The Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation (RMAF), in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in Seoul, led by Ambassador Theresa Dizon-De Vega, hosted the “Celebrating Greatness of Spirit in Korea” in celebration of the enduring impact of Ramon Magsaysay Awardees and to commemorate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and South Korea.
Held after successful editions in Pakistan, the Philippines, and India, the South Korea leg of is part of the “Greatness of Spirit Dialogues and Book Tour,” where Magsaysay Laureates and their organizations, diplomatic corps, and advocates gathered for meaningful conversations, knowledge exchange, and forging enduring impact.
“This is what brings us together today: a shared spirit that defies time and borders. A reunion not just of people, but of ideals, of innovation, of transformation. A reminder that in a world often divided, there are those who build bridges, leave trails of hope, and pave new paths for others,” former Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines and RMAF Board of Trustee Sec. Delia D. Albert remarked.
A Gathering of Magsaysay Laureates
RMAF President Susan B. Afan moderated the panel discussion and open forum with the Ramon Magsaysay Awardees and their representatives. In photo (L-R): Susan B. Afan (RMAF President), Ms. Woojung Song (daughter of Kim Im Soon), Mrs. KIM IM SOON, Mr. Hogwon Jang (son of 1962 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee CHANG CHUN-HA and Chairman, Jang Jun-ha Memorial Foundation), Ven. POMNYUN SUNIM, and Mr. KIM JONG-KI
One of the highlights of the visit was the Magsaysay Laureate Reunion, which convened Magsaysay Awardees and key figures in the spirit of unity, service, and transformative leadership. The gathering was led by former Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary and RMAF Trustee Sec. Delia Domingo Albert and underscored the continued relevance of the Magsaysay values across generations and borders.
“This gathering held in the season of spring here in South Korea, Seoul is not only a celebration of past achievements but a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of a principled leadership and selfless service,” reflected Ambassador Theresa Dizon-De Vega of the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in Seoul in her speech during the event.
Empowering the Youth through Dialogue
RMAF President Susan B. Afan, RMAF Trustee Sec. Delia D. Albert, 2019 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee KIM JONG-KI, The Blue Tree Foundation, and the Philippine Embassy led by Amb. Maria Theresa De Vega closes the youth dialogue with a group photo with the participants.
In collaboration with the Blue Tree Foundation, founded by 2019 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee Kim Jong-Ki, the Foundation held “Growing Together for a Better Asia: Promoting Youth Mental Health in the Digital Age,” a youth dialogue on mental health and online safety. The event tackled pressing challenges in the digital age, including cyberbullying, the mental health crisis, and the widening digital divide among young people. It served as a platform for students, educators, and youth advocates to voice concerns and share innovative solutions.
“Today, we find ourselves at a unique crossroads—where digital transformation is redefining how we learn, communicate, and connect. It has opened powerful new doors for growth and opportunity. But it has also brought with it serious challenges—especially for our youth. Mental health struggles, cyberbullying, digital harassment, misinformation, and a growing digital divide continue to affect young people across Asia, often in unseen but deeply painful ways,” RMAF President Susan B. Afan emphasized the urgent need for collective action to create safer, more inclusive digital spaces for the next generation.
Honoring Legacies through Site Visits
As part of the visit, RMAF also paid tribute to the legacies of South Korean Ramon Magsaysay Awardees through a series of meaningful site visits. The delegation, led by RMAF President Susan Afan, was welcomed by Kim Jong-Ki at The Blue Tree Foundation, where discussions highlighted sustained efforts in mental wellness and youth protection. The Foundation also visited Korean Legal Aid Center for Family Relations, founded by 1975 Laureate Dr. Lee Tai-Young, Korea’s first female lawyer and a trailblazer in family law reform and women’s rights. RMAF presented a copy of Greatness of Spirit: Stories of Love, Courage, and Service to Center President Bae-Hee Kwak, symbolizing the continued resonance of Dr. Lee’s legacy in the pursuit of justice and equality.
The final stop was at Saessakhoe (New Bud Society), founded by 1978 Laureate Yoon Suk-Joong, to donate copies of Great Men and Women: Children’s Storybook—aimed at inspiring young readers with real-life stories of courage and service. At Seoul Children’s Grand Park, the Foundation honored Yoon at his commemorative bust, recognizing his profound cultural contributions.
A Continuing Commitment to Asian Leadership and Solidarity
The “Greatness of Spirit Dialogues and Book Tour,” is more than a celebration; it is a testament to the enduring values of the Ramon Magsaysay Award—compassionate service, integrity, and courageous leadership. As the Philippines and South Korea mark 75 years of enduring friendship, the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation affirms its commitment to strengthening regional partnerships and supporting the inspiring work of its Laureates.