Leyla Məsimli, a compatriot who has lived and studied for many years in the Republic of Korea and holds a PhD in philosophy, has been awarded the honorary citizenship of Seoul. She is one of 17 individuals to receive this title in 2025.
The title of “Honorary Citizen of Seoul” is conferred by the Mayor of Seoul to foreign nationals who have contributed to the city’s development and the improvement of local residents’ quality of life. Established in 1958, this honorary title has been awarded to 968 people to date.
Currently teaching the course on Azerbaijani multiculturalism at Inha University, our compatriot’s award highlights the recognition of her efforts to promote Azerbaijani culture in Korea, strengthen scientific collaboration, and build a cultural bridge between the two countries.
Leyla Məsimli also gives lectures introducing Azerbaijani culture in Seoul’s schools, kindergartens, and public education projects. Last year, together with writer Yu Su-Jin and with support from the Azerbaijani Diaspora Support Fund, she translated seven Azerbaijani folk tales into Korean; this year, she translated six stories from the epic “Kitabi-Dədə Qorqud” into Korean. She is currently translating 20 Korean folk tales into Azerbaijani, with publication planned for 2026.
Within close cooperation with the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, she organizes Azerbaijani Days, cultural festivals, scientific lectures, and presentations in Korea. In recognition of her contributions to promoting the Azerbaijani language and culture abroad, she has been awarded the “For Service in Diaspora Activities” medal.