About Us
The Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung (hbs) is a non-profit organisation that is part of the global Green movement. Based in Berlin, Germany, hbs has a network of over 30 offices around the world.
In 2024, hbs opened the Heinrich-Boell-Stiftung East Asia Office in Seoul, South Korea.
The Heinrich Böll Foundation's office in Seoul acts as a regional hub for promoting dialogue on pressing global issues. Strengthening political dialogue between Asia and the EU it is dedicated to promoting ecological transformation, regional peace, digital justice, and strengthening of democratic societies within East Asia, including South Korea and Japan. These two key countries play a major role as setters of norms and standards in the region.
The office is strategically located in Seoul, South Korea - a nation that has undergone significant democratic growth and rapid economic development following its transition from dictatorship to democracy. As such, the country not only often attracts activists from the region, but also faces challenges of dealing with needed transformation and change itself.
In response to the growing challenges faced by East Asian countries, particularly the weakening of democracy characterized by political polarization, the rise of far-right forces, and the erosion of international law and cooperation, the East Asia Office aims to create a space for meaningful dialogue between Europe and East Asia. This is achieved through a range of activities, including educational programs, research projects, networking events, and policy dialogues designed to strengthen democracy and civil society.
By supporting diverse social change agents, the East Asia Office actively contributes to addressing pressing global issues. With a particular focus on foreign and security policy, the office facilitates discussions/debates on enhancing the regional security architecture.
