Gwangyang City Signs Its First Friendship City Agreement in North America, Expanding Its International Network

Cooperation with Langley Township in Metro Vancouver, Canada
Full-Scale Exchanges Begin in North America... Commitment to Economic and Other Partnerships

Gwangyang City, Jeollanam-do announced that its delegation visited Langley Township in Metro Vancouver, Canada, starting from November 1, and officially signed an international friendship city agreement with Langley Township at the Langley Events Centre on November 4 (local time).

Approximately 30 people attended the signing ceremony, including Jinhwa Jung, Mayor of Gwangyang, Choi Daewon, Chairman of the Gwangyang City Council, Eric Woodward, Mayor of Langley Township, members of the Langley Township Council, key department and institution officials, and the Gwangyang City delegation, reaffirming the commitment of both cities to exchange.

Jung Inhwa, Mayor of Gwangyang, and Eric Woodward, Mayor of Langley Township. Provided by Gwangyang City

Prior to the agreement signing, the two cities strengthened their friendship by laying flowers and paying tribute at the 'Gapyeong Stone,' which was installed in Canada to honor Korean War veterans-the first such memorial in the country.

The event began with the introduction of key attendees, followed by welcoming remarks from the mayors and council chairmen of both cities, a city promotional video screening, the signing of the agreement, exchange of commemorative gifts, and a group photo session.

The 'Gwangyang City Promotional Photo Exhibition,' held in conjunction with the event, showcased photographs of Gwangyang's major attractions, industries, and natural landscapes, drawing significant interest from local attendees.

Through this agreement, the two cities agreed to enhance mutual understanding and friendship and to expand exchanges in various fields, including education, culture, and the economy.

In particular, they plan to pursue practical cooperation projects such as cultural and artistic exchanges, sports exchanges, youth exchange programs, and the identification of joint development initiatives.

At the signing ceremony, Mayor Jinhwa Jung stated, "This agreement is especially meaningful as it marks Gwangyang City's first step in expanding its exchange network to North America," and added, "We will broaden practical exchanges not only in the fields of economy and industry but also in culture, arts, and tourism."

As of 2024, Langley Township has a population of approximately 150,000, making it the fifth largest city among the 21 cities in Metro Vancouver. The city has balanced development in manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, and the education industry, and has recently been enhancing its growth potential by expanding educational, sports, and cultural infrastructure.

With this agreement, Gwangyang City has secured its first cooperation partner in North America, expanding its international exchange network beyond Europe and Asia to North America. As a result, Gwangyang City's international sister and friendship cities now total 18 cities across 10 countries.

Meanwhile, in addition to the signing ceremony, the Gwangyang City delegation sought ways to expand exchange and cooperation through various activities, including a large-scale city promotion event at the Langley Events Centre, a visit to the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Vancouver, a visit to the KOTRA Vancouver Trade Office, meetings with executives of the Langley Township Chamber of Commerce, visits to local Korean market chains, and discussions on cooperation for exporting Gwangyang's specialty products.