The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) Bangladesh Office celebrated three decades of friendship and partnership with Bangladesh through the Korea Bangladesh Alumni Association (KBAA) Night 2025, held on Thursday (October 16, 2025) at Hotel Sheraton Dhaka.
The annual KBAA Night brought together more than 200participants, including the KOICA alumni, government officials, development partners, and representatives from KOICA projects to commemorate 30 years of cooperation between Korea and Bangladesh. This year’s celebration carried special significance as KOICA marked its 30th anniversary of partnership in Bangladesh, a journey founded on trust, respect, and shared aspirations for sustainable development.
The event began with a video presentation titled “KOICA & Bangladesh – 30 Years of Friendship”, showcasing KOICA’s contributions since its establishment in 1995. Over the years, KOICA has partnered with the Government of Bangladesh to advance progress in public administration and governance, public health, transport modernization, technical and vocational education and training (TVET), and ICT innovation.
During the ceremony, Mr. Jihoon Kim, KOICA Country Director, delivered the Opening Remarks, reaffirming KOICA’s continued commitment to work hand-in-hand with Bangladesh to achieve inclusive and sustainable growth.
Mr. Park Young-sik, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Bangladesh, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, highlighting the enduring friendship between the two nations and the growing impact of KOICA’s development programs.
He Said, “The transition from the ODA is fueled to donor nation. Korea is also recognized as one of the most developed countries in the world. Korea has become an industrial powerhouse with the world’s largest production capacity in building semiconductors, smartphones, and more.
However, today’s Korea would not have been possible without the support and assistance of the international community. With the help of our friends, Korea was able to build today’s economy in just a few decades. Therefore, Korea is willing to repay our debts by sharing our development experience with other developing countries.
As we come together to honor this dynamic alumni community, I’d also like to take this opportunity to commend KOICA for its impressive 30 years of unwavering dedication to the development of Bangladesh. Since 1995, KOICA has launched more than 14 development projects across sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, climate resilience, and governance — contributing to the country’s sustainable progress and improved quality of life.
Within this role of partnership, Korea has played a vital role by aligning its progress with Bangladesh’s development priorities, supporting national capacity, and nurturing human resources.
Tonight, we celebrate our network that has grown to over 2,600 dedicated professionals who have been empowered through KOICA’s programs here in Bangladesh. The KOICA Bangladesh Alumni Association (KBAA) has followed this mission successfully. Alumni have become leaders across various fields in Bangladesh.
Your expertise and dedication stand as a living bridge between mutual understanding and the fostering of enduring friendship between our two nations. KBAA not only connects Korea and Bangladesh but also ensures that cooperation translates into sustainable progress and mutual benefits.
As the Ambassador of Korea to Bangladesh, I assure you that the Embassy will continue to work hand in hand with KOICA, KBAA, and all our partners to make our partnership even more strategic, practical, and forward-looking.
This initiative reflects the depth and warmth of the enduring friendship between Korea and Bangladesh. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1973, the two nations have steadily advanced a comprehensive partnership encompassing trade, development cooperation, cultural exchange, and global challenges.
Two years ago, both nations celebrated the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties. Now it is the right time to discuss how to enhance bilateral cooperation for the next 50 years. I strongly believe that the members of KOICA will play a critical role in taking our existing partnership to a new age.”
The KBAA President, General Secretary, and other alumni members shared reflections on KOICA’s role in global talent development and the meaningful contributions of Bangladeshi alumni in various sectors after returning from training and higher education programs in Korea. Since 1993, more than 2,600 Bangladeshi government officials have participated in KOICA’s fellowship and training programs, while over 1,700 Korean volunteers have served in different institutions across Bangladesh, fostering mutual understanding and lasting bonds between the two peoples.
In 2025 alone, KOICA is facilitating several capacity-building programs for Bangladeshi officials in diverse areas such as public finance, infrastructure development, social protection, and technology-driven policy innovation. These include specialized training on “Capacity Building for ERD Officials in Bangladesh”, “Strengthening Sustainable Infrastructure Development Capacity”, and “Old-Age Income Security Systems”, among others — engaging more than 50 participants throughout the year. These programs continue to enhance institutional capabilities and contribute to Bangladesh’s journey toward sustainable development.
The event also featured the election of new KBAA Executive Members, the presentation of the Best Field Case, and a cultural performance celebrating the rich traditions of Bangladesh. Former KBAA Executive Committee members were honoured with Letters of Appreciation for their dedicated service.
In her Closing Remarks, Ms. Sujin Kong, KOICA Deputy Country Director, expressed gratitude to all alumni and partners for being part of KOICA’s development journey, emphasizing that “our partnership with Bangladesh goes beyond projects — it’s about people, passion, and progress.”
The evening concluded with a networking dinner, strengthening connections among alumni and reaffirming the shared vision of KOICA and Bangladesh for peace, prosperity, and a sustainable future.
