Luis Filipe Ferreira Fraga, a Brazilian artificial intelligence (AI) engineer, was among 17 foreign residents from 16 countries named "2025 Honorary Citizens of Seoul," recognized Wednesday for advancing multicultural understanding and bolstering the city's global standing.

According to the city government, candidates were nominated between March 24 and May 16 through recommendations from embassies, social organizations and the public. The final selection was made after a review by an evaluation committee and approval from the Seoul Metropolitan Council.

All of this year's honorees have lived in Seoul for at least five years, achieving professional success in their respective fields while consistently engaging in community service and international exchange.

Ferreira was recognized for his work at a domestic company developing AI-based medical imaging solutions for disease diagnosis. In addition, he has promoted Seoul internationally through media appearances, Portuguese-language education and mentoring for international students.

The city explained that being an honorary citizen gives recipients the opportunity to participate in various city affairs, including official events, advisory roles and promotional projects. Previous honorees have contributed as advisers in global communications, participated in new media campaigns and supported city-run initiatives for foreign residents.

For example, 2022 honoree Abhishek Gupta, an Indian-born broadcaster widely known as "Lucky" in Korea, has served on the advisory board for the city's 120 Dasan Call Center, helping improve services for foreign residents. Others, such as Andres Albiol, honored in 2024, collaborated on the city's YouTube "Seoulite Project," showcasing Seoul's transport system and hidden attractions.

The city plans to host a formal ceremony in November, inviting this year's honorees along with their families, embassy officials and past recipients.

"We sincerely thank these 17 individuals who have made Seoul their home and enriched the city with their dedication," said Kim Soo-deok, global city policy director at Seoul Metropolitan Government. "The metropolitan city will continue striving to make Seoul a city where everyone wants to live, and a global top-five city recognized worldwide."

Brazilian AI innovator among 17 named honorary citizens of Seoul - The Korea Times