Rotation of the Permanent Representative of the DPRK to ESCAP

On 26 November 2025, RC Joe Colombano hosted the incumbent Permanent Representative of the DPRK to ESCAP, Mr. Ri Nam Song, and his successor, the Permanent Resident-designate, Mr. Ri Kwang Chon. During the farewell call with Mr. Nam Song, the RC expressed his sincere thanks to the PR for his longstanding commitment to the United Nations and the Resident Coordinator, specifically. While temporarily based in Bangkok, it was critical for the RC to be able to rely on the support and guidance of the PR to build up the relationship with the DPRK authorities, ahead of taking up residence in Pyongyang. 

The RC also warmly welcomed the arrival of Mr. Ri Nam Song’s successor, PR-designate Mr. Ri Kwang Chon. At their first courtesy call, the RC expressed his firm belief on the importance of dialogue and face-to-face meetings, especially at a time of divisions in the UN membership. He invited the PR to consider the Country Team as the DPRK’s extended family overseas, and part of the DPRK’s own team to backstop its UN work. Mr. Ri Kwang Chon will officially take up his assignment effective 1 December 2025.