Seoul hosts diplomats from 60 countries to share support policies for foreign residents

Foreign ambassadors and diplomats, along with Seoul Metropolitan Government officials, pose for a photo during a New Year’s briefing in Seoul on Wednesday. Courtesy of the Seoul Metropolitan Government

The Seoul Metropolitan Government hosted diplomats from 60 countries on Wednesday for a New Year’s briefing on policies to support foreign residents and bolster international cooperation.

City officials said the gathering included 40 sitting ambassadors, representing nations such as the United Arab Emirates, Tanzania and New Zealand.

During the briefing, Seoul outlined a series of initiatives aimed at attracting highly skilled foreign talent and helping overseas residents settle more easily in the capital. Among the key programs highlighted was Medical Support for International Citizens, or MeSic, which offers medical interpretation services in 12 languages for foreign residents visiting hospitals across the city.

Officials also explained the city’s Foreign Honorary Citizen program, which recognizes non-Korean residents who have made significant contributions to Seoul’s social, economic or cultural development. The designation is intended to strengthen ties between the city and its growing international community.

In addition, Seoul shared examples of its international development cooperation projects, which aim to transfer the city’s policy experience and technical expertise to partner cities abroad. These projects focus on addressing common urban challenges that emerge during rapid urbanization, including climate change, transportation congestion and public safety.

Under the theme “What’s New in Life in Seoul This Year,” the city introduced several initiatives affecting daily life. These included a program allowing diners to choose multigrain rice at participating restaurants as part of efforts to promote healthier eating habits, and “The More Beautiful Wedding,” a project encouraging affordable and dignified wedding ceremonies using public facilities.

Seoul also announced plans to hold the 30th Seoul Friendship Festival, an annual event that brings together foreign residents, diplomatic missions and local citizens to celebrate cultural diversity through performances, food and exhibitions.

Kim Mi-sun, head of the urban diplomacy division at the Seoul Metropolitan Government, said the city is committed to ensuring that foreign residents can enjoy daily life in Seoul without unnecessary inconvenience.

“Seoul is providing not only policy support but also a wide range of cultural and artistic infrastructure so foreign residents can fully experience life in the city,” Kim said. “In 2026, we will continue to share our know-how and policies while further strengthening city-to-city diplomatic cooperation to uphold Seoul’s status as a global city.”

City officials said they plan to maintain close communication with diplomatic missions to expand cooperation in areas such as culture, innovation and sustainable urban development.