A Korean Delegation Visits South Tyrol to Explore Community Cooperatives and Local Development
The Competence Centre for Cooperative Management recently welcomed Prof. Jongick Jang, Professor of Global Business and Social Economy Management at Hanshin University and President of the Korean Society for Cooperative Studies, together with a delegation from South Korea interested in exploring the role of cooperatives in fostering local development, social innovation, and community resilience.
The exchange began on 15 May at the Â鶹Éç-Bolzano, where Richard Lang and Giacomo Buzzao met with Prof. Jongick Jang. The meeting Â鶹Éç provided an opportunity to discuss current developments in cooperative research and practice, with particular attention to community-based models of economic and social development. The exchange also highlighted the growing international interest in cooperative approaches capable of strengthening local communities and addressing societal challenges through collective action.
The visit continued on 28 May with a study visit to the Community Cooperative Por Mareo in Pieve di Marebbe, accompanied by Alessandro Narduzzo. On this occasion, the Korean delegation included representatives from the cooperative finance sector, social economy organizations, and territorial support institutions.
Alongside Prof. Jongick Jang, the delegation included:
- Seokjo Son, Director, Social Finance Division, National Federation of Credit Union
- Sangjin Lee, CEO, Korea Social Investment Finance
- Janghan Woo, Executive Director, Gyeongbuk Citizens Foundation
- Josung Mun, Director, Hwaseong Social Economy Support Center
- Hyun Jung, Manager, Hwaseong Social Economy Support Center
- Myungjae Han, Director, Jinan Social Economy Support Center
During the visit, the delegation met with President Felix Ploner and gained first-hand insight into the cooperative’s activities, governance model, and contribution to the development of the local community.
Por Mareo represents a significant example of how community cooperatives can mobilize local resources, promote citizen participation, and generate social and economic value in rural areas. The visit offered a valuable opportunity to discuss the opportunities and challenges associated with community-led development and to compare experiences from Italy and South Korea.
The exchange was particularly meaningful as Por Mareo had previously participated in a conference on community cooperatives organized by the Competence Centre, contributing to discussions on innovative cooperative models and the role of communities in shaping sustainable territorial development.
The Competence Centre extends its thanks to President Felix Ploner and all members of Por Mareo for their hospitality and willingness to share their experience. Special thanks also go to Jacopo Sforzi of Euricse for facilitating the connection and making this international exchange possible.
Through initiatives such as these, the Competence Centre continues to foster international dialogue and knowledge exchange on the contribution of cooperatives to inclusive and sustainable development.