By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

Kangdong University's Startup Education Innovation Center held an event titled "Regional Problem-Solving Project: Global Cultural Convergence and Design Thinking Approach" in the main auditorium on Oct. 29.

Laotian Ambassador to Korea Songkane Luangmuninthone delivered a special lecture on the topic of "Global Cooperation for Community Coexistence and Startup Innovation" as an invited speaker.

He presented examples of economic and startup cooperation between Laos and Korea, highlighting the impact of global cultural convergence on local startup innovation and suggesting ways to strengthen the global capabilities of young people and international students.

Following discussions and networking sessions, representatives from universities, local governments, related organizations, and workers discussed practical models for coexistence based on regional problem-solving and global cooperation.

The event was attended by Kangdong University President Seo Seok-hae, who also serves as Honorary Consul to Laos, faculty and staff, Laotian Ambassador Songkane Luangmuninthone, students, faculty, and representatives from Eumseong County and related local organizations.

Eumseong County, North Chungcheong Province, where Kangdong University is located, boasts the highest percentage of foreign residents in the country, at approximately 19%. The region's unique blend of multiculturalism and global collaboration is a key backdrop for this project.

President Seo Seok-hae of Kangdong University stated, "This event served as a platform for collaboration, enabling the university, the local community, and the global community to grow together."

He added, "Eumseong County, in particular, is a region where diverse cultures and global talent coexist. Leveraging this environment, Kangdong University will strive to become a leading global university focused on entrepreneurship and cultural convergence. Furthermore, as honorary consul to Laos, I will actively contribute to expanding sustainable exchange and cooperation between our two countries."

Lee Won-deok, Director of the SCOUT Innovation Center at Kangdong University, said, "The SCOUT Center is continuously pursuing creative entrepreneurship education and global cooperation projects that connect the region and the world. We hope this project will serve as an opportunity for young people and international students to grow into leaders of regional innovation."