Pham Thi Bich Nguyet, a Seoul-based Vietnamese cultural ambassador, was named one of the 17 Honorary Citizens of Seoul for 2025 in recognition of her role in promoting the capital and Korean industry and culture in Vietnam. This distinction was officially conferred on her at an award ceremony on November 26, 2025, at the City Hall’s Conference Hall.
In an interview conducted via email and Instagram from December 10 to January 20, Nguyet said, “I am deeply honored and moved to be among the youngest individuals recognized as an Honorary Citizen of Seoul in 2025. Hearing that I was the sole representative from Vietnam filled me with overwhelming pride and joy. This title is a testament to my persistent efforts and dedicated service over the past decade.”
Nguyet’s interest in Korea developed during her school years in Vietnam, influenced by Korean dramas, such as ‘Glass Slippers’, ‘Autumn in My Heart’, ‘Stairway to Heaven’, and ‘Boys Over Flowers’. Beyond the screen, she was also inspired by the country’s vibrant, bustling lifestyle and food culture, which motivated her to learn the language and pursue higher education in Korea. During this time, her parents offered her strong support.
“My parents were my greatest supporters. My father encouraged me to study abroad from a young age, and my mother, seeing the global rise of the Hallyu wave, suggested Korea as the ideal destination,” she said.
Nguyet’s passion and determination, along with her parents’ support, led her to Korea in 2015, where she began her journey as an international student. She initially faced challenges adjusting to life in the country, particularly in terms of language and cultural differences. Nguyet addressed these by dedicating her first three months to intensive Korean-language study and extracurricular activities. Her hard work and dedication enabled her to achieve strong academic results and build professional networks.
“Despite a one-month delay in starting the classes due to visa issues, I managed to rank in the Top 10 in my class in the first semester and eventually became the top student in the following term. Mastering the language was the key that opened doors to academic success, social networking, and professional growth,” she explained.
Nguyet went on to earn her Master’s in Marketing from the University of Seoul and also secured several scholarships from her university and Korean foundations, supported by the recommendations of the Vietnamese Embassy. She currently serves as the Head of the International Consulting Department at a leading dermatology and plastic surgery clinic in Seoul.
In addition to her professional career, Nguyet has been involved in public and cultural diplomacy, extending her contributions to include cultural exchange, education, and social welfare programs for foreign residents. She has actively served on the executive boards of various organizations supporting foreign residents under the Korean government and municipal authorities to enhance the quality of life for the expatriate community. She also promotes a dynamic image of Korea to the world as an Honorary Reporter for Korea.net and a Global Communications Ambassador for both the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) and the University of Seoul.
“Throughout this journey, I have always strived to act as a vital bridge in strengthening the friendship between Vietnam and Korea. I hope that my small contributions have helped elevate Seoul’s global standing as the city moves toward its goal of becoming one of the world’s top five most livable global cities,” she said.
Nguyet’s sustained efforts in cultural promotion, community engagement, and public diplomacy culminated in her being recognized as an Honorary Citizen of Seoul.
Reflecting on the ceremony, she said that the professionalism, meticulous preparation, and consideration for the honorees by the Seoul Metropolitan Government deeply impressed her. She explained that the scale and organization of the ceremony, from the official invitations to the formal proceedings, conveyed a strong sense of respect. A particularly meaningful moment was when the city officials, upon learning that her mother was visiting Korea, thoughtfully sent formal invitations to her family through both email and post.
“Throughout the ceremony, from the warm welcome and the honorary scarf ritual to the thoughtful souvenirs, my family and I felt truly cherished. The hospitality and elegance of the organizers made this an unforgettable milestone,” she added.
The recognition also coincided with a personal milestone for Nguyet as she completed 10 years in Korea, and she was glad to have her mother, one of her earliest supporters, by her side.
“After years of saving, I was able to repay my parents for their initial support. Celebrating my 10th anniversary in Korea by bringing my mother to Seoul for a vacation in late 2025 was a deeply emotional and rewarding milestone for me,” she explained.
For Nguyet, the honor was a meaningful moment that brought together her professional journey, family support, and decade-long life in the country.
*This article was written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.
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