Kojo Choi: Our trailblazing ambassador to South Korea

By Samuel AGYEMAN-PREMPEH

Kojo Choi is the recently-appointed Ghanaian Ambassador-designate to the Republic of South Korea, a significant diplomatic post reflecting Ghana’s effort to strengthen bilateral relations with South Korea.

Although born in South Korea, Choi relocated to Ghana at the age of 14 and has since become a naturalised Ghanaian citizen. He embodies a unique cultural and business bridge between the two nations, with a life and career deeply rooted in Ghana.

Choi’s educational background is firmly Ghanaian. After moving to Ghana, he attended SOS Hermann Gmeiner International College in Tema, a reputable secondary school. He then pursued higher education at the University of Ghana, Legon, where he graduated in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, specialising in Accounting at the University of Ghana Business School (previously known as the School of Administration).

Professionally, Kojo Choi has amassed over 20 years of experience in Ghana and the West African region, with expertise spanning telecommunications, financial technology (Fintech), marketing communications and business consulting. He is the founder and CEO of PaySwitch Ghana Limited, the country’s first third-party payment processor capable of handling major international card schemes such as Visa, MasterCar, and UnionPay, as well as integrating all major mobile money operators in Ghana. Under his leadership, PaySwitch has achieved notable success and technological innovation in the Ghanaian digital economy.

Apart from Fintech, Mr. Choi has contributed to Ghana’s cultural and sports sectors, notably founding Art Africa – a cultural and gallery centre in Accra that promotes African artists. He is also an accomplished golfer, having won the Men’s Group A title at the 2023 MTN Ghana Invitational Golf Tournament.

Kojo Choi’s appointment as Ambassador-designate to South Korea, announced officially by President John Dramani Mahama in July 2025, is a milestone reflecting his long-standing commitment to Ghana’s development and international representation. This appointment is historic, as Choi is the first individual of Korean descent to hold such a diplomatic post in Ghana’s Fourth Republic. His nomination was aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation, enhancing trade relations and promoting cultural exchanges between Ghana and South Korea.

Despite his naturalised status and Korean heritage, Choi has demonstrated profound love and loyalty to Ghana, often expressing his identity as “Ghanaian in heart and life”. He has lived in Ghana for over three decades, contributing as much as any native-born citizen to the country’s socio-economic fabric. His appointment stirred debate in Ghana regarding national identity and citizenship but also sparked praise for the inclusivity and meritocratic spirit it represents.

His appointment as Ghana’s ambassador symbolises progress toward inclusivity, breaking barriers that have traditionally defined nationality. It highlights that skills, commitment and love for one’s country are the true foundations of national identity.

Choi’s life exemplifies building bridges — uniting different cultures, fostering cooperation and promoting mutual respect. Through initiatives in Fintech and cultural advocacy, he merges his Korean heritage with Ghanaian identity, crafting a narrative of global citizenship and collaboration.

His story encourages societies to embrace diversity, valuing the richness brought by those who wholeheartedly commit to their adopted homes. It is a reminder that belonging stems from contributions and shared values. Through Kojo Choi, we see how dedication, innovation and a heart for service bridge nations and cultures, inspiring future generations to transcend borders and build lasting international partnerships.

>>>the writer is a passionate advocate for democratic governance and citizen engagement. As a concerned citizen, he writes to promote awareness and inspire action toward building stronger and more inclusive democratic institutions in Africa.

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