Mayor Ara Najarian Strengthens International Ties During South Korea Visit

December 16, 2025

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Mayor Ara Najarian Strengthens International Ties During South Korea Visit

Glendale, CA - Glendale Mayor Ara Najarian returned from a visit to South Korea, which took place from November 8 to November 17. The trip highlighted the country's imaginative and ambitious approach to economic development, urban design, and cultural exchange. During the trip, the Mayor visited Glendale's sister city of Boeun and friendship cities Paju and Seongbuk-gu, as well as Seoul, Hanam, and the Incheon Free Economic Zone.

Throughout the visit, Mayor Najarian observed how South Korean cities embrace experimentation in creating vibrant urban environments. He noted cutting-edge architecture, lively commercial districts, and promenades reminiscent of Glendale's Artsakh Street. Main streets were often complemented by narrow side alleys where businesses extended outdoors, with food carts offering everything from modern street fare to traditional specialties. He noted how the bright neon and digital signage contributed to visually dynamic areas that blended commerce, art, and culture, supported by robust public transit systems.

In Boeun, the Mayor explored mountainous cultural districts known for traditional crafts such as ironwork, calligraphy, and woodwork. The city's parks and hiking areas promoted outdoor recreation.

In the Gangnam region, Mayor Najarian observed modern architecture integrated with riverfront promenades, green spaces, and boat rentals, creating popular gathering places that balanced nature, culture, and commerce.

The visit to the Incheon Free Economic Zone (IFEZ) showcased a large-scale coastal development built on reclaimed land, featuring tall mixed-use buildings, multiple U.S.-affiliated educational institutions, art centers, and coastal attractions. The Mayor described the Incheon International Airport as strikingly modern, with elegant design, high-end retail, and astonishing digital displays.

In Paju, Mayor Najarian experienced a gondola ride to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), outdoor dining areas, a riverfront convention center, and seasonal fall foliage.

The trip concluded in Hanam with a visit to the Hollywood Asia Expo, where the Mayor discussed opportunities for collaboration between Glendale's robust entertainment industry and South Korea's thriving K-pop and content production sectors, including popular Korean dramas, fashion, and music.

"What impressed me most about Korea was the imaginative and bold approach each city takes toward economic development," said Mayor Najarian. "These communities aren't afraid to try new ideas, and they've created vibrant urban spaces that blend commerce, culture, and community in exciting ways."

Click here for photos of Mayor Najarian's trip.

ABOUT GLENDALE

Known as the "Jewel City," Glendale is the fourth largest city of Los Angeles County. With a population of almost 200,000, Glendale is a thriving cosmopolitan city that is rich in history, culturally diverse, and offers nearly 50 public parks & facilities, with easy access to a municipal airport. It is the home to a vibrant business community, with major companies in healthcare, entertainment, manufacturing, retail, and banking. Visit GlendaleCA.gov for more information and follow us on social media @MyGlendale.

ABOUT SISTER CITIES PROGRAM

Established in 1960, Glendale's Sister City Program aims to enhance cultural, educational, and professional ties while addressing mutual challenges and promoting economic development. Glendale maintains sister city relationships with cities across Armenia, the Dominican Republic, Japan, Mexico, the Philippines, and South Korea.

For more information about the Glendale Sister City Program, please visit GlendaleCA.gov/SisterCities