Hallyu Leaders & Experts: In Conversation with Mr Kyung-won Kim

Deputy Director General, National Assembly of the Republic of Korea & Parliamentary Attaché to the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the UK

As part of our new Hallyu Leaders & Experts series, Hallyu Con and Ouri Insights are proud to spotlight influential voices shaping the global Korean Wave and its growing role in diplomacy, cultural exchange, and international cooperation.

This series champions the storytellers, policymakers, creatives and thought leaders whose work is advancing Korea’s global presence - while also exploring the deeper cultural forces behind Hallyu’s extraordinary rise. Each conversation offers a window into the intersections of culture, diplomacy, technology and soft power, with the goal of strengthening understanding between Korea and the wider world.

For this instalment, award-winning TEDx speaker and Hallyu Con co-founder, Lashai Ben Salmi, sat down with Mr Kyung-Won Kim, Parliamentary Attaché at the Embassy of the Republic of Korea and Deputy Director General of the National Assembly of Korea. His unique position bridges the Parlimentry relationship between the UK and Korea, while supporting the broader diplomatic partnership between the two nations.

A Journey Rooted in Public Service and Cross-Cultural Connection

During the interview, when Lashai invited Mr Kim to reflect on the beginnings of his diplomatic journey, he shared that the United Kingdom holds a personal and symbolic significance:

“The United Kingdom was the first country I ever visited abroad… I believe my return to the UK was some kind of destiny.”

He explained that his career in public service has been driven by the belief that strong bilateral relationships are built not only through policy, but through people, shared values and cultural understanding.

As he noted: “It is not easy for a nation to achieve democracy, economic success and cultural influence all at once, but both the UK and Korea have done so.”

Hallyu as a Bridge Between Nations

The conversation explored how cultural exchange, particularly through the Korean Wave, is reshaping international perceptions, diplomacy and even political engagement.

Mr Kim expressed this with striking clarity:

“Culture moves people. People move politicians. And politicians make diplomacy.”

He emphasised that Hallyu’s global impact has happened organically, driven by Korea’s artists, creatives and industries competing and succeeding on the world stage:

“Hallyu has grown on its own… just as the British Invasion was achieved by groups like The Beatles.”

Today, Hallyu is no longer a niche cultural phenomenon, but an integral part of everyday British life: “There are set to be over 240 Korean restaurants in London alone… Hallyu is no longer a ‘third culture’; it has become part of everyday life.”

Parliamentary Diplomacy and the Power of People-to-People Exchange

As a senior representative of the National Assembly in the UK, Mr Kim’s role is deeply rooted in forging connections between institutions, lawmakers, cultural organisations and communities.

“My role is essentially about making connections… good ideas and good people become even more valuable when they are shared.”

He stressed that parliamentary diplomacy plays a vital role in sustaining long-term cooperation, allowing political leaders to better understand each other’s societies and cultures. Recent years have shown a sharp rise in interest:

“Members of the UK Parliament’s APPG on Korea have grown from seven or eight to more than 30.”

This increased engagement, he explained, reflects the expanding curiosity and respect for Korea across British political, cultural and economic sectors.

The Essence of Hallyu: Warmth, Humanity and Mutual Respect

Mr Kim offered a powerful reflection on what makes the Korean Wave resonate so deeply around the world. Beyond entertainment, he believes its heart lies in a distinctly Korean sensibility:

“If the essence of British soft power is freedom, then the essence of Hallyu lies in ‘정’ (Jeong) - a warm sense of affection, attachment and human connection.”

This, he suggests, is what enables Hallyu to act as a source of unity and peace-building across nations.

The Next Frontier: Youth, Language and Shared Opportunity

When asked about future generations, Mr Kim spoke passionately about the rapid rise of Korean language learners in the UK and the growing desire for young people in both countries to study, work and build their futures across borders.

“We must create the conditions for such exchanges to take place freely… This will bring enormous benefits to both our countries.”

He highlighted the expansion of the Youth Mobility Scheme to 5,000 participants annually, describing it as a gateway for deeper cultural and educational exchange.

Career Highlights and Lasting Impact

Among the achievements that stand out in his career, Mr Kim shared two that he regards with particular pride:

• His opportunities to engage with all four legislatures across the UK, including the Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly.

• The introduction of a Korean-language multimedia guide at Westminster Palace, launching this year:

“It will remain one of my proudest moments… a true symbol of parliamentary exchange between our two countries.”

Looking Ahead

This conversation with Mr Kim encapsulates the mission of the Hallyu Leaders & Experts series: to illuminate those whose work is strengthening cultural diplomacy, advancing mutual understanding and shaping Korea’s place in global conversations.

As Korea and the UK continue to expand their partnership, from culture and technology to education, mobility and policy, the stories and insights shared in this series aim to foster deeper appreciation, respect, and collaboration between both nations.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZVgZPlmIAc