By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

The 'British Culture Village', a complex cultural and educational space with British residential, cultural, and commercial facilities, will be built in Myeongji International New Town in Gangseo-gu, Busan.

According to the Busan City on May 7, a four-party business agreement (MOU) was signed with the British Embassy in Korea, the Busan Jinhae Free Economic Zone Authority, the Royal Russell School Busan Campus Establishment Promotion Team, and the British Chamber of Commerce in Korea to create the 'British Cultural Village' in Busan City Hall.

The British Cultural Village is a complex cultural and educational space with British-style residential, cultural, and commercial facilities to be built within Myeongji International New City.

It will include residential facilities, cultural facilities such as British-style streets, and commercial facilities including medical services for foreigners, and will present a new urban model as a center for global cultural exchange and international education beyond just a residential complex for foreigners.

Following the signing of the agreement, the city will hold discussions on specific details such as future site consultations, and then establish a special purpose company (SPC) to open it before or after the opening of the Myeongji Global Campus in August 2028.

The agreement is aimed at the successful settlement of the Myeongji Global Campus and enhancement of the city's brand value, and is of great significance in that the two countries agree on the need to create a British Cultural Village.

The creation of the British Cultural Village is expected to improve the settlement conditions for foreigners, revitalize global cultural exchanges, and expand the international education base, further strengthening the city's global competitiveness.

In particular, it is expected to lay a practical foundation for growing a high-quality settlement community centered on Myeongji International New City and promoting the cultivation and settlement of international talent.

Busan City Mayor Park Hyung-joon said, “The creation of the British Cultural Village is not just a space, but a symbol of practical joint cooperation with the UK,” adding, “It will play a big role in creating a global settlement environment and strengthening the foundation for international education for future generations.”