By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) is accepting nominations for this year’s Seoul Honorary Citizenship program from Mar. 24 to Apr. 21, targeting foreign nationals who have helped improve Seoul’s global status in various fields, such as economy, culture, welfare, science, and AI.

Established in 1958, the Seoul Honorary Citizenship program expresses gratitude and respect to foreign dignitaries who have served to bridge Seoul and the world. This also includes everyday foreign residents who have contributed to the city’s development and quality of life. So far, a total of 950 foreigners from 100 countries have been bestowed honorary citizenship.

Seoul Honorary Citizenship candidates must have continuously resided in Seoul for at least three years (or five years cumulatively) as of the announcement date. Eligible individuals include those who have significantly improved Seoul’s reputation domestically or internationally, contributed to civic life and cultural activities, supported Seoul’s economic growth, or played a key role in advancing technology through science and related fields.

Past recipients have included ordinary residents who made Seoul shine in their own ways. Last year, recipients included Heinrich Andreas, a globally recognized nanoscientist and chair professor at Ewha Womans University, and Ruslan Kairambayev, an employee at the Kazakhstan Embassy who rescued citizens from a fire.

Nominations can be submitted by heads of public institutions (e.g., national agencies, local governments, corporations, associations) or through a petition signed by 30 or more Seoul citizens. For details, visit the official SMG website (https://www.seoul.go.kr/news/news_notice.do#view/431784).

Honorary citizens are invited to various events organized by Seoul and given opportunities to participate in municipal committees while also serving as global ambassadors representing Seoul.