Members of the Turkish delegation visiting the Global Peace Foundation Korea office
Young leaders from Korea and Turkey recently gathered through a Global Peace Foundation (GPF) youth exchange initiative, strengthening international friendships and exploring ways to advance peace, cooperation, and support for the vision of One Korea.
The visit brought together Turkish youth delegates and members of Global Peace Youth Korea (GPY Korea), creating an opportunity for meaningful dialogue on youth leadership, peacebuilding, cultural exchange, and international cooperation.
A Friendship Rooted in Shared History
Participants reflected on the long-standing friendship between Korea and Turkey, a relationship forged through mutual support during the Korean War and sustained through decades of cooperation.
Rather than viewing this historical bond simply as a legacy of the past, the young leaders discussed how it can serve as a foundation for future collaboration that promotes peace, mutual understanding, and global citizenship.
Through conversations on culture, history, and shared social concerns, participants explored how youth-led engagement can strengthen international friendships and foster a greater sense of shared responsibility in addressing global challenges.
Youth Leadership for Peace and Cooperation
A key focus of the exchange was the importance of youth leadership in building sustainable international networks.
Participants emphasized that meaningful cooperation should extend beyond a single visit and continue through ongoing dialogue, joint initiatives, cultural exchange programs, and peace education efforts. They also shared a common belief that future generations have an important role to play in promoting peace and shared prosperity around the world.
The discussions highlighted how youth-led partnerships can become powerful platforms for advancing understanding across cultures and developing practical cooperation for the common good.
Expanding International Support for One Korea
The exchange also provided an opportunity to discuss the importance of international solidarity in supporting a free, peaceful, and unified One Korea.
Participants agreed that peace and reunification on the Korean Peninsula are not concerns for Koreans alone, but issues that carry significance for the broader international community. They noted that when young people connect across national and cultural boundaries, they help expand global awareness and support for peaceful reunification.
A representative of Global Peace Youth Korea (GPY Korea) expressed hope that the exchange would become a starting point for deeper cooperation between young people from both countries and contribute to a broader vision of peace and global solidarity.
Looking Ahead
The exchange marks another step in building a growing international network of young leaders committed to peacebuilding and cooperation.
Through future youth exchange programs, leadership initiatives, and collaborative projects, Korean and Turkish youth aim to deepen their friendship while contributing to a more peaceful and interconnected world. Their efforts reflect the broader vision of the One Korea Global Campaign: advancing grassroots engagement and international support for peace and the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula.
