By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

Yeungnam University hosted the "2025 Global Saemaul Undong Forum" at the Cheonma Art Center on Nov. 28.

This year's forum, themed "Challenges and Directions for Global Sharing of the Saemaul Movement and Saemaul Studies," brought together experts and practitioners from around the world to share the development experiences of the Saemaul Movement and Saemaul Studies with the international community and present the university's future vision of nurturing talented individuals who will contribute to the advancement of human society.

The event was graced by the presence of Yeungnam University President Choi Oe-chul, Vice President for Business Strategy Lee Kyung-soo, and key diplomatic envoys, including Ethiopian Ambassador to Korea Dessie Dalkie Ducamo, Rwandan Ambassador to Korea Nkubito Manzi Bakuramutsa.

Following the opening ceremony, the first part of the keynote speech featured Professor Park Seung-woo of Yeungnam University (Director of GSDN) on the topic of "The Development and Implications of Saemaul Studies," presenting the process of systematizing Saemaul Studies and future research challenges.

In the second part of the keynote speech, Ethiopian Ambassador to Korea Dessie Dalkie Ducamo presented "Policy Cases Utilizing the Saemaul Movement for Ethiopian Development," introducing practical examples of how the Saemaul Movement has contributed to local regional development policies.

Yeungnam University President Choi Oe-chul emphasized, "The Saemaul Movement is a policy that has contributed to expanding humane living across eras and nations, and is highly regarded by the international community. Regardless of race, religion, gender, occupation, or residential location, everyone has the right to live with respect, and such an environment must be created. The Saemaul Movement is a development model that can effectively realize this Hongik Ingan spirit."