By Honorary Reporter Rosemarie Ann Cuevas from Philippines
Photos = Rosemarie Ann Cuevas

April 30 marked a proud moment as I wore my modern Filipiniana, a traditional outfit from the Philippines, at the induction ceremony for this year's class of Honorary Reporters at KOCIS (Korean Culture and Information Service) Center at Korea Press Center in Seoul.

Opting to stay in the program for another year, I made more than just a fashion choice; the attire symbolizes the identity and pride I carry as a Filipina to share Korean culture and help raise understanding of Korea.

I proudly wear my modern traditional outfit from the Philippines, showing I'm ready to impress the world.

Joining Honorary Reporters last year opened doors to writing, cultural exploration and lasting friendships. For example, I connected with Eleonora Gaspar, an Honorary Reporter from Hungary. We remain in touch and will collaborate on Korean cultural content during her next visit to Korea.

I pose with the Rana brothers (from left to right) -- Majid, Wajid and Adil -- who are Honorary Reporters from Pakistan.

This year's ceremony felt even more meaningful because it brought together both new and returning Honorary Reporters, including influencers I met at Korean expos and cultural events. Among them were the Rana brothers from Pakistan, whose dedication to promoting Korean culture through social media inspired me.

Compatriot and Honorary Reporter from the Philippines Mylene Baybayan Jeon (right) and I show our certificates of appointment while clad in Filipiniana.

Meeting Mylene Baybayan Jeon, a compatriot and long-time Honorary Reporter, was another highlight. Wearing our Filipiniana outfits reminded me that I'm not alone on this path; it gave me renewed confidence and deepened my passion for connecting with others through storytelling and building cultural bridges.

Over the past year, I've contributed articles on life in Korea ranging from celebrating vibrant scenes at an international flower festival to the quiet reflection of barefoot hiking. As a graduate student, I delved into cafe culture, experienced the fusion of tradition and innovation at a Hanbok (traditional clothing) expo, and witnessed Korea's forward-thinking spirit at a global startup event.

These stories are more than just reports, they are meaningful memories of my journey as both a writer and a cultural bridge. In the year ahead, I hope to keep producing stories that bring people and cultures closer together. From Filipiniana to Hanbok and Seoul to the world, I'll keep writing, sharing and celebrating everything this journey brings.

To Korea.net and the Honorary Reporter team, thank you for your trust, support and the opportunity to grow and inspire others to see Korea through both a domestic and global lens.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.