Open Conversations – Kellogg Beyond Oxford
Seoul 2026 – in partnership with Ban Ki-moon Foundation
We are delighted to invite all current members of College and alumni worldwide to join us for a special weekend in one of the world’s most dynamic and influential cities, Seoul, South Korea.
Friday 24 April to Sunday 26 April 2026
This special weekend of events and cultural opportunities is hosted by
Kellogg College Bynum Tudor Fellow and former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
This Kellogg College flagship event offers face-to-face engagement with influential figures shaping South Korea and the world today – from international diplomats and political leaders to high-ranking South Korean statespeople, trailblazers of K-Culture, leaders in business and technological innovation, and distinguished scholars from the University of Oxford.
Expect thought-provoking panel discussions on themes that matter – the shifting global geopolitical landscape, artificial intelligence and the future of humanity, South Korea’s leadership in innovation, and the rise of Korean soft power.
This will be an extraordinary weekend filled with meaningful intellectual exchange, exclusive networking opportunities with panellists and alumni, and carefully curated cultural experiences – including scenic city walks, cultural tours, and the rare chance to visit the DMZ.
Event Details
Dates: 24–26 April 2026
Venue: Grand Hyatt, Seoul
Accommodation: Special rates for accommodation available at Grand Hyatt Seoul – see booking link
Tickets Available: Strictly limited to 60 tickets
Early Bird price per ticket: £500 (until 31 December 2025)
See our speakers and special guests | View the weekend programme
Meet our Convenors and Special Guests
(Kindly note that our list of speakers and distinguished guests will be updated in the coming weeks.)
Ban Ki-moon
Former UN Secretary-General
The Rt Hon Baroness Jan Royall
Former Leader of the House of Lords, UK Parliament
Professor Kim Hyung-Suk
Professor Kim Hyung-Suk, composer and the ‘godfather of K-pop'
His Excellency Ambassador Kim Sook
South Korean diplomat and international relations expert
Kristie Lu Stout
CNN Anchor and Moderator
Professor Max Van Kleek
Kellogg College Fellow and Associate Professor of Human-Computer Interaction, University of Oxford
Professor Ian Goldin
Professor of Globalisation and Development at the University of Oxford
The Honourable Park Jin
South Korean diplomat and politician
A Weekend of Exclusive Events and Cultural Opportunities
Friday 24 April 2026
Welcome Event – An exclusive evening reception at the UK Ambassador’s Residence, offering an opportunity to engage informally with eminent guests, speakers, and University of Oxford alumni.
Saturday 25 April 2026
- Panel discussions – A series of expert panels covering key global topics, such as the shift in the global geopolitical landscape, AI and the Future of Humanity, South Korea’s innovative leadership, and South Korea’s growing soft power through K-culture.
- Networking lunch – An intimate networking lunch with international figures from government, business, diplomacy, and academia.
- Gala dinner – A four-course gala dinner featuring toasts and addresses from distinguished speakers.
Sunday 25 April 2026
Cultural tours and experiences – Choose from a selection of specially curated excursions, featuring privileged access to iconic sites.
Panel discussion topics
The World We’re In
Way Ahead for the Korean Peninsula & Northeast Asia
K-Culture and soft power
AI & the Future of Humanity
Korea’s Innovation Leadership
Cultural tours and experiences
Seoul: Palaces and Museums in Hanbok
Join a guided walk through central Seoul, including visits to a royal palace and selected museums.
Time with a Master Artisan
Take part in a private session with a skilled practitioner of a traditional Korean art – such as tea ceremony, calligraphy, or craft to gain a deeper understanding of Korea’s cultural foundations.
Full-Day Visit to the DMZ
Visit the Demilitarised Zone for an overview of the Korean conflict and its ongoing impact. This experience includes a military expert guide to give historical and political context.