The IIRD is an official development assistance (ODA) body helping developing countries around the world to develop their agriculture and build their rural communities. We draw on the agricultural expertise of Korean universities to support developing countries in the areas where they are challenged, and cooperate with Korean and international bodies in fulfilling the pan-global task of poverty eradication.

The paradigm of global cooperation in the development of agriculture and rural communities underwent a major change around the time of the United Nations' setting of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015. The international community will be pleased to know that, by providing effective development assistance in agriculture and rural communities, the SDGs of no poverty (SDG 1), zero hunger (SDG 2), peace, justice and strong institutions (SDG 16), and global partnerships for sustainable development (SDG 17) can be achieved to a significant extent. Moreover, development assistance in agriculture and rural communities is expected to empower small producers in value chains and stimulate the social economy.

For many years, the IIRD has been working to improve the lives of the most poverty-stricken worldwide. We are here to make a positive difference in the international community by implementing the lessons we learned from the experience and knowledge Korean universities and industries have accumulated over the years. We invite you to take an active interest in our endeavors. Thank you.

President Lee, Dae-Seop Institute of International Rural Development, Kangwon National University