Only the Third Time in History: Bangladesh Grants Rare Citizenship to Kihak Sung

Kihak Sung honorary citizenship has officially been granted by the Government of Bangladesh, recognizing his monumental contributions to the nation’s economic growth, foreign investment, and employment generation over the past four decades. The Chairman and CEO of Youngone Corporation, a South Korean conglomerate, pioneered investments in Bangladesh’s Export Processing Zones (EPZs) and has played a key role in transforming the country’s manufacturing sector.

A Historic Moment for Bangladesh and South Korea

In a special ceremony hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud personally handed over the certificate of honorary citizenship to Kihak Sung. During the ceremony, Dr. Mahmud highlighted Sung’s leadership, which has created hundreds of thousands of jobs and significantly boosted Bangladesh’s position in the global manufacturing landscape.

This prestigious recognition is only the third time in Bangladesh’s history that an individual has been awarded such an honor, cementing Sung’s place in the nation’s history.

This recognition and its broader implications were also covered in a detailed report by The Daily Star, highlighting Kihak Sung’s transformative role in Bangladesh’s industrial sector.

A Four-Decade-Long Legacy in Bangladesh

Youngone Corporation began operations in Chattogram EPZ in the early 1980s and has since expanded to Korean EPZ (KEPZ), which Kihak Sung personally invested in, transforming it into one of the largest private EPZs in the country.

Today, Youngone operates several production units across Bangladesh, specializing in high-end outdoor clothing and gear for global markets. The company has employed over 70,000 workers, significantly boosting industrial output, export revenues, and skill development.

Dr. Mahmud emphasized the deep-rooted partnership between Bangladesh and South Korea, noting that Kihak Sung’s visionary investments have played a crucial role in elevating Bangladesh’s global trade profile.

“Kihak Sung is more than just an investor—he is a true friend of Bangladesh,” said Mahmud.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Sung’s efforts have not only expanded Youngone’s presence in the region but have also contributed to building a bridge between Bangladeshi and South Korean industries. The honorary citizenship award is a reflection of the shared values and collaborative vision between the two nations.

In response, Kihak Sung expressed heartfelt gratitude, reaffirming his commitment to continuing investment in Bangladesh and supporting the local workforce.

“It’s an incredible honor to be part of Bangladesh’s development story,” said Sung during the ceremony.

The event was attended by diplomats, government officials, and business leaders who applauded the recognition and hailed it as a milestone in Bangladesh’s journey toward becoming a major manufacturing hub.