On December 7, the former United Nations (UN) Secretary General Ban Ki-moon gave a special lecture on the “United Nations (UN) and Global Leadership,” at the Centennial Memorial SAMSUNG Hall of Korea University (KU). The lecture was hosted by the Social Science Korea (SSK) research team of KU Ilmin International Relations Institute (IIRI). Many people from KU, including President Yeom Jae Ho, Head of SSK Kim Sung Han, and numerous students, attended this event.

 

After a brief introduction by Yeom, Ban started off his lecture by illustrating how he has seen much from the days of poverty after the Korean War to the today’s world. He provided details on his nine years of experience as the secretary-general, seeking to find a better path for UN’s role and future in international politics. He also shared interesting episodes in his professional career, including his visits to Myanmar and his analysis of the Darfur crisis.

 

Ban stated, “The phrase ‘A Better World for All’ has always been my slogan throughout my career.” He further emphasized that he did his work not to be complimented, but to save people and solve problems around the world. He finished his lecture advising the students to be aware of their surroundings, not only with passion, but also with compassion for others as well.