2 December 2024, Seoul. The Philippine Embassy in Seoul launched dayo 이민자: Stories of Migration, a commemorative publication marking 75 years of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and South Korea, on 1 December 2024 in Seoul, South Korea. The book highlights the resilience, aspirations, and contributions of Filipino and Korean migrants, weaving their stories into a compelling narrative that bridges cultural divides and fosters mutual understanding.

The launch followed the International Forum on Migration and was attended by members of the book's Editorial Board led by Editor-in-Chief Erlinda Mae Young, contributors, and forum participants, both in person and online. In her congratulatory message, Ambassador Ma. Theresa B. Dizon-De Vega emphasized the publication’s significance in amplifying migrant voices and deepening the ties between the two nations. She noted that dayo serves as a testament to the shared journeys, experiences, and aspirations that have strengthened the enduring friendship between the Philippines and South Korea.

The book, which is published with an English version on one side and a Korean version on the other, categorizes migration stories into five themes. Community advocates include Filipino and Korean civic workers who embody the spirit of service and cross-cultural collaboration; multicultural builders feature marriage migrants navigating integration, family dynamics, and cultural adaptation, enriching their communities with diverse traditions; industry drivers highlight migrant workers and entrepreneurs who strengthen the economic ties of both countries, while forging deep cultural connections; thought leaders showcase Filipino and Korean students, scholars, and educators who promote academic excellence; and creative champions focus on athletes, artists, and performers whose work transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, uniting people through shared passions.

Among the notable individuals featured in dayo are CFO Bagong Bayani awardees Rodney Queman and Dr. Ariel Bernardo; executive chefs Kibum Park and Belgium Villanueva; entertainers Ryan Bang, Dasuri Choi and HORI7ON; football athlete Gwibeom Nam; Filipino-Korea Spouses Association Founding President Fe Gimarino-Kim; professors Donghyub Kim, Kyungmin Bae and Joel David; student organization Pinoy Iskolars sa Korea; Seoul Honorary Citizen Awardee Katherine Corteza; Chairpersons of Korea Chamber of Commerce Ill-Kyoung Park and Ho Ik Lee; and Korea National Merit Awardee Jae Jung Jang.

Ambassador Dizon-De Vega expressed hope that dayo would foster greater empathy and understanding, and underscore the strong people-to-people cooperation between Philippines and South Korea. As a heartfelt tribute to the migrants who shape the communities they belong to, dayo stands as a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations, inspiring continued collaboration and mutual respect in the years to come. END