Germany is a special country for all Koreans. During the tough post-war period, seed money was raised for national reconstruction through nurses and miners who were dispatched to Germany. Unlike neighboring countries that were in a rush to withdraw their investments in Korea during the 1997 Asian financial crisis, Germany increased its long-term investment with strong faith in the Korean economy. With aspirations for and experiences with reunification in common, we are sharing global economic power based on highly advanced IT-Technology and exports. In addition, more than 540 German companies that have entered the Korean market with over 100,000 employees are working hard to realize the common economic values of Korea and Germany.

Based on this special relationship between Korea and Germany, the Alumninetzwerk Deutschland-Korea (ADeKo) was established in 2006 with to the perspective of strengthening the solidarity of over 20,000 Korean alumni (including 5,000 Ph.D.) who studied in Germany and contributing to social development by improving the capabilities of members through mutual cooperation and encouragement, as well as promoting various exchanges and ultimately contributing to the practical social development of both countries.

Although it has drawn social attention through a variety of activities over the past 18 years, ADeKo is expected to play a much more important role this year, 2023, which marks the 140th anniversary of the establishment of Korea-Germany diplomatic ties. It will carry out an integrated academic conference in September, a special music concert in November, a high school sisterhood relationship program, and quarterly breakfast meetings. Starting next year, Alumni New Year's Eve and Year-End Concert will be annual traditions. The website has also been renovated to announce the various contributions and activities of many alumni, aiming to raise the status of ADeKo externally through outreach.

At a time when a new international order is required amid the rapidly changing global crisis, ADeKo will also take the initiative in helping Korea and Germany establish and lead a new global cooperation system as well as develop leadership in global civil society. ADeKo will establish itself as a pivotal organization linking Korea and Germany.

ADeKo will be the future, dream, and hope of both countries.

I hope to see you at various events. Thank you.

Chairman of ADeKo 

Prof. Dr. Hyo-Joon Kim