Zampolli’s World: National Foundation Day Reception by the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Korea to...

On Oct. 5, the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Korea to the United Nations gave a reception in commemoration of its 42nd anniversary of its National Foundation Day (Korean: 한국어). This holiday celebrates the creation of the state of Gojoseon (ancient Korea), founded by Dangun Wanggeom in 2333 BC. South Korea enjoys a rich and diverse culture. It has become one of the world’s most vibrant societies. The holiday is known as “Gaecheonjeol,” which means “the day when the sky opens.” H.E. Ambassador Park In-Kook and Mrs. Kim Mee Young welcomed a number of high dignitaries, ambassadors and senior officials from the diplomatic community and international organizations.

The UN Secretary General, Mr. Ban Ki-moon was among the special guests along with United Nations Association —Brazil Ambassador At Large Paolo Zampolli who was present with World Bank Representative Mr. Yuvan Beejadhur.

Janos Pasztor is the Director of the Climate Change Team for the Secretary General and designated Head of the High Level Panel on Global Sustainability. As one of the OECD’s fastest-growing economies, South Korea is stepping up its financial commitment to clean energy, low-carbon projects, and research and development. Investments in the clean energy field by South Korean companies and government constitute a very important part of addressing climate change. In that regard, a number of large South Korean industrial groups, such as Samsung Group and LG Group, are taking the lead in the private sector’s efforts to climate action. The country intends to build the world’s first nationwide smart grid system. South Korea’s leadership and pioneering role in the green economy is inspiring many more countries to follow the same path. It is therefore a uniquely placed candidate for hosting the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 18) in 2012.