This president includes the language of the counterpart country in social media diplomatic messages - the dignity of digital diplomacy.

Introduction - A New Face of Diplomacy

21st century diplomacy is no longer confined to discussions and statements within meeting rooms. World leaders now communicate directly with their citizens through digital platforms and convey global messages in real time. In particular, social media has emerged as another front of diplomacy and a key channel for strategic communication. Consequently, every mention and every word carries weight in its message. In this context, President Lee Jae-myung's directive to 'accompany SNS diplomatic messages with translations into the language of the counterpart country' was a small yet deeply resonant diplomatic decision. This is not simply a directive for translation or interpretation. It is an expression of intent to address the citizens of the counterpart country directly and to show respect in their language. President Lee's directive is notable for prompting a reconsideration of the essence of diplomatic communication and for proposing a new standard suited to the changing times.

Main Point 1 - Language is Respect

In diplomacy, language is more than just a tool for communication it is a symbol that respects cultural sensitivity and identity. Particularly when a leader delivers a message in the language of another country, the emotional closeness felt by the citizens of that country is significant. This occurs not merely because they can understand the content, but because the language itself conveys the message that 'we are being thought of.' President Lee Jae-myung's use of Japanese, French, Italian, and other languages spoken in his visiting countries on social media was not merely a formal change. Rather, it was a sincere attempt to respect the symbolism and identity embodied in the language, and ultimately served as an important strategy that infused 'courtesy' and 'empathy' into diplomatic messages. For example, Japanese social media users' reaction that they were "touched by the Korean president speaking directly in Japanese" illustrates that language inclusion goes beyond simply facilitating understanding it is an act of respecting the other person's culture. A single line of message transcends borders and reaches the heart.

Main Body 2 - The Practical Evolution of Diplomacy in the Digital Age

The development of digital platforms is fundamentally changing the nature of diplomacy. In the past, diplomatic messages were only conveyed through press releases or joint statements, but today, a single personal account of the president can represent the country's position and can be disseminated to millions in real-time. Consequently, the choice of language and expression on social media operates as part of diplomatic strategy. President Lee Jae-myung's directives are an example of practically utilizing these platform characteristics and points of public engagement. This carries meanings beyond mere diplomatic messages. By delivering messages directly to foreign citizens through social media, it vividly conveys the South Korean government’s positions and attitudes, effectively narrowing the distance with them. Especially, this approach helps expatriates as well as the younger generation perceive diplomacy as a more familiar and vibrant domain. At the point where diplomacy transforms from being an "elite league" into a space that resonates with the citizens, the strategy of bilingual communication on social media presents a compelling direction.

Main Point 3 - Building Trust Beyond Diplomacy

Language is the starting point of trust. When a foreign leader directly greets in their own language, people can read respect, consideration, and authenticity in those words. President Lee Jae-myung's SNS diplomacy strategy is creating a positive ripple effect that contributes to building trust in the medium to long term, beyond just short-term responses. In fact, in the case with Japan, emotional exchanges occurred through comments from citizens of both countries, and similar reactions were observed in France, Italy, and Canada. This suggests that a change in a leader's attitude can serve as a catalyst for forming common ground among the people. Furthermore, it reaffirms the fact that diplomacy ultimately begins with trust between individuals. Most importantly, this directive recognizes the language of the counterpart not as a 'tool' but as 'an existence itself.' This attitude can be seen as a willingness to redefine diplomacy based on mutual respect rather than coercion or strategic interests. This is what enhances the dignity of diplomacy and positively strengthens South Korea's image in the international community.

Conclusion - Leadership in a Changing Era

The directive for bilingual communication in President Lee Jae-myung's diplomatic messages on social media is not merely a promotional strategy. It is a sophisticated and dignified diplomatic strategy tailored to the changes of the times, showcasing the essence of digital diplomacy based on emotion and trust. This directive, aimed at communicating in the people's language beyond borders, presents a pathway for the future of diplomacy. Leadership that incorporates careful consideration and strategic thinking even in small expressions always garners attention. Diplomacy is no exception. This directive demonstrates that our diplomacy can evolve in a more humane and open manner, fostering hope for its development into a model of 'diplomacy alongside the people' and 'global diplomacy grounded in respect' in the future.