The Ministry of Environment (Minister Kim Wansup) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) announced that, in celebration of World Environment Day 2025, held from June 4 to 13 in Jeju and Seoul, three cultural and artistic figures active both domestically and internationally were appointed as promotional ambassadors (as of May 13).

The three promotional ambassadors are soprano Jo Sumi, actor Kim Sukhoon, and child actress Kim Tae-yeon. Over the approximately four months following their appointment, they will promote the World Environment Day theme of “Beat Plastic Pollution” both domestically and internationally through various digital content and participation in on-site events.

Soprano Jo Sumi is a world-renowned opera singer recognized for her contributions in widely promoting Korea’s artistic excellence and cultural richness to the world.

Actor Kim Sukhoon is an experienced actor active in dramas, films, and theater, recently gaining attention as an environmental activist promoting eco-friendly practices in daily life under the nickname “Trash Man.” Child actress Kim Tae-yeon is a promising talent who won great affection from viewers for her role as young Ae-sun in the narrative drama “When Life Gives You Tangerines,” set in Jeju Island.

These three ambassadors will participate in social media campaigns by the Ministry and UNEP to spread the message of “Beat Plastic Pollution (#BeatPlasticPollution)” both domestically and internationally. 

They will also participate in events tailored to their fields and specialties. Soprano Jo Sumi will perform with a children’s choir at the World Environment Day ceremony held on June 5 at the International Convention Center Jeju (ICC Jeju, located in Seogwipo, Jeju). Actor Kim Sukhoon will host the Environment Book Concert on June 4 at the Ieodo Plaza of the ICC Jeju and share his personal eco-friendly practices during the ceremony on June 5. 

Meanwhile, the Ministry is accepting pre-registration applications for the 2025 World Environment Day ceremony for two weeks starting May 12 through the official Environment Day website (wed2025.kr). 

Pre-registration can be completed on the website by entering name, affiliation, and mobile phone number. Only those who complete pre-registration will receive a QR code for admission to the ceremony on their mobile phones, sent sequentially starting five days before the event. Registration may close early depending on venue capacity.

Jung Eun-hae, Director General of International Cooperation Bureau, stated, “We expect the three ambassadors active in their respective fields to play a significant role in widely promoting World Environment Day.” She added, “We will do our utmost to ensure that all citizens can participate in ending plastic pollution through World Environment Day 2025.”

For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division. 

Contact person: Gina Lee, foreign media spokesperson

Phone: +82-44-201-6055

Email: gcjgina @gmail.com