Gyeongsangbuk-do is expanding a range of local diplomatic activities through signing MOU’s with local “sister” governments worldwide. It is also helping NEAR to organize its International organization to meet needs of the global era of cooperation and reconciliation.

North East Asia Regional Governments Association (September 1996)

• Members of North East Asia Regional Governments Association (NEAR) are the Republic of Korea, China, Russia, Japan, Mongolia, North Korea and 40 local governments from 6 countries
• NEAR’s activity includes sectors for practical cooperation and exchanges in the field of economy, trade, culture, environmental protection, disaster prevention, and others.
• “The Secretariat of the North East Asia Regional Governments Association” was established on September 8, 2004.
• A headquarter of “The Secretariat of the North East Asia Regional Governments Association” in Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do was established in May of 2005.

The “Cooperative Wigs of North East Asia” Annual Meeting

• Private exchanges among local “sister” governments will occur annually.
• Cooperative activities on the private level will also continue annually.

Operation of the Gyeongbuk Honorary Advisory Service: 99 persons in 48 nations

Korean residents abroad who make contributions will receive national honor after being appointed to the Gyeongbuk Honorary Advisors. They will not spare any effort to build personal cooperative networks all over the world, facilitating personal and material exchanges, providing technology and market information, and supporting international affairs.

Gyeongbuk Honorary Advisors

Dispatch of International Exchange Officials

• 1 person to 1 nation (Henan Province, China).

Local Sister Governments : 9 countries