German-Korean Youth Forum visits Gimpo
Seminar on Korean Relations and Ecology at Aegibong Peace Eco Park
On September 6th, 2025, the Hanns Seidel Foundation accompanied a seminar by the German delegation from the German-Korean Youth Forum to the Aegibong Peace Eco Park in Gimpo. The seminar focused on North and South Korean relations, as well as the history and ecological circumstances of the border region.
During the bus ride to the Aegibong Peace Eco Park, Johanes Klausa introduced the seminar, and Dr. Seliger discussed recent developments in South Korea, covering infrastructure but also society and ecology. Environmental issues were highlighted, such as making natural structures, like lakes, more accessible to humans through the construction of pavements. Positive aspects of the environment, especially in the largely undisturbed DMZ, are, for example, the provision of sanctuaries for wildlife and, very importantly, birds. Another topic addressed was defectors from North Korea and their lives in South Korea.
Upon arrival at the park, the delegation had the opportunity to view the border region despite heavy rain, with the river serving as a natural boundary between the two countries, and the landmass of North Korea visible in the distance. Here, the German delegation had the first chance to ask Dr. Seliger questions about North Korea over coffee, enjoying the green landscape of the border zone. As the rain decreased, the landscape and a few buildings became more visible and could be seen up close through binoculars. The group also visited the Peace Eco Exhibition Hall, which featured galleries about Peace, Future, and Ecology.
On the return journey to Seoul, an extended Q&A session allowed participants to ask questions about North-South Korean relations, potential future developments in North Korea, and its relations with Russia. Other discussions included the topics of demographic changes and their possible implications for areas like the job market.
The Hanns Seidel Foundation, represented by Dr. Seliger, Dr. Choi, Ms. Dommitzsch, and Ms. Koch, was honored to participate in the seminar and to meet friends from the German-Korean Forum, especially Johannes Klausa and Muhong Lee. The exchange between experts like Dr. Seliger and young participants, who are eager to learn and will shape the future of society, is crucial for fostering new ideas and potential developments. Overall, the seminar was a success, providing an interactive platform for discussion across a wide range of topics.
