From broadcaster to cultural bridge-builder, Peter Bint has spent more than 15 years calling Seoul home. Best known for introducing Korean culture to international audiences, the Arirang Radio host was recently named a Seoul Honorary Citizen. In this interview, he shares his journey in the city, his media work, and what the recognition means to him personally.
The following are excerpts from a recent online interview with Peter Bint, Seoul Honorary Citizen.
The interview was conducted via SNS between December 8 and 11.
1. Could you share a bit about yourself and how long you’ve been living in Seoul?
I’m half Korean, half English — my mom’s Korean and my dad’s British — but I actually grew up in London. I first came here as a kid on family trips, but I’ve been properly living in Seoul for over 15 years now. At this point, Seoul feels just as much like home as the UK.
2. What first brought you to Seoul, and what made you stay?
I’d visited countless times growing up, thanks to my mom, but moving here in my early twenties was a different experience. I loved the fast-paced lifestyle, the energy, and honestly the feeling that the city was reinventing itself every year. That rapid development pulled me in — and I just never left.
3. You mentioned that your role on Arirang Radio played a significant role. Could you elaborate on how your work contributed to this recognition?
On Daily K, we cover all aspects of Korean culture, but when it comes to events, travel, and experiences, Seoul naturally dominates the conversation. For nine years, we’ve been introducing foreign listeners to everything Seoul has to offer — its festivals, museums, neighborhoods, traditions, and new trends. I think that consistent spotlight on the city played a big role in getting recognized.
4. Besides your radio work, were there other contributions or activities that led to your nomination?
Yes, I think so. I’ve been involved in various Seoul-related events, cultural programs, museum collaborations, and English–Korean content projects that help bridge the cultural gap. Hosting public programs, participating in tourism campaigns, and doing bilingual work across media probably all helped shape the overall picture.
5. When did you first learn you were being considered for the title, and how did you feel?
I was nominated by a friend and fellow honorary citizen, Fabien Yoon. I’d always been a bit envious seeing other foreign broadcasters receive the honor, so finding out I was being considered felt surreal. I was genuinely humbled and grateful.
6. What does receiving the Seoul Honorary Citizen title mean to you personally?
It means the world — or should I say, the city. Seoul isn’t just the place I work and live in; it’s where I built my career, my family, and my community. To be recognized by the city itself feels like a huge privilege and a sign that my efforts to introduce Seoul to the world have actually mattered.
7. What was the ceremony like? Any memorable moments from the event?
It was beautifully organized and surprisingly emotional. Seeing my name up there and meeting all the other honorees was special. But the standout moment was having my wife and mom in the audience — they were so proud, which made the whole thing even more meaningful.
8. What aspects of Seoul’s culture or society have you been most passionate about promoting?
I love showcasing Seoul’s mix of old and new — traditional markets next to futuristic architecture, neighborhood cultures, food trends, parks and riverside life, and the warmth of its people. I enjoy helping foreigners understand the city beyond K-pop and dramas, and showing the everyday beauty of living here.
9. What are some challenges you faced as a foreigner living in Seoul, and how did you overcome them?
Language was, of course, a challenge at first. Although I spoke it a bit, certain administrative systems and documents were incredibly difficult to navigate. But the more I immersed myself — through work, friendships, and family — the easier it became. Korea rewards effort. If you show genuine interest and respect, people respond warmly.
10. What do you love most about living in Seoul?
The convenience is unbeatable — the transportation, the food delivery, the safety. But more than that, it’s the sense of community I’ve built here. My colleagues, listeners, and friends have made Seoul feel truly like home.
11. What advice would you give to foreigners aspiring to be part of Seoul’s community?
Try to participate actively — learn some Korean, explore different neighborhoods, join local events, and be open to cultural differences. Seoul embraces people who embrace it back.
12. Are there any upcoming projects or goals you’re excited about?
Yes! I’m working on new bilingual cultural content, expanding some of my English-learning projects, and exploring more storytelling formats that highlight both Seoul and Korea as a whole. And of course, I’m continuing my journey on Daily K, hopefully for many more years.
Seoul Honorary Citizenship Program
The 2025 Seoul Honorary Citizenship Ceremony was held on November 26 at City Hall’s Conference Hall, where honorary citizenships were conferred on 17 foreign residents from 16 countries.
According to the Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG), the Seoul Honorary Citizenship program, established in 1958, recognizes distinguished foreign individuals who have contributed to connecting Seoul with the world, as well as foreign residents who have supported the city’s development and the lives of its citizens. To date, a total of 968 foreign honorary citizens have been appointed.
This year’s recipients were nominated between March 24 and May 16 by embassies, heads of public and social organizations, as well as through citizen petitions signed by 30 or more individuals. Following a rigorous screening process, the final candidates were approved by the Seoul Metropolitan Council.
Peter Bint was selected in recognition of his contributions to promoting Seoul and Korean culture, and for sharing everyday life in the city through his work as a host on Arirang Radio and through his YouTube content.
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