A declaration ceremony for the ‘K-Respect Campaign’ was held at 7:30 a.m. on the 17th at the National Assembly in Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, hosted by the ‘Sunfull (Good Comments) Foundation’ and the National Assembly Sunfull Committee (co-chairs: Democratic Party of Korea Moon Jin-seog, People Power Party Lee In-seon). The event, organized by Min Byung-chul, chairman of the Sunfull Foundation and distinguished professor at Chung-Ang University, was attended by ambassadors from six countries—Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and Italy—as well as lawmakers from both ruling and opposition parties, including Moon Jin-seog, Lee In-seon, People Power Party Song Seok-joon, and Democratic Party Jin Sung-jun.
Approximately 2.5 million foreigners reside in Korea. Chairman Min stated, “Despite their essential roles in industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, construction, and services, deep-rooted discrimination and prejudice against foreigners persist. Korea can only advance as a true global advanced nation when a culture of respecting diversity takes root.” According to a survey by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the percentage of South Koreans who acknowledged having prejudices based on foreigners’ race or nationality increased from 62.2% in 2019 to 67.4% in 2022.
The ambassadors also expressed support for the campaign’s purpose. Thani Sanglad, Thailand’s ambassador to Korea, said, “Institutional support is needed to ensure Thai workers can work with dignity.” Vu Ho, Vietnam’s ambassador to Korea, added, “We will continue this campaign to ensure Koreans are respected in Vietnam as well.” Kim Seong-woon, CEO of Geumjo Construction, a company employing foreign workers, stated, “The diligence and responsibility of foreign workers are a significant driving force for industrial development. Companies must also strive to create a respectful work environment for them.”
The ‘Sunfull Movement,’ initiated in 2007 under Chairman Min’s leadership, aims to resolve social conflicts caused by malicious comments. Since 2023, Chairman Min has promoted the ‘K-Respect Campaign’ with the belief that, “Just as Korean arts and culture spread globally, a culture of respecting foreigners should also expand.” In July, the 22nd National Assembly Sunfull Committee was launched.
Chairman Min announced, “The Sunfull Foundation and the National Assembly Sunfull Committee will continue educational and promotional activities to spread the values of respect and consideration among youth, workers, and the general public.”