The Northern region is more than 6,000 km away from Seoul, but changes in the Arctic have directly impacted life on the Korean Peninsula. One of the most palpable effects has been the disappearance of ice shelves in the Arctic Sea, resulting in extremely cold winters here. There is no question that the far-reaching impact of Arctic changes demands immediate global efforts.

2023 marks the 10th anniversary of South Korea becoming a formal observer of the Arctic Council. During this decade, the Republic of Korea has contributed to the Arctic Council by addressing various Arctic issues, including climate change and environmental protection. We have also made meaningful contributions to scientific research in the Arctic and successfully hosted the Ministerial Meeting of the Central Arctic Ocean Fisheries Agreement (CAOFA).

Today, we collectively bear the responsibility of seeking new cooperative paths for the future of the Arctic, which is undoubtedly at the center of change. Careful, dedicated observation and research are critical for addressing the climate crisis in the Arctic, as well as deep consideration of the direction of sustainable development in the region.

Arctic Partnership Week 2023, titled "Great Transition: Navigating New Arctic," will lay the groundwork for Arctic cooperation. We look forward to sharing expert wisdom on various topics, including scientific research, international cooperation, and sustainable development on the 8th Arctic Partnership Week. We invite you to join us this December in Busan, South Korea, for the 8th Arctic Partnership Week.