Global Economic Times

Star Historian Choi Tae-sung and 2NE1’s Sandara Park Appointed as Honorary Ambassadors for the Overseas Koreans Agency (OKA): KO YONG-CHUL Reporter / Updated : 2026-06-04 16:07:07

[SEOUL] The Overseas Koreans Agency (OKA) has announced the appointment of beloved history educator Choi Tae-sung and iconic K-pop artist Sandara Park as its honorary ambassadors for 2026. The two prominent figures are expected to serve as vital bridges connecting the global Korean diaspora with their homeland.

Choi Tae-sung Extends His Tenure: "Erasing Prejudices Through History"
Choi Tae-sung, widely known by his affectionate nickname "Keunbyul Ssaem" (Big Star Teacher), will continue his journey as an ambassador for another year. Over the past year, Choi has been highly praised for his dedicated efforts in raising public awareness about the immigration history of overseas Koreans and their significant contributions to the motherland.

Upon his reappointment, Choi expressed a strong sense of mission, stating, "A deeper understanding of our history will help dissolve misunderstandings and prejudices surrounding overseas Koreans." He added with determination, "I will keep running forward until the day every citizen in Korea truly understands and appreciates our global Korean community."

Sandara Park Joins as New Ambassador: A Relatable Voice from the Diaspora
Joining the agency as a newly appointed ambassador is Sandara Park, a member of the legendary K-pop group 2NE1. Park brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to the role, having lived in the Philippines for 11 years before her debut, where she garnered immense love from the local public.

Drawing from her personal experience of chasing and achieving her dreams in a foreign land, Park shared her heartfelt vision. "Based on my own journey in a texturally unfamiliar environment, I want to listen closely to the diverse stories of overseas Koreans worldwide," she said. "I am fully committed to serving as a bridge that links Korea and the rest of the world together."

A Brighter Future for the Global Korean Community
The OKA expressed high expectations for the newly formed duo. The agency anticipates that Choi and Park will actively promote the multi-faceted roles of overseas Koreans—not only as cultural ambassadors of the Korean Wave (Hallyu) but also as expanders of Korea's economic territory and vital civilian diplomats.

With the combined expertise of Korea's representative history guide and the global influence of a K-pop icon, the OKA's new ambassador lineup is expected to significantly strengthen the bonds of solidarity between the diaspora and South Korea.