▲ Newly appointed KDS President Jeon Hong-min sharing his inaugural vision with executives and staff.

The Korea Institute for Development Strategy (KDS), a specialized international development consulting institute, announced that it held the inauguration ceremony for its new President and CEO, Hong-min Chun, on the 10th. President Jeon has officially taken office as the third president of KDS.

The inauguration ceremony commenced with opening remarks by KDS Chairman Jeon Seung-hun. Chairman Jeon called for the cooperation of all executives and staff, stating, "Based on the experience accumulated by KDS over the past 25 years, I look forward to continuing our sustainable development under this new leadership."

The newly appointed President Hong-min Chun graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in Business Administration and earned a Master’s degree in International Studies from the Graduate School of International Studies at Yonsei University. Since joining KDS, he has served as the Head of the Management & Planning Division and the Head of the Global Climate Change Division, among other roles.

The ceremony was conducted through a program designed for direct communication between the new president and the staff.

Moderated by Professor Kim Sung-kyu from the Institute for Sustainable Development at Korea University, a talk show was held under the theme, "Wishes for the New Leadership! #GrowTogether." Together with panel representatives from each staff rank, President Jeon exchanged views on the changing landscape of the international development cooperation market and the future operational direction of KDS. He also spent time answering questions previously submitted by employees.

Following the main event, a networking program was held for all executives and staff.

In his inaugural address, President Jeon outlined the major achievements and future tasks of KDS. To date, KDS has implemented over 300 international development projects across 140 countries, and maintains cooperative networks with various public institutions, universities, and the private sector.

President Jeon emphasized, "A new growth strategy is essential to respond to various challenges, such as changes in the ODA (Official Development Assistance) market environment and intensifying competition."

On this day, President Jeon also announced the draft of 'KDS Vision 2030'. With "Grow Together, Beyond ODA" as its core slogan, the vision encompasses key strategic directions including: ▲ market expansion and strengthening strategic partnerships, ▲ enhancing expertise, and ▲ fostering organizational culture and talent development.

President Hong-min Chun stated, "I will work hand in hand with our executives and staff to ensure that KDS grows into an institution that drives positive change in society."