17/06/2026
On 15 June, the UN Women Knowledge and Partnerships Centre (Centre) in the Republic of Korea joined the graduation celebration of the third cohort of the EMPOWER Programme at Aston Hall, British Embassy Seoul.
EMPOWER is a year-long personal and professional development initiative for mid-level women professionals in Korea, jointly organised by the British Embassy Seoul and the British Chamber of Commerce in Korea in partnership with the Centre. Since its launch in 2023, the programme has supported women leaders across industries—from professional services and technology to automotive, pharmaceuticals, media, and start-ups—to strengthen their leadership skills, expand their networks, and advance their careers with confidence.
Since 2024, the Centre has been a proud partner of EMPOWER, contributing to participant selection, co-organising cohort events, and delivering a tailored UN Women workshop, "How to Become Changemakers with the Women's Empowerment Principles." Through this partnership, the Centre has helped create meaningful opportunities for women professionals to grow, connect, and lead.
The graduation ceremony brought together EMPOWER graduates, business leaders, and distinguished guests, including Alderwoman Dame Susan Langley DBE, the 697th Lord Mayor of the City of London and the first to be styled "Lady Mayor," who delivered the keynote address, and H.E. Colin Crooks LVO, British Ambassador to the Republic of Korea.
Ms. Yun Jeong Hwang, Director of the Centre, had the honour of presenting graduation certificates alongside Ambassador Crooks, reflecting the Centre's continued commitment to advancing women's leadership in the Korean private sector.
One of the most powerful moments of the evening came from the graduates themselves. Through deeply personal and moving presentations, they reflected on a transformative year of growth, sharing how the programme helped them find their voices, embrace their authentic leadership styles, and gain the confidence to pursue new possibilities. Their stories were a reminder that leadership is not only about professional achievement—it is also about self-discovery, courage, and community.
“These talented women did not need capacity building; they were already capable and already leading in many ways. What EMPOWER provided was the space, support, and community to embark on a year-long journey of asking difficult questions and finding their own answers through mentors, sponsors, inspirational leaders, and—most importantly—each other,” said Ms. Ahjung Lee, External Relations Specialist at the Centre.
Each cohort of EMPOWER demonstrates the profound impact that investing in women's leadership can have—not only on individual careers, but on workplaces, industries, and society as a whole. As we celebrated the achievements of the third cohort, we were reminded that advancing gender equality requires creating spaces where women can grow, lead authentically, and inspire others to do the same.
We look forward to welcoming the next cohort and supporting the journeys ahead.
