The Overseas Koreans Agency (Director General Lee Sang-deok) announced on the 15th that it is hosting a homeland program to provide 441 next-generation overseas Koreans from 31 countries around the world with opportunities to learn about and experience Korea. The 7th Next Generation Overseas Koreans Homeland Program, which began on the 13th, has 253 youth participants from 31 countries. Meanwhile, the 8th program, starting on the 14th, includes 188 university (and graduate) students from the same number of countries.

The programs run for one week each and are designed to help next-generation Koreans cultivate pride in their homeland by experiencing Korean culture, history, and advancements. The programs are hosted by the Overseas Koreans Agency and organized by its affiliated Overseas Koreans Cooperation Center.

Participants in the 7th program will explore traditional and modern Korean culture in Seoul, Buyeo, and Daejeon. Activities include learning about Baekje's maritime advancements, which included the spread of Chinese characters to Japan, and experiencing advanced technologies such as space exploration science and augmented reality sports at the National Science Museum.

The 8th program focuses on fostering global leadership with activities centered on history, culture, and global climate change responses in Seoul, Busan, and Incheon. Key activities include:

Opening Ceremony at Seoul National University in Siheung, Gyeonggi-do
Exploring Busan, the city of marine science and history
Visiting Seoul’s historical and cultural landmarks and witnessing its development
Participating in a Hanbok Festival to experience Korean etiquette and traditions
Conducting a global citizenship action project addressing climate change
Director General Lee Sang-deok attended the opening ceremony of the 8th program and emphasized, “The homeland program for next-generation overseas Koreans is one of the core initiatives of the Overseas Koreans Agency. During the program, I hope participants will build networks with each other and with friends in Korea, foster their Korean identity, and grow as valuable assets to both their countries of residence and Korea.”