Geumcheon-gu Seeks 'Honorary Citizens' for 2026

Geumcheon-gu is accepting nominations for its "2026 Geumcheon-gu Honorary Citizens" program until 6 p.m. on Sept. 18. It is seeking candidates who have contributed to the district's development and fostered exchange and goodwill with its residents.

Geumcheon-gu has run its honorary citizen program since 2015. Honorary citizens receive administrative benefits similar to those given to registered residents and are invited to various district events, including Citizens' Day. They may also be appointed as guest lecturers or asked to serve on district-related committees when the district mayor deems it necessary.

Candidates are selected from foreign nationals who have contributed to Geumcheon-gu regardless of residence, as well as Korean nationals living in other cities, counties or districts. Eligible candidates include those who have helped advance the district's development and standing by promoting its lifestyle, economy, education, culture or arts. Also eligible are those who have made significant contributions to boosting exchange, trade cooperation or goodwill between the district and its residents. Candidates also include those who serve as a role model or hold symbolic significance for local residents.

The district mayor, a Geumcheon-gu Council member or the head of a public organization may submit nominations. So can the head of a civic group with at least 10 members, or a group of at least 10 residents. Nominators should prepare a recommendation letter, a statement of merit, a personal information consent form and supporting documents. These can be submitted in person to the Geumcheon-gu Office's Autonomous Administration Division, or by mail or email.

Geumcheon-gu will select about two honorary citizens following deliberation by an honorary citizen certificate award review committee. Geumcheon-gu will notify selected candidates individually in October and present them with honorary citizen certificates and plaques at the 2026 Citizens' Day event.

"We want to find and honor those who, despite not being residents, have contributed to and devoted themselves to our community for the sake of Geumcheon-gu's development," District Mayor Choi Ki-chan said. "We ask residents for their attention and participation so that many people who have built ties with Geumcheon-gu and helped advance the district can be nominated."