On 30 September 2025, Asia Centre extended its reach into East Asia, with a symbolic presence in Seoul, South Korea. This marks a significant step in expanding and strengthening the Centre’s regional cooperation on democracy and human rights.
At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Dr. James Gomez represented Asia Centre, alongside Korea Democracy Foundation officials, members from IDEA, V-Dem and Indo-Pacific Democracy Forum to inaugurate Korea Democracy Foundation’s Center for Honorary Offices of the International Organisations.
This step represents another milestone in the growing relationship between Asia Centre and the Korea Democracy Foundation that has evolved steadily over recent years.
The partnership was formally established through a Memorandum of Understanding signed on 7th November at the 2024 KDF Global Forum, Seoul, South Korea. It laid the institutional groundwork for cooperation and the creation of the honorary office. The three year MOU was to promote the development of both parties and international democracy through cooperation and friendship.
However, the collaboration between the two organisations can be traced back to 2018, when Dr. James Gomez was awarded the Korean Democracy Research Fellowship by KDF. The fellowship, which allowed Dr. Gomez to research on the rising challenges of “Fake news” and its impact on electoral integrity, not only facilitated academic inquiry but also opened pathways for Asia Centre’s integration into South Korea’s civil society networks, creating a foundation for ongoing cooperation.
On 1st January 2025 , in recognition of his dedicated leadership and significant contributions, Dr. James Gomez was awarded Goodwill Ambassador by the Korea Democracy Foundation for the years 2025–2026.
The inauguration of the Honorary Office marks a new phase for Asia Centre and KDF, one focused on implementing their shared vision. The office will enable joint research, programs and policy forums that connect both organisation’s experiences with ongoing challenges faced by democracies throughout Asia.
Overall, it is a symbol of the enduring partnership and the belief that regional cooperation is important for supporting democratic progress.
