Seoul taps foreign honorary citizens as tech ambassadors
Major cities have long handed key-to-the-city honors to foreign dignitaries and prominent expats, often viewing the gesture as little more than a ceremonial nod to civic goodwill. But in Seoul, city officials are increasingly eager to turn these international residents into an active network of brand ambassadors and policy advisors. The Seoul Metropolitan Government hosted its third Honorary…
Seoul is expanding the use of honorary citizens from abroad as tech ambassadors and policy advisors, aiming to create an active network of international residents. The Seoul Metropolitan Government organized its third Honorary Citizen Networking Day at Coex in southern Seoul, coinciding with Smart Life Week 2026, the city's premier technology summit focused on artificial intelligence and urban innovation.
The event gathered 20 foreign honorary citizens and local officials, aligning with the summit's theme. Attendees explored cutting-edge AI and civic technology exhibits, participated in a roundtable discussion with city leaders, and toured the exhibition floor. The primary objectives were to showcase Seoul's digital vision to long-term foreign residents and gather their insights to improve municipal policies.
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- Seoul taps foreign honorary citizens as tech ambassadors koreatimes.co.kr
