The Gyeonggi Human Resource Development Institute, in partnership with Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), will host a training program titled “Capacity Building for Gender Equality and Women’s Policy in Nigeria” for 14 Nigerian public officials from Oct. 12 to 25, 2025. This year marks the third year of the program, following the first local training in 2023 and the second invitation training in 2024.

The training focuses on addressing gender inequality in Nigerian society and strengthening gender-responsive policy capacity. Main learning areas include gender equality policy and education systems, women’s empowerment and leadership, and the practice and application of gender sensitivity, with Gyeonggi Province sharing its accumulated policy experience. The program aims to help Nigeria build a foundation for its own policy development while strengthening the partnership between the two countries.

In preparing the course, Gyeonggi Province reviewed international gender equality priorities and Nigeria’s local needs. Feedback from last year’s participants was reflected in the program to expand hands-on lectures and field visits. More time was also allocated for drafting action plans to improve practical applicability.

Training in the second year not only improved the policy capabilities of individuals and organizations, but also helped participants build stronger partnerships with one another. The program’s impact extended beyond short-term results. Participants stayed connected through messenger groups, strengthened inter-agency cooperation, and linked policy ideas to further collaboration, showing the potential for long-term exchange. The third year of training focuses on developing concrete and practical policy ideas built on these achievements.

Gyeonggi Human Resource Development Institute President Kim Jae-hoon stated, “As the third year of the program, this training is designed to help Nigerian officials develop concrete policy plans and practical alternatives built on the progress made so far,” adding, “We hope it brings meaningful changes to local education settings and administrative systems while deepening cooperation between our two countries.”

Since 2010, Gyeonggi Province and KOICA have worked together on global training programs for public officials from developing countries. Through courses on public administration, e-government, local autonomy, and women’s policy, the programs have shared Korea and Gyeonggi Province’s policy experiences and development models, contributing to institutional improvement and human resource capacity building in partner countries. Going forward, Gyeonggi Province and KOICA plan to expand customized training programs that reflect each country’s local needs, broaden the scope of international cooperation, and help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Since 2023, foreign children aged 0 to 5 attending daycare centers in the province have been provided with support of KRW 100,000 per month, ensuring that all children can grow in a stable and inclusive childcare environment.

Considering rising prices and childcare costs, the province decided to raise the monthly support amount by KRW 50,000 to ease the financial burden on foreign families.

Eligibility requirements remain unchanged. The support applies to registered foreign infants and toddlers aged 0 to 5 who attend daycare centers in the province and have resided in the province with their guardians for at least 90 days.

Guardians must submit a childcare support application and a certificate of alien registration to the daycare center, then make payments using the National Happiness Card to receive childcare assistance.

Gyeonggi Province Childcare Policy Director Ko Hyun-sook stated, “By expanding childcare support, we aim to reduce the burden on foreign parents and provide equal childcare opportunities so that every child can grow up healthy. We will continue working to close childcare gaps and ensure no child is left behind.”

Gyeonggi Province carried out a joint environmental cleanup campaign on Oct. 1 in the Wongok-dong Multicultural Village Special Zone in Ansan City. The campaign was conducted with Ansan City, the Capital Region Air Management Office, and local residents as part of the “Rebuilding Korea” initiative.

The event was held ahead of the Chuseok holidays and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit to improve local environments and eliminate illegal dumping.

“Rebuilding Korea” is a nationwide cleanup campaign where the central government, local governments, and residents work together to improve street environments and establish a culture of cleanliness. In Ansan, the large-scale cleanup focused on commercial areas and illegal dumping hotspots within the Multicultural Village Special Zone.

Around 80 participants, including staff from Gyeonggi Province’s Resource Recirculation Division, the Metropolitan Air Quality Management Office, Ansan City Hall, and the Wongok-dong Community Service Center, as well as local residents, joined the campaign and street cleanup. Main activities included collecting street litter, removing illegal advertisements, and running an awareness campaign against illegal dumping.

Participants gathered at 10:30 a.m. at the Wongok-dong Community Service Center, received cleaning equipment, and began area-based cleanup activities focused on the Multicultural Village Special Zone and Gwansan Wongok Park, both prone to illegal dumping.

The campaign aimed not only to create a cleaner street environment but also to encourage residents to take greater interest in their community and actively practice cleanliness. Gyeonggi Province plans to continue promoting public-participation cleanup campaigns in the future.

Gyeonggi Province Resource Recirculation Director Lee Yong-gyun stated, “Wongok-dong, where diverse cultures coexist, is a neighborhood frequently visited by foreigners. A clean street environment leaves a positive impression on visitors and plays a key role in improving the area’s appeal,” adding, “We hope this campaign helps eradicate illegal dumping and foster a culture of cleanliness.”

The Gender Violence Response Team (hereinafter referred to as the Response Team), jointly operated by Gyeonggi Province and the Gyeonggi Women & Family Foundation, held a launch ceremony on September 19 for the 2025 Interpretation Support Team. The initiative is designed to provide direct support to foreign victims of gender-based violence in the province.

The project was established to expand assistance for victimized foreigners who may otherwise be marginalized due to language and cultural barriers. It aims to provide reliable interpretation and translation services in sensitive and complex situations, including supporting police investigations, offering legal counseling, and accompanying victims during statements.

The Response Team currently operates with 21 interpreters and translators who were recruited last year. This year, the team has expanded its personnel and language coverage, strengthening its capacity through partnerships, including a business agreement with the Critical Foreign Language Education Promotion Center at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies (HUFS).

In particular, given the demographics of Gyeonggi Province—with large foreign resident populations concentrated in cities such as Ansan, Siheung, and Hwaseong—providing support only in common languages such as English and Chinese has proven insufficient. To tackle this issue, a total of 33 interpreters and translators are now active, covering 14 languages, including less commonly supported ones such as Lao and Hindi. This improvement has enabled the establishment of a Gyeonggi-tailored support system more responsive to the needs of local communities.

Capacity-building training was also conducted in conjunction with the launching ceremony, focusing on practical areas, including understanding gender-based violence, victim support, and procedures for investigative and legal assistance. The Response Team plans to continue providing regular training to enhance interpreters’ sensitivity to gender issues and strengthen their ability to respond effectively on site.

Lee Seong-eun, head of the Response Team, stated, “Many foreign victims still struggle to receive appropriate aid due to language barriers,” adding, “Through the operation of the Interpretation Support Team, we will build an environment where any victim can receive safe and prompt protection at any time.”

The Gyeonggi-do Provincial Institute for Lifelong Learning will host the K-Culture Festival, an integrated three-day cultural event featuring Korean music, cuisine, and traditional culture, on September 20, 21, and 27.

The festival will be held at the Gyeonggi Future Education Paju Campus (formerly Paju English Village). Each day will feature a unique theme—“K-Performance” on the 20th, “K-Pop” on the 21st, and “K-Food” on the 27th.

On September 20, the opening program will feature K-pop dance covers, breaking, choreographed dances, and a performance by the dance crew 1MILLION, known for their appearances on the dance reality program Street Woman Fighter. On September 21, the event will be celebrated by band Jaurim and K-pop group RESCENE, followed by a K-Pop quiz and performances from a wide range of genres, such as rock and OSTs.

September 27 will highlight the “K-Food” theme, offering a preview of Chuseok holiday traditions. Families can participate in large-scale food-making experiences such as “Giant Bibimbap” and “Long-Life Injeolmi,” while enjoying traditional gugak and pungmul performances. Visitors can also participate in traditional games like neolttwigi (a seesaw-jumping game) and jegichagi (a Korean version of hacky sack), ensuring fun for all generations.

Around 40 hands-on programs will also be available for free, including K-drama acting experiences, K-pop vocal practice, and traditional crafts, such as hanji (Korean paper) lantern-making. The festival will also feature stamp events linked to the Paju Unification Hill Tourist Zone, along with 12 types of traditional games, photo booth experiences, and other supplementary activities.

Oh Who-seok, President of the Gyeonggi-do Provincial Institute for Lifelong Learning, stated, “The Paju K-Culture Festival is a welcoming cultural event designed for all residents of Gyeonggi to enjoy and experience together,” adding, “We will continue to support this initiative so that it establishes itself as a new cultural tourist attraction in northern Gyeonggi.”

The 2025 Gyeonggi International Webtoon Fair, hosted by Gyeonggi Province and organized by the Gyeonggi Content Agency and the Korea International Exhibition Center (KINTEX), opened on September 18 at KINTEX in Goyang City.

Now in its seventh year, the fair is Korea’s largest exhibition dedicated to webtoons, uniquely combining opportunities for industrial exchange with engaging programs for the general public. It creates a seamless link between business-to-business (B2B) consultations with business-to-consumer (B2C) exhibitions, generating both a practical business platform for industry professionals and a space filled with immersive experiences for visitors.

The B2B sessions, held for two days from September 18 to 19, will bring together 102 domestic web comic companies and 97 buyers from Asia, the Americas, and Europe. Through one-on-one consultations, participants will discuss the overseas exports of webtoon IP, as well as cross-industry collaborations that leverage the significant expansion potential of web comic intellectual property.

Various domestic companies will participate, including Kakao Entertainment, Daon Creative, RS Media, KW Books, and C&C Revolution. Prominent global enterprises from both Korea and abroad, such as NAVER Webtoon, Crunchyroll, and Bilibili Comics, will also attend as buyers to conduct business consultations.

Of particular note, 26 companies will be participating from Japan alone—the same number of participants as last year, further proving that country’s high demand for Korean web comic-related services. In addition, 48 companies from 11 countries including Indonesia, Singapore, China, and the United States will take part as foreign buyers, reaffirming the fair’s reputation as an international business event for the web comics industry.

The B2C exhibition, running from September 19 to 21, features diverse programs and events to provide visitors with multifaceted content. Mac Agency is hosting a signing event with NightWitch, the artist behind “The World Without My Sister Who Everyone Loved,” while Gobooky Books will hold a signing event alongside an amusement park-themed photo zone for Danmi, the author of “Myonyang and Meongu.” Emerging technology firms such as Tooning, Brain Ventures, and Twigfarm are also presenting next-generation webtoon production solutions, including AI-based translation and localization, automation tools, and AI-assisted creation technologies.

On the main stage, visitors will be mesmerized by diverse programs, including the “Webtoon Golden Bell” quiz show, a “WBTI otaku personality test” featuring YouTube comic creators, a live drawing session by artist Kim Dong-ho, and a live band performance by artist Cho Kwang-jin. Popular web comic authors will also take the stage as speakers to share insights into their creative processes and industry experiences to inspire aspiring artists. Scheduled speakers include Jindol (Jindol Hidi Manhwa), Hansanleega (Trauma Center: Golden Hour), and Ori (Knife in Her Heart).

Concurrently, conferences will be held to accommodate both industry professionals and the general audience. Beginning at 2 p.m. on September 19, a keynote speech titled “Web Comics Created by AI, Stories Created by Humans” will be followed by a talk concert on “The Future of Advanced Technology and Web Comic IP Expansion.” These programs will feature in-depth discussions on emerging trends surrounding the web comic industry and the potential of its IP expansion.

Permanent spaces, such as Webtoon Ground, Webtoon Street, and the Collabo Cafe, will allow visitors to enjoy a continuous stream of entertainment in a relaxed atmosphere. The exhibition also features on-site interactive events across the venue, including a stamp tour and social media check-in challenges, with participants eligible for a wide range of sponsor-provided gifts and souvenirs, such as CLIP STUDIO PAINT licenses.

This year’s fair has placed particular emphasis on experiential exhibits that reflect recent trends, offering programs that actively encourage visitor participation and immersion. At the Collabo Cafe, themed drinks and interactive content tied to popular works—such as “The Ruler of the Land,” “Death Is the Only Ending for the Villainess,” and “This Life’s Universal Superstar”—will provide visitors with unique opportunities to engage directly with characters from the works.

Gyeonggi Province is introducing a customized visa program to attract foreign professionals in IT, caregiving, and other fields. Starting on Sep. 15, the province will implement the “Gyeonggi Provincial Visa Pilot Program” to ease labor shortages for businesses and help foreign residents settle more securely in the region.

The program allows foreign nationals to apply for a Specific Activities (E-7) visa with a recommendation letter issued in the governor’s name. It was designed in cooperation with the Ministry of Justice as a region-specific policy. The system is significant because businesses can more reliably hire the skilled workers they need while foreign nationals can secure a long-term stay in Korea.

The program covers 12 professional occupations, including 11 in advanced industries such as computer hardware, software, data, information security, and robotics (E-7-1), as well as 1 in caregiving (E-7-2). Gyeonggi Province plans to recommend up to 630 applicants by 2026.

Applications can be submitted online through Gyeonggi Civil Petition 24 (gg24.gg.go.kr). Applicants must provide documents proving eligibility, such as academic certificates, work histories, and employment contracts. After receiving a recommendation letter, they must apply for visa issuance or status change at an immigration office.

Detailed qualification requirements for each profession are available on the Gyeonggi Province website (gg.go.kr).

Heo Young-gil, Director of the Gyeonggi Province’s Immigrant Society Policy Division, stated, “We expect this program to strengthen competitiveness in advanced industries such as IT and stabilize the labor supply in caregiving,” adding, “We will continue to expand customized residency policies so foreign nationals and local communities can grow together.”

Gyeonggi Province and the Gyeonggido Business & Science Accelerator announced on Sep. 10 that they dispatched the “China K-Beauty Trade Mission” to Guangzhou and Chongqing. The mission held 200 meetings and secured contracts worth USD 5.82 million.

This trade mission was organized to expand export channels in China, the largest importer of Korean cosmetics.

On Sep. 2, the mission visited Guangzhou, followed by Chongqing on Sep. 4, with 13 companies from Gyeonggi Province taking part. The companies met with 35 local buyers in Guangzhou and Chongqing for business consultations.

As a result, the mission recorded USD 18.13 million in export consultations through 200 meetings. Among these, 172 progressed toward contracts, producing USD 5.82 million in tangible results. Buyers who joined the meetings showed strong interest in K-Beauty products from Korea. As a result, three MOUs were signed on-site.

A representative from Selfycoslab Co., Ltd., based in Hwaseong, stated, “This was a meaningful experience that allowed us to gain insight into the Chinese market and build networks with key buyers,” adding, “The support program from Gyeonggi Province was a great help, and we hope to see continued support for local businesses.”

A representative of Hyunjin C&T Co., Ltd., a Gimpo-based company that manages the natural home-aesthetic brand Dermagarden, commented, “Local buyers showed great interest in product efficacy and brand story. They requested samples and even expressed intent to visit the factory,” continuing, “We see opportunities not only for OEM/ODM partnerships but also for expanding ties with distributors in Asia and America.”

A representative from Beauty in Asia Co., Ltd., a Guri-based manufacturer of mask packs, remarked, “The trade mission gave us an opportunity to hold in-depth discussions with local buyers about product competitiveness and distribution potential,” noting, “It confirmed real possibilities for export growth.”

Park Kyung-seo, Director of Gyeonggi Province’s International Trade Division, said, “Through this China K-Beauty Trade Mission, we secured additional market access for Gyeonggi companies in the largest K-Beauty market,” adding, “We hope exports by small and medium-sized enterprises in Gyeonggi will continue to expand in China.”

Gyeonggi Province also plans to dispatch more trade missions to Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Japan, and other global markets to help diversify exports for small and medium-sized enterprises.

The first-stage groups of the 2025 Gyeonggi Youth Climate Emissaries returned to Korea on Aug. 31 after completing their mission. Through this project, youth from Gyeonggi Province have the opportunity to participate in overseas volunteer service; a total of 117 youth took part. Beginning on Aug. 9, they were divided into groups of about 40 and carried out activities for three weeks in Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, and the Philippines.

In Kyrgyzstan, the envoys held climate campaigns, sports events, and cultural exchange programs. They also took part in local community events, receiving high praise.

On Aug. 27, they organized a tree-planting ceremony in Ashar Park to symbolize their volunteer efforts and the friendship between the two countries. A plaque was also unveiled to commemorate their work.

The ceremony was attended by Bishkek Mayor Junushaliev Aybek Zhanishbekovich and Kim Kwang-jae, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Kyrgyz Republic, who encouraged the participants.

The mayor stated, “Your volunteer work is a model case that contributes to strengthening ties between our countries,” adding, “It will play an important role in improving the environment and providing citizens with a more pleasant space.”

Ambassador Kim highlighted the significance of the project, saying, “The trees planted today will grow as a symbol of friendship and a bright future for both countries.” Reflecting the youth’s suggestions, the ambassador also asked the mayor to consider adopting Korea’s waste separation and air quality improvement policies, further underscoring the project’s impact.

Bishkek City Hall and the Korean Embassy also reported the event on their official channels, drawing positive local attention.

In Mongolia, the envoys carried out forest creation and environmental campaigns in Terelj National Park. Their activities emphasized the importance of forest preservation and raised awareness about the climate crisis. In the Philippines, they worked closely with the Department of Education in Sorsogon City to conduct mangrove forest protection classes and tree planting, strengthening environmental awareness among the younger generation.

In October, about 80 youth from the second group of the Gyeonggi Youth Climate Emissaries will be dispatched to Laos and Cambodia.

Jang Mi-ok, Director of International Cooperation Policy, remarked, “The dedication of youth from Gyeonggi Province in addressing the climate crisis across borders will remain a special memory and a valuable asset for local residents and students,” adding, “We will continue to support young people so they can grow into leaders in climate action.”

The Gyeonggi Free Economic Zone Authority (GGFEZ) announced that it hosted the “AI Seminar and Investment Briefing” on August 26 at the Conrad Hotel in Seoul, in collaboration with the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM) and The Korea Times, targeting U.S. companies.

At the briefing, the focus was on highlighting the characteristics and investment advantages of three key districts: the Poseung (BIX) District, Pyeongtaek City, as an eco-friendly future mobility production cluster; the Baegot District, Siheung City, which is being developed into a hub for land, sea, and air unmanned vehicles as well as a medical-bio cluster; and the Hyeondeok District, Pyeongtaek City, envisioned as a hydrogen economy city with a global residential environment.

In line with the shift toward a data-driven economy, the event also presented tailored investment approaches for each district, along with various incentives such as tariff, acquisition tax, and property tax reductions, as well as one-stop administrative support services for businesses.

The GGFEZ also introduced new project scales and development concepts in the cities of Goyang and Ansan as part of efforts to expand the designation of the free economic zone.

The event opened with a message from President Lee Jae-myung, delivered by Lee Kyu-yeon, Senior Presidential Secretary for Public Communication, and was attended by National Assemblyman Maeng Sung-kyu, Chair of the Land, Infrastructure and Transport Committee, as well as James Heller, Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Korea.

Notably, Ryu Young-sang, Chief Executive Officer of SK Telecom, and Victor Gustav Gao, Chief Communication Officer of the Carlyle Group, delivered keynote lectures on “Global AI Competition: Korea and the Technology-Driven Economy,” and also took part in a panel discussion on “AI in Industry: From Manufacturing, Finance, and Commerce to Semiconductors and Chatbots—Building a Sustainable AI Ecosystem.”