By Hong Dae-soon
Currently, the United Nations has four headquarters located in New York, Geneva, Vienna and Nairobi. However, none are situated in Asia. It is time for a fifth U.N. headquarters to be established, and it should be in South Korea.
Asia’s significance in the global context can’t be overstated. The continent is home to a diverse range of nations, including developed, middle-income, emerging and developing countries, making it a microcosm of the global community. With 5.4 billion people, Asia accounts for nearly 60 percent of the world’s population of 8 billion. Economically, the region contributes 40 percent to global GDP and demonstrates impressive growth rates and potential, solidifying its status as a region of immense opportunity. Furthermore, of the 193 U.N. member states, 54 are from Asia — a remarkable representation.
Just 60 to 70 years ago, South Korea was one of the poorest nations, lagging behind countries like Ghana and the Philippines. Today, it stands as a global economic powerhouse, often ranking among the top 10 economies of the world. It is the seventh country to join the exclusive “30-50 Club,” comprising nations with populations exceeding 50 million and GDP per capita over $30,000.
Remarkably, South Korea is the only country to have transitioned from being a recipient of international aid to becoming a donor nation. Its official development assistance now exceeds 4 trillion won, benefiting over 90 countries in areas such as health care, transportation and education. South Korea has served as both a “mother” to developing nations and a leading example for advanced countries.
However, there is more. Today, the world’s eyes are on South Korea as the Korean wave continues to rise, captivating global audiences with K-pop, K-dramas and K-movies, including worldwide sensations like BTS and "Squid Game." These phenomena have earned South Korea the title of "Heart of Asia."
Furthermore, South Korea shares an exceptionally unique and profound relationship with the United Nations. Founded on Oct. 24, 1945, the U.N. made history during the 1950-53 Korean War by operating under its flag for the first time to protect freedom and peace. Guided by the U.N.’s fundamental principles, 16 countries dispatched combat troops, and five nations provided medical support teams — an unprecedented moment in the organization’s history.
Through the immeasurable and noble sacrifices of U.N. forces and South Korean soldiers, the Republic of Korea was able to safeguard its freedom. However, South Korea remains divided, and this year marks the 72nd anniversary of the Korean Armistice Agreement — a poignant reminder of the unfinished journey toward peace. Establishing a U.N. headquarters in South Korea would carry profound significance, not only for the nation but also for the global community.
Adding to its distinguished legacy, South Korea also produced the 8th U.N. secretary-general, Ban Ki-moon.
Now is the time for South Korea to seize this opportunity by strategically prioritizing the establishment of a fifth U.N. headquarters as a national agenda. Hosting the U.N. headquarters would enable South Korea to make monumental contributions to global peace and human prosperity, while elevating its status and prestige on the international stage.
This initiative would also bring tangible benefits, including job creation, increased foreign tourism and enhanced international recognition. Furthermore, it would serve as an invaluable inspiration for future generations, encouraging them to broaden their perspectives on global society, international citizenship, international affairs and global markets.
We eagerly await the day when the ground-breaking announcement is made: South Korea has been selected to host a United Nations headquarters.
Hong Dae-soon is a professor at Kwangwoon University's Graduate School of Business in Seoul.
English (United States) ·