On June 2, Ms. Kim Yena was appointed as the new English Specialist at the NEAR Secretariat. She received her letter of appointment from Secretary-General Lim Byung-jin and officially commenced her duties.
Ms. Kim majored in interpretation and translation at Busan University of Foreign Studies and completed her master’s coursework at the Graduate School of Interpretation and Translation at the same situation. She has also gained practical experience a Korean-English liaison interpreter at international events, including Spain’s National Day celebration and the Busan International Performing Arts Market.
As a member of the Department of International Cooperation, Ms. Kim will be responsible for advancing cooperation projects with associate member governments, promoting the Young Leaders Forum, conducting regional research, and managing English translation and interpretation.
Ms. Kim expressed her determination to quickly adapt to her new role and to contribute to the advancement of the Secretariat by embodying the values and vision that NEAR aspires to uphold.
Meanwhile, Ms. Jung Sung-eun, who had served as the Secretariat’s English Specialist since March 2024, stepped down from his post in March 2025. Secretary-General Lim presented him with a letter of appreciation in recognition of his dedication and contributions to the work of the Secretariat during her tenure.