From Incheon to the United Nations: A Journey Toward Global Citizenship
- IVECA Center
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
When Korean students presented their ideas at United Nations Headquarters in New York, they reached a defining milestone in a journey toward global citizenship. Their journey began in Incheon, where ten students selected through the East Asia Global Education Institute (IEGI) of the Incheon Metropolitan City Office of Education joined the IVECA–IEGI Student-Led Global Exchange Academy (iSGEA).
From May through July 2026, the students exchanged perspectives on global challenges with peers in China while developing team projects focused on sustainable cities and communities. Youth mentors from the United States guided their work virtually before meeting them in New York, where the students explored the city and collaborated with their mentors face to face.
The students investigated challenges affecting Incheon and the wider world, analyzed their causes and impacts, and developed practical action plans. They interviewed experts, built project websites, created AI-powered chatbot consultants, and refined their proposals with international peers and mentors. These activities challenged them to think critically, use AI ethically, and develop innovative yet feasible solutions that place humanity at the center of technological advancement.
Their reflections revealed how the experience broadened their perspectives and strengthened their confidence in communicating across cultures. One student shared: “Through this program, I learned to see the world from a wider perspective. I also realized that people from different countries can work together to solve global problems. This experience made me want to live as a responsible global citizen.” Another student described a new understanding of young people’s ability to create change: “Before this program, SDGs felt like something only adults or politicians deal with. IVECA completely changed my school life by proving that students can build real, meaningful projects that can change our cities and even the world.”
In New York, the students connected their local research and intercultural learning with the wider international community. They met experts from diverse fields and presented their projects at the 2026 UN High-Level Political Forum Side Event. For one student, the experience became a turning point: “Presenting our work before an international audience and discussing urban challenges allowed me to truly appreciate the value of international cooperation. Seeing our ideas respected on a global stage broadened my perspective and became a turning point in shaping my future aspirations. It strengthened my determination to become a diplomat… I am now more motivated than ever to continue studying international affairs and international organizations.”
Through iSGEA, the students came to see themselves not simply as learners, but as young people capable of contributing to sustainable development and international cooperation. Although the program has concluded, their journey toward becoming responsible, interculturally aware, and respectful global citizens continues. IVECA will continue working with diverse partners to create opportunities for young people to engage across cultures, address shared challenges, and turn their ideas into meaningful action for a more sustainable future.
Watch highlights from the students’ iSGEA journey at the link below.
