Ban Ki-moon's Biography

Ban Ki-moon is a globally respected South Korean diplomat and politician, best known for his tenure as the eighth Secretary-General of the United Nations from 2007 to 2016. Born on June 13, 1944, in Eumseong County, South Korea, Ban Ki-moon's early passion for diplomacy was evident when he won an English essay contest and traveled to the United States as a student. He later graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in international relations and earned a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University. Ban rose through the ranks of South Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ultimately serving as Foreign Minister before his historic appointment to the UN. Throughout his career, Ban Ki-moon championed sustainable development, gender equality, and climate change action, playing a pivotal role in the Paris Climate Agreement and the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals. His diplomatic style, characterized by quiet determination and bridge-building, earned him respect on the world stage. Beyond his professional achievements, Ban is known for his commitment to humanitarian causes and peacebuilding. He continues to be active in international forums, advocating for global citizenship and ethical leadership. Married to Yoo Soon-taek with three children, Ban enjoys reading, hiking, and gardening in his personal life. His legacy is marked by his tireless dedication to making the world a better, more peaceful place.