[Features reporter] 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 News Features reporter 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.

Congratulations to the award winners. Including chef Edward Lee,

Right, who also made an appearance on the Kulture Wave last year.

It's also great to see two athletes receive this honor. While it's K-pop and K-dramas that hallyu fans are exposed to every day it's interesting how sports stars seem to play a huge role in promoting a great image of Koreans out there.

I remember a couple of years ago legendary figure skater Kim Yuna and swimmer Hwang Sun-woo were among the recipients as well.

Korean sports figures seem to embody Korean people's character which is often described as one of diligence and perseverance.

I agree.