The United Diplomatic Council (UDC) is set to convene an international dialogue in Seoul on 9 October 2026, bringing together diplomats, entrepreneurs, startup leaders, innovation experts and business representatives for a timely discussion on the growing role of startups in international cooperation.
Titled “Startups, Culture & Innovation: Exploring Startups Diplomacy,” the programme will be held at Seoul Startup Hub, Changdong, Seoul, from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM. The initiative reflects UDC’s broader vision of using diplomacy not only as a channel for government-to-government relations, but also as a platform for connecting innovation ecosystems, businesses and emerging entrepreneurs across borders.
Moving Beyond Traditional Diplomacy
The concept of startups diplomacy is increasingly relevant in a world where innovation, technology and entrepreneurship are becoming important components of international engagement. Startups can create partnerships across markets, connect young entrepreneurs, introduce new technologies and build relationships that extend well beyond traditional commercial channels.
The Seoul dialogue will explore how diplomacy, culture and innovation can work together to create new opportunities for international collaboration.
The programme brings together perspectives from Korea, Sierra Leone, Tanzania and other international diplomatic and business communities, reflecting UDC’s emphasis on creating a genuinely global platform.
A Distinguished International Line-up
The programme will feature opening remarks and addresses from a diverse group of business and diplomatic leaders.
Dr. Asif Iqbal, President, United Diplomatic Council, will address the theme of strengthening global cooperation through startups and innovation.
H.E. Paul Sobba Massaquoi, Ambassador of Sierra Leone to the Republic of Korea, will bring an African perspective to the dialogue, focusing on partnerships for an innovative future.
The programme will also feature Mr. John Masuka, Economic Advisor, Embassy of Tanzania, Seoul, who will share perspectives from Tanzania on innovation, trade and international opportunities.
Korean business and innovation perspectives will be represented by Mr. Lee Soo Sang, Chairman, KTCA, while Mr. Shayan F. Lahiji of SYP Ventures will discuss Korea’s startup and innovation ecosystem.
The programme will also include Mr. Bhanu of T-Hub, bringing perspectives on global startup ecosystems, opportunities and collaboration.
The opening segment will feature Dr. Mohd Hassan Baig, Managing Director, IKBIC, Mr. Bonhi Gu, Former Commissioner of Invest Seoul, and Mr. Razeem K, First Secretary, Commerce & Investment, Embassy of India, Seoul.
From Dialogue to Collaboration
An important feature of the programme will be its emphasis on moving from conversation to practical engagement. The event will include an MoU Signing Ceremony involving IKBIC and T-Hub, followed by networking and high tea.
The gathering will also honour distinguished guests from embassies and the wider diplomatic community, reinforcing the role of diplomatic networks in creating bridges between startup ecosystems and international markets.
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