MANILA, Philippines — South Korean singer and actress Sandara Park has been appointed as a goodwill ambassador for South Korea's Overseas Koreans Agency for 2026, recognizing her long-standing connection with overseas Korean communities, particularly in the Philippines.
The Overseas Koreans Agency formally appointed Park during a ceremony held at its headquarters in Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, where officials presented letters of appointment to the new honorary ambassadors.
Joining Park in the role is renowned South Korean history educator Choi Tae-seong, popularly known as "Big Star Teacher."
Park shared news of her appointment on social media, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve overseas Korean communities.
"I have been appointed as a Public Relations Ambassador for the Overseas Koreans Agency. I sincerely thank you for entrusting me with this meaningful role," Park wrote in a post translated into English.
"Having lived in the Philippines for many years, I have come to understand and feel close to the hearts of overseas Koreans, which makes this appointment even more meaningful to me. Moving forward, I will do my best to serve faithfully as a bridge connecting overseas Koreans and the Republic of Korea," she added.
Agency officials said Park was selected because of her unique ability to connect with overseas Koreans through her own experiences abroad. They cited her approximately 11 years of residence in the Philippines, where she first rose to fame and developed a strong bond with both Korean expatriates and Filipino fans.
As their first official activity, Park and Choi will appear on the Overseas Koreans Agency's YouTube channel, "Dongpo ON." Choi's livestream was held on June 3, while Park's appearance is scheduled for June 10 at 3 p.m. The broadcast will remain available on the agency's YouTube channel after the livestream concludes.
Park first gained prominence in the Philippines after joining ABS-CBN's talent competition "Star Circle Quest" in 2004. She went on to establish a successful acting and singing career in the country before returning to South Korea in 2007.
In 2009, she debuted as a member of the K-pop girl group 2NE1, which became one of the most influential and globally recognized acts in the Korean music industry. Park and the group are also considered key figures in helping expand the Korean Wave, or Hallyu, among Filipino audiences.
