2025 Korea Image Awards for those who promote S. Korea

Every year Seoul hosts an awards ceremony to acknowledge the efforts of those who served to enhance Korea's image overseas.

Our Ahn Sung-jin was at the latest event.

Gold-medal fencer Oh Sang-uk, table tennis medalist Shin Yubin and star chef Edward Lee.

What these figures have in common is that they have played a key role in raising Korea's image.

"Since 2005, the Corea Image Communication Institute holds its annual Korea Image Awards which not only honors those who raise Korea's profile abroad, but also those who represent and shine the country."

Oh became the first Asian fencer to win a grand slam of golds at the Asian Games, Asian Championships, World Championships and Olympics.

"When fencing at the Olympics, I never thought about being Asia's first, which is actually what helped me win the match."

Fellow Olympic medalist, Shin Yubin, who won two bronze medals in table tennis, was given the "Korea Image Flowerstone Award."

Shin went viral at the Games for her positive attitude and for the snacks she ate during her breaks.

"It's an honor to receive this award, and I'm glad that my accomplishments can help promote the country. I've still got a long way to go, but I will do my best to further promote South Korea."

The finalist on Netflix's Culinary Class wars, Edward Kyun Lee was given the "Korea Image Stepping Stone Bridge Award", for his efforts to introduce Korean cuisine with traditional ingredients and a modern twist.

"For the past few months I was able to look back on who I am as Korean Lee Kyun. So many people from Korea have sent me love and support, and I was truly able to understand the meaning of "jeong" in Korea."

These award winners show that it's not just K-pop and dramas that spread Korean culture around the world.

Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News.