I am fully Ghanaian

Ghana’s Ambassador-Designate to South Korea, Kojo Choi, has stressed that he is a full Ghanaian citizen, holding only a Ghanaian passport with no dual nationality.

Speaking in an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Face to Face on Channel One TV on Tuesday, August 12, Mr. Choi revealed that although he was born to Korean parents, he moved to Ghana at the age of 14 and was naturalised as a Ghanaian in 1999.

He attended SOS Hermann Gmeiner International School in Tema and later pursued his university education at the University of Ghana.

Mr. Choi’s appointment by President John Dramani Mahama stirred controversy, with some Ghanaians questioning why someone of Korean descent was chosen to represent Ghana in South Korea. However, he defended his selection, stressing that he has spent most of his life in Ghana and voluntarily acquired Ghanaian citizenship.

Fluent in Twi and with an understanding of Frafra, Mr. Choi said he was unfazed by the criticism.
“I consider myself Ghanaian. This is my home,” he affirmed.

The businessman also dismissed suggestions that he is aligned with the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

“I have never been political. I know a lot of people in the NPP. For example, our company PaySwitch was launched by Dr. Bawumia because he is very interested in digitalisation—not for political reasons,” he explained.

Mr. Choi, who co-founded PaySwitch, clarified that the venture was a business initiative and not politically motivated.

He further recounted how former First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo attended the launch of his art gallery, explaining that her presence was due to her passion for art and her interest in supporting emerging artists, not because of political ties.

Emphasising that his personal and professional relationships span both major political parties, Mr. Choi said he has “never lobbied or sponsored” any political cause.

“I have always been a quiet entrepreneur,” he concluded.