 7 million overseas Koreans, enhancing the global influence of Korean culture.

Overseas Koreans Exhibition Hall Opens in VANK Metaverse

Cyber Diplomacy Organization VANK utilizes the Metaverse ZEP platform, an extended virtual world, to showcase South Korea’s democratic and economic development to the world, and to introduce the contributions of the 7 million overseas Koreans around the world to their home country.

The newly built “Overseas Korean Exhibition Hall” at VANK is based on the theme of a great voyage with 7 million overseas Koreans around the world.
It is designed to inform the world of Korea’s development with the mindset that ‘we are Korea’ in a virtual realm where each overseas Korean transcends time and place, and to enhance Korea’s national brand in the world.

<Hall 1> “Overseas Koreans. Dedicated to the Homeland”
introduces the dedication of overseas Koreans to their homeland.

<Hall 2> “Proud Korea” introduces the dedication of overseas Koreans to their homeland.
South Korea has grown to become one of the world’s 10 largest economies in 2024, having been devastated by Japanese occupation and the Korean War.
Korea is the only one of the 80 or so countries that gained independence after World War II to achieve EU-level economic growth and democracy at the same time, and we showcase the country’s proud progress in just half a century, accomplishing what it took Western industrialized nations over 300 years to achieve.

<Hall 3> “Promoting Korean Development in Textbooks Around the World,” introduces what overseas Koreans can do to get Korean development listed in textbooks around the world.

<Hall 4> “Hidden Overseas Korean Heroes,” introduces the hidden heroes in the history of overseas Korean migration who can provide dreams and inspiration to the 7 million overseas Koreans who are scattered around the world to unite the power of the Korean diaspora and spread Korea’s influence globally.

Hallyu (Korean Wave) Website Launches

Cyber Diplomacy Organization VANK, together with Korea Culture Foundation (KCF), has built a Hallyu (Korean Wave) community website that can help 200 million Hallyu fans around the world – who like Korean drama series, movies and music – become Global Korea Ambassadors that promote Korea to the world.

In 2024, the number of Hallyu fans around the world has surpassed 200 million. Thanks to the Hallyu fever, there has been an increase in the number of people worldwide who like Korean drama series, movies, and music.

However, this does not directly lead to their interest in Korea itself. As such, VANK has created a Hallyu community website that introduces Korea to Hallyu fans around the world through Hallyu contents.

The website was designed to expand global interest in Hallyu to Korean history and culture, as well as to help people around the world know about Korea easily by coming across Korean cultural contents. The website is introducing Korean history and culture by showing parts of Korean drama series, movies and music in which the elements of Korean history and culture have appeared.

The website consists of the following four sections: K-DRAMA, K-POP, K-MOVIE, K-COMMUNITY.

It is about time the strategy for promoting the country is newly designed, so that Hallyu fans become ambassadors of Korea, surpassing the fact that the number of Hallyu fans worldwide has exceeded 200 million.

Thanks to the Hallyu fever, foreigners’ interest in Korea is on the rise, but in textbooks, encyclopedias, tourism publications and history books, information about Korean history and culture are distorted, not introduced properly, or outdated. It is necessary to use Hallyu so that correct information about Korea – which is not covered adequately in foreign publications – can be delivered to foreigners.

We hope that, by continuing to develop this website, 200 million Hallyu fans can know correctly about Korea.

The Development of Korea in the World Website Launches

The Voluntary Agency Network of Korea (VANK), in collaboration with the Overseas Koreans Agency, has launched a Korean-language website titled The Development of Korea in the World to highlight Korea’s political and economic advancements in a way that can be included in global textbooks. This initiative is currently being promoted to seven million overseas Koreans worldwide.

Since the launch of the Korean-language site (ourpride.prkorea.com) in early February 2024, VANK has received continuous requests from Korean language school teachers, leaders of Korean communities, and overseas Koreans to develop an English-language version. The demand stems from the need for English-language materials to introduce Korea’s development to global textbook publishers.

In response, VANK has established an English-language website to support overseas Koreans in their efforts to include Korea’s achievements in educational materials used in their respective countries.

VANK’s decision to create an English version was largely driven by the rising global interest in Korea, as evidenced by the surging popularity of the Korean Wave (Hallyu), which surpassed 200 million global fans in 2024. As international students increasingly learn about Korea through school textbooks and online sources, the need for accurate and comprehensive information has never been greater.

However, many textbooks around the world still present a limited perspective on Korea, often focusing on topics such as the Japanese occupation or the Korean War. Additionally, some contain inaccuracies or incomplete information about Korea. This narrow scope prevents students from gaining a well-rounded understanding of the country.

Given that textbooks and school curricula play a crucial role in shaping students’ perceptions, it is essential to correct misinformation and introduce new narratives that accurately reflect Korea’s progress and contributions.

Among the many significant aspects of Korea’s history, VANK has placed special emphasis on Korea’s development.

In the aftermath of the Korean War, Korea had a per capita GDP of just $67 and was heavily reliant on foreign aid. However, within just a few decades, it transformed into one of the world’s top ten economies, joining the OECD. As of 2022, Korea’s GDP reached $1.673 trillion, ranking 13th globally. Remarkably, Korea became the first country to transition from an aid recipient to an aid donor.

In addition to its economic achievements, Korea rapidly established a strong democratic system, a process that took Western societies centuries to accomplish. Notably, Korea has been recognized as a “full democracy” by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), achieving a level of democracy comparable to the European Union average.

The Overseas Koreans Agency, under Commissioner Lee Key-cheol, has prioritized promoting Korea’s development in global textbooks as a key policy initiative. This effort is particularly significant as it simultaneously strengthens the identity of overseas Koreans and supports the younger generation’s integration into mainstream society in their host countries.

Recognizing the impact of Korea’s development as a compelling subject, VANK aims to actively promote its inclusion in international educational materials through its new English website.

The website, The Development of Korea in the World, is structured into three key sections:
▶ Textbooks and Korea’s Development
▶ Examples of Korea’s Development in Foreign Textbooks
▶ Overseas Koreans in Korea’s Development

VANK plans to widely promote the site to Korean language school teachers, Korean community organizations, and young overseas Koreans. The ultimate goal is to empower the global Korean diaspora to advocate for the inclusion of Korea’s development in textbooks published in their respective countries.

🔗 English Website for The Development of Korea in the World

영어_홈

Meanwhile, VANK signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Overseas Koreans Agency on September 11, 2023. Since then, both organizations have been collaborating with overseas Korean communities to promote Korea’s history, culture, and development, aiming to strengthen their national identity and connections with their homeland.

The Voluntary Agency Network of Korea (VANK) has launched the “Global Kimchi Day” website to commemorate Kimchi Day, celebrated in cities worldwide on November 22.

🔗 Kimchi Day Promotional Website: http://kimchiday.prkorea.com/

Kimchi Day was officially designated as a national commemorative day in South Korea in 2020, making it the first case where a specific food was recognized as the basis for an official observance. The date, November 22, was chosen to symbolize the fact that each ingredient (1) in kimchi combines to provide more than 22 health benefits, including immune-boosting, antioxidant, anti-obesity, and anti-cancer effects.

Since its designation, Kimchi Day has been officially recognized in various countries and cities, beginning with California in August 2021. As of today, it has been adopted in four countries and 14 cities worldwide.

The international spread of Kimchi Day can be attributed to increased recognition of kimchi’s health benefits, particularly its immune-boosting properties, which gained attention during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the global rise of Hallyu (the Korean Wave) has contributed to a greater interest in Korean cuisine, further elevating kimchi’s popularity.

As awareness of kimchi continues to grow, more cities and countries have expressed interest in officially recognizing Kimchi Day. The establishment of Kimchi Day also signifies a broader effort to respect and celebrate the culture of Korean expatriates living abroad.

California was the first location outside Korea to establish Kimchi Day, with a Korean American legislator leading the initiative. In the UK, the Royal Borough of Kingston—which has the largest Korean community in Europe—recognized Kimchi Day as an opportunity to deepen cultural understanding of Korea.

This year’s celebration holds particular significance as it marks the 10th anniversary of “Kimjang Culture” being recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2013. Additionally, with Kimchi Day’s growing presence in the United States, a resolution to designate Kimchi Day at the federal level is expected to be adopted in the U.S. Congress on December 6, 2023.

To further expand global awareness of Kimchi Day, VANK has developed a dedicated website featuring three main sections:

📌 What is Kimchi Day?

Explains the significance of Kimchi Day and why it was designated on November 22.
Highlights the 2013 UNESCO recognition of Kimjang Culture.

📌 Global Kimchi Day Celebrations

Showcases how different countries and cities have recognized Kimchi Day.
Provides a brief history of efforts by Korean expatriates, organizations, and institutions to establish Kimchi Day worldwide.
Offers official proclamation texts as references for cities interested in adopting Kimchi Day.

📌 Health Benefits of Kimchi

Introduces key health benefits of kimchi in an accessible way to appeal to a broad audience.
Through this initiative, VANK aims to raise awareness of Kimchi Day as a celebration of Korean heritage and to encourage more cities and countries to recognize and embrace it as part of a global cultural exchange.

With 7.5 million Korean expatriates worldwide, VANK hopes to see international cooperation in expanding Kimchi Day’s recognition.

In a related effort, VANK signed a partnership agreement with the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT) on June 7, 2023. Under this agreement, both organizations will collaborate to:

— Promote the globalization of K-Food
— Enhance the global brand value of K-Food
— Support the Green Food Day campaign, encouraging sustainable, low-carbon dietary habits

As part of this initiative, VANK and aT are working together to promote Global Kimchi Day, further solidifying K-Food’s reputation worldwide.

With these efforts, VANK continues to advocate for Korea’s rich culinary heritage and strengthen global appreciation for kimchi.

Foreign Independence Activist Exhibition Hall Opens in VANK Metaverse

The Voluntary Agency Network of Korea (VANK), in collaboration with the Korea Culture Foundation, has launched a virtual exhibition on foreign independence activists who contributed to Korea’s liberation. The exhibition, hosted on the metaverse platform ZEP, aims to honor and reexamine the contributions of these individuals.

ZEP, one of Korea’s leading metaverse platforms, surpassed 6 million cumulative users and 1 million monthly active users as of July 2023. The platform enables users worldwide to engage in interactive experiences through mobile devices, tablets, and computers.

Long before the rise of the 21st-century Hallyu (Korean Wave), foreign independence activists became Korea’s first global allies. Recognizing Korea’s value and potential, they stood alongside Koreans in the fight against Japanese imperialism for Korea’s independence and global peace.

However, public interest in Korean history has declined, leading to a lack of awareness about these foreign activists. Meanwhile, Hallyu fans primarily focus on Korean pop culture, with little knowledge of the historical ties between their own countries and Korea’s independence movement.

Remembering the sacrifices of these foreign independence activists is essential to setting the historical record straight. It also serves as a foundation for global solidarity, fostering international cooperation to address contemporary issues.

By raising awareness of these activists, VANK aims to inspire both Koreans and Hallyu fans to engage with Korea’s history and culture, ultimately strengthening international cultural exchange. Just as Koreans and foreign independence activists joined forces a century ago, today’s global citizens can unite to build a better future.

VANK has carefully designed the exhibition space to ensure that visitors not only learn about foreign independence activists but also reflect on their own role in shaping the future. The exhibition consists of two main sections:

📌 Exhibition Hall
The Exhibition Hall introduces ten key foreign independence activists, including:

• William Alderman Linton
• Homer Hulbert
• Ernest Thomas Bethell
• George Lewis Shaw
• Frederick Arthur McKenzie
• Frank William Schofield
• Kaneko Fumiko
• Huse Tatsuji
• Du Junhui
• Zhe Boseng

Visitors can view photos, life spans, and official recognitions of these activists, with bilingual Korean and English card news providing further details on their contributions. Additional resources and links are also available for in-depth exploration.

📌 Experience Hall
The Experience Hall offers interactive activities that encourage visitors to actively participate in spreading awareness and engaging with history:

1️⃣ Take a commemorative photo with foreign independence activists
2️⃣ Watch educational videos on their contributions
3️⃣ Join petitions to honor their legacies
4️⃣ Write letters of gratitude to the activists
5️⃣ Draft advocacy letters addressing historical distortions, continuing their fight for justice

In addition to learning about Korea’s history and culture, visitors can engage in global discussions. Inspired by these activists, they can pinpoint contemporary issues requiring international cooperation and share their thoughts through a world map activity.

Through this virtual exhibition, VANK hopes to educate people both in Korea and abroad about the dedication of foreign independence activists. By carrying forward their spirit, visitors can contribute to building a more just and peaceful world.

VANK’s initiative serves as a reminder that history is not only about the past—it is also a guide for shaping a better future. Just as foreign independence activists once stood with Korea, today’s global citizens can unite to address the challenges of the 21st century.

VANK Japanese Website Launches

The Voluntary Agency Network of Korea (VANK) has launched a new website, “Let’s Learn About Korea in Japanese Classrooms!”, aimed at educating Japanese elementary, middle, and high school students about Korean history and culture that is omitted from their textbooks.

🔗 Visit the website

Currently, Japanese textbooks misrepresent Korea’s history and territory, such as falsely depicting Dokdo as “Takeshima,” claiming it is unlawfully occupied by Korea. In response, VANK has created this website in Japanese to provide students and teachers with accurate historical information.

VANK points out that the Japanese government has been distorting history through school textbooks, which not only fosters bias among students but also negatively impacts the future of Korea-Japan relations.

The website is structured into the following sections:

📌 “Why Study History?” – Explains the importance of learning history.
📌 “Stars of Korean History” – Introduces 5,000 years of Korean history, covering major dynasties such as Gojoseon, Goguryeo, Balhae, Silla, Baekje, Goryeo, Joseon, the anti-Japanese resistance era, and modern Korea’s economic and democratic development.
📌 “Correcting Japanese Textbooks” – Addresses distortions in Japanese textbooks regarding Korean history.
📌 “Hidden Korean History” – Highlights aspects of Korean history that are not covered in Japanese textbooks.
📌 “A Better Future” – Explores ways to improve Korea-Japan relations.

The website also features a section on “Korea’s Cultural Heritage Across Time”, showcasing historical treasures such as the Paleolithic hand axe, dolmens, the Goguryeo mural painting of an imaginary bird, the Baekje Gilt-bronze Incense Burner, Goryeo celadon, the world’s oldest metal-printed book Jikji, and Hangul, the Korean alphabet created by King Sejong.

Another key section, “Korea’s Maritime Heroes”, highlights historical figures who defended Korea’s seas, including:

— King Geunchogo
— King Gwanggaeto the Great
— King Munmu
— Admiral Yi Sun-sin
— Jang Bogo
— General Isabu
— General An Yong-bok
— The Jeju Haenyeo (women divers) who resisted Japanese economic exploitation during the colonial period

VANK emphasizes that the site aims to raise awareness among Japanese students and teachers about historical distortions in their textbooks. Many Japanese schoolbooks either misrepresent, downplay, or completely exclude key aspects of Korean history, including:

— Dokdo: Japan claims it as its territory despite it being historically and legally Korean land.
— Comfort Women Issue: Despite overwhelming survivor testimonies, the Japanese government denies its illegality and inhumanity.
— Forced Labor: The exploitation of Korean laborers is omitted, as seen in the cases of Sado Mine and Hashima Island (Gunkanjima), both registered as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
— Rising Sun Flag: Despite being a symbol of Japanese imperialism and wartime aggression, Japan continues to justify its use.
— Seikanron (Theory of Conquering Korea): A 19th-century justification for invasion that is resurfacing in the 21st century.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake, during which Japanese vigilante groups massacred Koreans. The website explains this event alongside Korea’s March 1st Independence Movement and the March 1st Declaration of Independence, demonstrating the Korean people’s resilience.

The site also criticizes the Japanese Ministry of Education’s curriculum guidelines, which reinforce distorted perspectives on Korea in school textbooks.

Japan did not mention Dokdo in its school textbooks before 2008. However, it has since intensified its territorial claims through education:

— July 14, 2008: The Japanese government officially included Dokdo as Japanese territory in middle school textbook guidelines.
— 2014: Both middle and high school textbooks described Dokdo as Japan’s “inherent territory” and falsely stated that Korea is “illegally occupying” it.
— 2017: The same claims were extended to elementary school textbooks.

These changes highlight Japan’s systematic efforts to rewrite history.

However, Japan’s Fundamental Law of Education states that education should “promote respect for other nations and contribute to international peace and development.” Thus, the Japanese government’s distortion of Korean history contradicts its own educational principles.

VANK hopes that this new website will serve as a valuable resource for Japanese students who are not given the opportunity to learn the truth about Korea’s history through their textbooks.

Dokdo Exhibition Hall Opens in VANK Metaverse

The Voluntary Agency Network of Korea (VANK) has launched a Metaverse Dokdo Exhibition Hall on the ZEP platform, a virtual world, to help Korean youth learn about Dokdo, correct widespread misinformation about the island, and promote its significance to the global community. This initiative aims to empower young Koreans to become modern-day Ahn Yong-bok figures, advocating for Dokdo’s rightful place as part of Korea.

Unlike traditional educational resources, the Metaverse Dokdo Exhibition Hall goes beyond simply providing historical knowledge. It focuses on equipping users with the skills to explain Dokdo’s significance to foreigners and to rectify inaccuracies found in international textbooks and websites. The platform also offers immersive experiences that convey what Dokdo means to Koreans.

One of the key strengths of VANK’s Metaverse Dokdo platform is that it provides access to those unable to visit Dokdo in person, such as students from elementary to high school across Korea and the 7.5 million overseas Koreans, including teachers and students at Korean heritage schools worldwide. Through this platform, they can develop the ability to explain, with historical, geographical, and legal accuracy, why Dokdo is an integral part of Korea.

The platform is divided into two main exhibition halls: Daehan Hall and Usan Hall, named after Dokdo’s two main peaks, Daehanbong and Usanbong. This naming underscores the historical continuity of Dokdo as Korean territory.

Located on the western islet of Dokdo, Daehan Hall consists of three themed exhibition areas designed to naturally introduce Dokdo’s significance as if explaining it to an international friend.

1. Five Messages About Dokdo for the World

This section conveys five key messages about Dokdo’s meaning:

Dokdo Korea – Dokdo is part of the Republic of Korea.
Dokdo Heart – Dokdo embodies the spirit of independence fighters.
Dokdo Peace – Dokdo represents peace in Asia.
Dokdo Light – Dokdo is a beacon for global change.
Dokdo Dream – Dokdo symbolizes the dreams of future generations.

2. “The Heart of Independence Fighters! Dokdo”

This section highlights the role of Korea’s independence fighters—Yu Gwan-sun, Yun Bong-gil, Ahn Jung-geun, and Ahn Chang-ho—who resisted Japanese imperialist aggression. It also emphasizes that today’s efforts to promote Dokdo’s rightful status are a continuation of the independence movement, making participants the independence activists of the 21st century.

3. “Guardians of Korea’s Maritime Territory”

This section showcases historical figures who defended Korea’s maritime sovereignty, including:

— Goguryeo’s King Gwanggaeto
— Baekje’s King Geunchogo
— Silla’s Generals Isabu and Kim Si-duk, Monk Hyecho, and Admiral Jang Bogo
— Goryeo’s King Wang Geon and scientist Choe Mu-seon
— Joseon’s Admiral Yi Sun-sin and civilian diplomat Ahn Yong-bok
— The Jeju Haenyeo (women divers) independence activists

Located on the eastern islet, Usan Hall is composed of four themed exhibition areas, offering a structured explanation of why Dokdo is historically, geographically, and legally part of Korea.

1. Dokdo Protection Activities

This section presents VANK’s two-decade-long efforts to correct inaccuracies about Dokdo and the East Sea in global textbooks, maps, and websites. It also provides concrete strategies for:

— Explaining Dokdo to foreigners unfamiliar with the issue.
— Distributing world maps with Dokdo correctly labeled.
— Correcting errors in international websites, textbooks, and maps.

2. “21st-Century Ahn Yong-bok”

This section introduces:

— The historical evidence proving Dokdo’s status as Korean territory.
— The various names Dokdo has been mistakenly called internationally.
— Japan’s territorial claims over Dokdo and Korea’s counterarguments.

It also organizes key historical records chronologically, helping students understand the issue comprehensively. Visitors are guided on how to use official sources when referencing Dokdo-related documents and images.

3. Dokdo Quiz with the Sea Lion (Gangchi)

This interactive section offers 100 bilingual (Korean-English) quiz questions about Dokdo and the East Sea. The quiz is designed as a fun and engaging way to learn about Dokdo, with the extinct Gangchi (Dokdo sea lion) acting as a guide.

4. Dokdo Resource Center

The final section provides a collection of educational videos in Korean and English for a quick and effective understanding of Dokdo. Content includes short clips like “Explaining Dokdo in One Minute” to enhance accessibility.

The Metaverse Dokdo Exhibition Hall has been named the “21st-Century Ahn Yong-bok School” to reflect its mission. Just as Ahn Yong-bok, a private citizen in the Joseon era, defended Dokdo without official government authority, this initiative encourages individuals today to take the lead in protecting and promoting Dokdo on the global stage.

21st Century Ahn Yong-bok Website Launches

The Cyber Diplomacy Organization VANK has launched a new educational website, “21st Century Ahn Yong-bok,” designed to counter Japan’s distortion of sovereignty over Dokdo and to empower Korean youth and overseas Koreans to grow into modern-day Ahn Yong-bok figures.

According to a report by The Yomiuri Shimbun on September 10, 2023, the Japanese government has allocated approximately 300 million yen (27 billion KRW) for the promotion of territorial claims over disputed areas, including Dokdo, the Senkaku Islands (known as Diaoyu Dao in China), and the southernmost four islands of the Kuril Islands. This budget will be used to conduct seminars for foreign audiences, refurbish territorial and sovereignty exhibition halls in Tokyo, and enhance external publicity activities.

The Japanese government also plans to regularly send emails to prominent international law professors to promote Japan’s claims over Dokdo and other territories. In its national exhibition halls, Japan continues to refer to Dokdo as “Takeshima”—the Japanese name for the island—and is promoting misleading videos that falsely claim, “Future generations will be able to visit.”

As Japan expands its distortion of Dokdo from middle and high school textbooks to national exhibition halls and international platforms, Korean youth and young adults must take on the mantle of modern-day Ahn Yong-bok, who protected Dokdo during the Joseon Dynasty, and actively respond to Japan’s global disinformation campaign.

To equip Korean youth and the global Korean diaspora with accurate knowledge about Dokdo, VANK has launched a comprehensive educational platform. The website provides:

• Basic information about Dokdo,
• Historical records of Dokdo,
• Recognition of Japan’s unilateral claims and their associated issues,
• Suggestions for youth activities to protect Dokdo in the future.

The site organizes key historical records of Dokdo by time period, ensuring students can systematically understand the island’s significance. It also offers access to original documents and images from sources in South Korea, Japan, the United States, and other countries, allowing students to cite official materials with accuracy.

In addition, VANK introduces various Dokdo-related resources, including other websites, content, and activities that students can utilize or participate in.

Website sections include:

• Introduction to Dokdo
• Dokdo in History
• Japan’s Claims: What’s the Issue?
• Creating a Future for Dokdo

Japan’s unilateral claims over Dokdo, an inherent part of Korean territory, are rooted in imperialist ambitions that have yet to be abandoned. These actions not only hinder the development of Korea-Japan relations but also damage Japan’s credibility in the international community.

VANK calls on the Japanese government to immediately retract its unjust territorial claims over Dokdo.

VANK is committed to promoting this website for use in schools, among youth, overseas Koreans, and Korean schools both domestically and abroad. The website will be continuously updated with new materials to support learning and advocacy.

Through this platform, VANK aims to help Korean youth and young adults move beyond emotional frustration and take practical action against Japan’s distorted claims. By responding to the spread of this misinformation in global textbooks, encyclopedias, and world maps, the next generation of Koreans will evolve into 21st-century Ahn Yong-bok figures who actively defend the sovereignty of Dokdo.

Hallyu Stars in Korean History Exhibition Hall Opens in VANK Metaverse

Cyber Diplomacy Organization VANK, in collaboration with the Korea Culture Foundation, has launched a “Hallyu Stars in Korean History” exhibition hall in the metaverse, utilizing the ZEP platform. This innovative exhibition hall aims to spotlight Korean cultural heritage and historical figures as Hallyu stars, expanding the global appeal of Korean culture beyond K-pop and K-drama.

ZEP, a leading metaverse platform in Korea, boasts over 6 million cumulative users and 1 million monthly active users (MAU) as of July 2023. Accessible via mobile, tablet, and computer, it enables seamless interaction from anywhere in the world.

The Hallyu wave, which includes K-pop, K-drama, and K-movies, has taken the world by storm, with global fans exceeding 170 million. However, foreign interest in Hallyu has primarily focused on pop culture. There is a pressing need to extend this interest into Korea’s rich and illustrious history.

It is essential to inform the world that Hallyu stars existed throughout Korea’s history, from the ancient Gojoseon and Goguryeo kingdoms to the Joseon dynasty and even the resistance during the Japanese occupation. By utilizing a metaverse platform, VANK aims to broaden the Hallyu wave to include historical and cultural heritage, thus enhancing Korea’s national brand globally.

The “Hallyu Stars in Korean History” exhibition consists of four main sections, each dedicated to different historical periods. Just as modern-day Hallyu stars like BTS and BLACKPINK have elevated Korea’s international standing, this exhibition introduces cultural heritage and historical figures from Korea’s past who similarly contributed to the nation’s glory.

The exterior design of the exhibition hall has been inspired by Seokjojeon, the Western-style palace built during the reign of Emperor Gojong, with the cooperation of the Cultural Heritage Administration. This design symbolizes Gojong’s active modernization efforts during the late Joseon Dynasty.

The four exhibition halls are as follows:

1. Prehistoric and Gojoseon Exhibition: Featuring relics such as hand axes, dolmens, and the Danyeosemunjing, all chosen as Hallyu stars.
2. Three Kingdoms and Unified Silla Exhibition: Showcasing the Imwonjo, the Gema Warrior, the Golden Gilt Bronze Incense Burner, and the Great King Muryeong’s tomb, along with notable figures like Jang Bogo and Seongdeok the Great.
3. Goryeo Dynasty Exhibition: Featuring treasures like the Tripitaka Koreana, Goryeo celadon, Jikji, and Goryeo naval artillery as Hallyu stars.
4. Joseon Dynasty and Korean Independence Movement Exhibition: Highlighting important historical items such as the Hunilgangri Yeokdae Gukdo Map, the Korean script Hangul, the Geumgangjeondo, and figures such as King Sejong the Great, Ahn Changho, and the independence activists of the March 1st Movement.

One key highlight of the exhibition is Dr. Homer Hulbert, Korea’s first “foreign ambassador of Korean culture,” who is also featured as a Hallyu star. Dr. Hulbert, who came to Korea in 1886 as a teacher, played a vital role in introducing Korean history and culture to the world through 20 books and over 300 papers. He also authored the first Korean language textbook and translated the preface of the Hunminjeongeum (the Korean script) into English, promoting it globally.

Visitors to each of the four halls will encounter interactive quizzes related to Korea’s historical Hallyu stars. For example, at the entrance to the Goryeo exhibition, visitors will be asked, “What is the oldest surviving metal-printed book in the world, printed in 1377 at Heungdeoksa Temple in Cheongju?” The answer, “Jikji,” must be provided to proceed. This highlights how Jikji, printed 78 years before Gutenberg’s Bible, is an essential part of global heritage and a key historical Hallyu star.

VANK hopes that the “Hallyu Stars in Korean History Metaverse Exhibition” will become a platform for spreading awareness of Korea’s great cultural heritage and historical figures. To further promote this initiative, VANK will host the “Find the Hallyu Stars in Our History!” event continuously.

Through this exhibition and ongoing campaigns, VANK aims to unearth hidden historical Hallyu stars from Korea’s 5,000-year history and share them with the global Hallyu fanbase of 170 million, as well as with people around the world. This will not only showcase K-pop and K-drama but also illuminate Korea’s deep and brilliant history and culture on the global stage.

Overseas Koreans Website Launches

The global diaspora of Koreans, or overseas Koreans, is estimated to number approximately 7.5 million, which constitutes about 15% of South Korea’s total population. Despite this substantial number, many citizens still do not fully appreciate the significance of overseas Koreans and their contributions, and there is a lack of content that effectively communicates this importance.

In response, VANK has established an online root education site aimed at properly educating people about the history of Korean immigration abroad.

Overseas Koreans Root Education Site
prkorea.com/all-koreans

The newly launched site serves as a space to learn about the origins of Korean immigration, the struggles faced by overseas Koreans, and the ongoing legacy of their experiences. The site aims to educate users on the history of Korean migration and the historical events that have shaped the lives of Koreans living abroad.

The Definitions section provides clear explanations of terms such as “overseas Koreans,” “overseas nationals,” and “foreign nationals of Korean descent,” addressing the confusion that often arises when using these various terms in different contexts.

The Immigration History section outlines the timeline of Korean immigration, beginning with the first recorded instance of Koreans living outside of the country in the 1860s. It highlights the mass migration that began in the mid-19th century, noting that while the history of Korean diaspora is relatively short compared to other ethnic groups, few have adapted to such a wide range of political and economic systems as the Korean people have.

The site is organized into two main sections: Korean Diaspora History by Continent and Additional Learning: Jewish People. The Korean Diaspora History by Continent section covers key countries in each of the five continents where Koreans have immigrated, documenting historical events, Korean organizations, independence activists, stories of the diaspora, key settlement areas, and notable figures.

For North and Central America, the site starts with the story of Korean migration to Hawaii, marking the beginning of Korea’s first official immigration project. This year marks the 120th anniversary of the Hawaii migration. The site also covers significant stories from the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Cuba, focusing on the hardships faced by Korean laborers in places like Mexico, who endured difficult working conditions but maintained their identities.

In South America, the site introduces lesser-known stories of Korean migration, beginning with Brazil, where the first official group migration occurred following the establishment of the Republic of Korea. The site also covers Chile and Peru, countries with relatively little interaction with South Korea.

The Asia section starts with the migration of Koreans to Manchuria and the Gando region in the 1860s. Due to the proximity and shared cultural similarities, there is a wealth of historical records related to Korean immigration in Asia.

In Europe, the site features stories of independence activists who fought for Korea’s independence abroad, as well as accounts of migrant workers and students. It also highlights significant Korean cultural heritage, including the discovery of important historical artifacts like the Oegyujanggak Uigwe and the contributions of scholar Park Byeong-seon in introducing Jikji.

The Oceania section covers the stories of countries that participated in the Korean War and the sacrifices made by veterans, without which the Republic of Korea may not exist today. It also includes the migration histories of current students and immigrants living in Oceania.

The Additional Learning: Jewish People section provides an overview of the Jewish people, who are considered leaders in building overseas ethnic networks. This section begins with a definition of the Jewish “ethnicity” and briefly covers their history of oppression.

VANK plans to promote this newly established online resource as a tool for identity and root education for overseas Koreans around the world. It aims to expand and improve the site with the active participation of overseas Koreans.

The site will be especially beneficial for young overseas Koreans, helping them understand the significance of their historical roots and fostering pride in their Korean identity as well as their global citizenship. With the recent passing of legislation in California requiring “Ethnic Studies” as a high school graduation requirement, and the increasing opportunities for Korean-American youth to learn about their history, this site is expected to play a crucial role in the root education process.

The History of Racism Against Asians Website Launches

Building on its previous efforts to address distorted perceptions of Korean history in global textbooks, encyclopedias, and maps, VANK is now taking on the challenge of changing global biases against Asians.

In light of ongoing racial discrimination and hate crimes against Asian communities across the United States, VANK has launched a new online educational platform titled “History of Discrimination and Hate Against Asians” to raise awareness and drive change.

The issue of racial discrimination and hate crimes against Asians remains a persistent problem in the United States. On Christmas Eve 2022, a man directed racial slurs at two Korean Americans in a California restaurant, an incident that shocked the public. Additionally, in 2022, Los Angeles saw a record number of 692 hate crimes, marking the highest annual figure to date. A report from the statistical analysis platform Crosstown revealed that hate crimes in the LA area have increased for nine consecutive years.

In response to this troubling trend, the White House announced in January 2023 that the U.S. government would strengthen its efforts to address hate crimes against Asians. The White House noted that, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, hate crimes targeting Asians increased significantly, rising by 73% in 2020 compared to 2019. The U.S. government has also emphasized that the Department of Justice and the Department of Education are working to improve educational initiatives in schools to prevent such crimes. They have also created a website with information on how to report and respond to hate crimes, available in 24 languages, including Korean.

However, anti-Asian racism is not limited to the United States. Discrimination against Asians has also been prevalent in Europe, Canada, and Australia, with the pandemic being used as a justification for openly racist behavior. Incidents of random violence on the streets, as well as cases of unfair dismissals and forced school transfers, have been reported. VANK believes that South Korea must take a more active role in addressing these global issues, as Koreans could also become targets of these hate crimes.

One key question is why hate crimes against Asians have surged worldwide. A major factor is the unjust portrayal of Asians as the source of the pandemic and the spreaders of the virus.

In response to this alarming rise in anti-Asian hate, VANK has launched a global campaign to actively address this issue. To this end, VANK has established an online educational platform designed to educate the public about the history of discrimination and hate against Asians.

The exhibition on the platform highlights that the rise in hate crimes against Asians is not a temporary phenomenon caused by the pandemic, but rather a deep-rooted issue with historical roots. VANK plans to promote this online learning platform to teachers involved in multicultural and global citizenship education at elementary, middle, and high schools across the country. Additionally, an English version of the site will be made available to a global audience.

Through this initiative, VANK aims to create public awareness about the roots of anti-Asian hate and discrimination, and foster discussions about how to address these issues effectively. The campaign will also seek to unite Asian communities worldwide to combat this hate and build a stronger, more informed global movement for change.

Taekwondo, The Martial Art for Everyone Website Launches

VANK has launched a new website, Taekwondo, the Martial Art for Everyone, aimed at promoting Korean history and culture through the global appeal of Taekwondo. The site is designed to reach Taekwondo practitioners worldwide, offering an introduction to the martial art and its deep cultural and historical roots in Korea.

http://taekwondo.prkorea.com

Taekwondo, now an official Olympic sport, boasts over 100 million practitioners across the globe. Just as K-pop and K-drama have drawn over 150 million international fans, Taekwondo has played a significant role in spreading the influence of the Korean Wave, contributing to the worldwide popularity of Korean culture.

VANK views the growing global interest in Korean culture, amplified by pop culture and Taekwondo, as a powerful tool for promoting Korean history and heritage. The newly launched site is expected to be a key platform in sharing the spiritual and ethical values of Taekwondo, which emphasize not only physical strength but also moral integrity and life lessons. This broader perspective of Taekwondo as a discipline rooted in life philosophy is something VANK hopes to communicate to a wider audience.

Through this initiative, VANK aims to turn the 100 million Taekwondo practitioners into ambassadors of Korean culture and history. The site provides a simple yet comprehensive overview of Taekwondo, its origins, its moral and philosophical underpinnings, and the cultural significance of Korea.

The website is divided into five main sections:

• Why Taekwondo?
• Let’s Taekwondo!
• Home of Taekwondo
• Bring Taekwondo to the World!
• About Us

In addition to the website, VANK has produced and distributed 8,000 large-scale world maps in both Korean and English, promoting Taekwondo. These maps, which are being provided to Taekwondo organizations globally, serve as educational tools to introduce Korean history and culture, fostering a new generation of global Korean ambassadors.

Just as VANK has used Taekwondo to promote Korean culture, it calls for greater national policy support to utilize Taekwondo schools and practitioners as platforms for global promotion of Korea’s rich history and traditions.

VANK believes that this global Taekwondo website will significantly contribute to informing practitioners—both new and experienced—about the history of Taekwondo and its foundational values. The site will help spread awareness about Korea’s culture and history, making Taekwondo not just a sport, but a global ambassador of Korean heritage.

Pure Korean Naming Service Launches

The Voluntary Agency Network of Korea (VANK), led by Director Park Ki-tae, in collaboration with social venture Impactus, headed by CEO Kim Bo-kyung, has launched “Ilhum”, a service that generates Korean names using purely native Korean words. The name “Ilhum” originates from the Yongbieocheonga, the first literary work written in Hunminjeongeum, the script created by King Sejong, and is an old Korean word meaning “name.”

Ilhum is designed for foreigners interested in Korean culture, allowing them to create meaningful Korean names based on their interests and personality. By accessing the Ilhum website (korean.im) via mobile or PC, users can receive a customized Korean name in less than three minutes.

To use the service, users answer ten simple questions, after which they receive three recommended Korean names tailored to their preferences. They can then select their favorite name, learn its meaning and pronunciation, and even share it directly on social media. Additionally, users can save their chosen name as a personalized name card with a photo, making it easy to use in various ways.

For many foreigners who are passionate about Hallyu or studying Korean, having a Korean name is an exciting prospect. However, choosing the right name can be challenging. Some may end up with generic or overused names, while others receive names picked randomly by friends. Ilhum addresses this issue by helping users find a name that truly reflects their personality and aspirations.

VANK’s Director Park Ki-tae emphasized the deeper significance of this service, stating, “With 170 million Hallyu fans worldwide, Korean pop culture serves as an entry point to interest in Korea. By giving people meaningful Korean names, we hope to deepen their understanding of Korea’s history and culture.” He added, “A name is an important part of personal identity. Just as foreigners can create meaningful Korean names, Koreans can also use native Korean names when choosing online aliases or secondary identities.”

Language carries history and culture, and names are a fundamental part of individual identity. It is important to use and preserve native Korean words meaningfully in everyday life. The increasing use of foreign words and slang has led to the fading of traditional Korean vocabulary, making it essential to protect and promote these linguistic treasures.

Native Korean names, in particular, are unique in that they carry profound meanings on their own, without the need for additional components. For example, “Ari” means “a beautiful person,” “Ruri” signifies “a person who accomplishes anything,” and “Dodam” represents “a healthy person.”

To further promote native Korean names, VANK and Impactus have launched the “Korean Name Ambassador” project. This initiative aims to introduce the beauty and significance of Korean names in the Hallyu era.

As part of this effort, a global campaign will be conducted, encouraging Korean language school teachers and young overseas Koreans to create and use native Korean names. In addition, a large-scale name creation campaign will be launched for Hallyu fans worldwide, further spreading the beauty of Korean language and culture across the globe.

Since its establishment in 1999, the Voluntary Agency Network of Korea (VANK) has been actively engaged in digital diplomacy to promote an accurate understanding of Korea worldwide. The organization has worked tirelessly to correct historical and cultural inaccuracies found in international search engines, websites, and textbooks.

In 2019, VANK began launching global petitions across various platforms, and in April 2021, it established a dedicated global petition platform to safeguard Korea’s history and culture.

The global popularity of Hallyu (the Korean Wave) has sparked increasing interest in Korea’s history and cultural heritage. With over 150 million Hallyu fans worldwide and a rapid rise in Korean language learners, there is a growing need for sustained campaigns to ensure accurate representation of Korea’s history and culture abroad. At the same time, domestic policies must be reinforced to preserve and promote Korean heritage effectively.

One such issue arose when China attempted to claim Korea’s kimchi as its own by promoting it as pao cai. During its investigations, VANK discovered that Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism had mistakenly used the term pao cai instead of kimchi in official documents.

VANK immediately raised concerns and persistently campaigned for corrections. As a result, several key institutions revised their references:

• The Korea Tourism Organization removed the mistranslation of kimchi as pao cai.
• EBS, Korea’s national educational broadcaster, corrected the misrepresentation of kimchi in its Chinese language study materials for the national college entrance exam.
• Errors in Korean history textbooks and educational materials published in China were rectified.
• Major Korean dictionary services on Naver and Daum removed the incorrect equivalence of kimchi with pao cai.

Beyond cultural heritage, VANK has also actively campaigned for national policy changes. One notable initiative involved advocating for the elevation of Dr. Homer Hulbert’s state honor from the third to the highest grade. Hulbert, a foreign independence activist, made significant contributions to Korea’s independence movement. By mobilizing public support and urging the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs to reconsider his recognition, VANK successfully raised awareness of his legacy.

To further promote public engagement, VANK has launched ‘Woollim’, a citizen-driven policy platform that allows Koreans to voice concerns, propose solutions, and contribute directly to shaping historical and cultural policies.

‘Woollim’ serves as both a policy development hub and a space for fostering historical and cultural awareness. It enables citizens to identify key issues, propose actionable solutions, and develop policies that reflect the collective will of the people.

▶ Visit the Woollim Platform: https://www.woollimkorea.net

Designed for ease of participation, ‘Woollim’ operates through a two-step process:

1. Issue Identification & Error Reporting – Users can highlight inaccuracies or problems in historical and cultural representation.
2. Policy Proposal – Submitted issues can be developed into concrete policy suggestions.

Through this platform, VANK aims to encourage broader public involvement, allowing individuals to transform their concerns into tangible policy changes.

‘Woollim’ consists of three main sections:

• ‘Beginning of Woollim’ (울림의 시작) – A space for identifying historical or cultural issues and reporting errors.
• ‘Core of Woollim’ (울림의 중심) – Where proposed issues evolve into concrete policy solutions.
• ‘Echo of Woollim’ (맞울림) – A section documenting cases where discussions have successfully led to policy implementation.

Currently, several petitions are active on the Woollim platform, including:

✅ Establishing a memorial hall for foreign independence activists
✅ Correcting the mistranslation of eomuk (fish cake) in English dictionaries
✅ Officially designating a “Jikji Day” in the national calendar

Additionally, the platform features a ‘Support’ function that allows users to endorse and amplify policy proposals.

VANK envisions ‘Woollim’ as a long-term initiative where individuals can actively participate in shaping Korea’s historical and cultural landscape.

Lee Da-bin, a VANK youth researcher who helped develop the platform, expressed hope for its impact:

“We want ‘Woollim’ to serve as a comprehensive and sustainable platform where various historical and cultural issues can be discussed and developed into policies. Our goal is to create a powerful ‘echo’ that drives real change—not alone, but together.”

Historically, while the Korean government and National Assembly have attempted to reflect youth voices in cultural and diplomatic policies, there have been few cases where young people’s ideas were directly incorporated into national policies.

Lee emphasized the role of ‘Woollim’ in bridging this gap:

“VANK has been at the forefront of correcting global misrepresentations of Korea, such as advocating for the use of ‘East Sea’ instead of ‘Sea of Japan.’ Now, through ‘Woollim,’ we hope to create a public discourse that ensures young people’s voices are reflected in national policies.”

The Great Wall Paradox Website Launches

VANK has launched a new English-language website, “The Great Wall Paradox,” to raise awareness about China’s historical distortion of the Great Wall of China.

http://greatwall.prkorea.com

The website is divided into three sections: ‘Searching for the Historical Truth,’ ‘Distortion in Progress,’ and ‘Campaigns.’

In the ‘Searching for the Historical Truth’ section, the site explores the original location of the Great Wall, the intentional extension of the wall, and the reasons behind these alterations. It also emphasizes why the distortion of the Great Wall’s history is a significant issue.

The site exposes China’s unfounded claims, such as the assertion that the Great Wall was originally 6,000 kilometers long and later extended to 21,196.18 kilometers, even suggesting that the wall stretched all the way to Pyongyang. It also warns that young people around the world are learning this distorted version of history in their textbooks, which includes the erroneous teaching that the histories of Goguryeo and Balhae are part of Chinese history.

The ‘Distortion in Progress’ section showcases educational materials that incorrectly depict the boundaries of the Great Wall. It also criticizes the broader issue of China’s cultural hegemony, including its ongoing efforts to distort history, assert claims over Korean heritage, and infringe upon the rights of China’s ethnic minorities.

This section also delves into a range of topics, including China’s distortion of the histories of Goguryeo and Balhae, the ‘Northeast Project,’ the denial of Korean traditional attire such as Hanbok and the Korean hat, the appropriation of Korean food culture (such as kimchi, ssam, and samgyetang), and the illegal distribution of Korean content. It highlights how China’s cultural imperialism extends even into popular media and gaming.

The site also vividly illustrates how the Great Wall is inaccurately represented in over 50 books published worldwide, using images, charts, and other visual aids.

In the ‘Campaigns’ section, VANK introduces various initiatives, including a letter to publishers responsible for distorting historical facts, global petitions and poster campaigns against China’s historical falsifications, and VANK’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness through media.

This section provides example letters to publishers who have misrepresented the Great Wall, breaking down the structure into introduction, body, and conclusion. It also displays VANK’s 17 global petitions and posters, grouped by theme.

VANK hopes that through this website, foreign audiences will become aware of China’s historical distortion of the Great Wall, recognize the severity of the issue, and join efforts with Koreans to address these inaccuracies in history textbooks worldwide.