Ghana’s newly appointed Ambassador-Designate to South Korea, Kojo Choi, has dismissed suggestions that his selection is politically motivated or tied to the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The businessman and cultural advocate insists his appointment by President John Dramani Mahama rests solely on his professional achievements.
Speaking on Channel One TV on Tuesday, August 12, Choi maintained that his work and relationships extend across Ghana’s political spectrum. “I have never been political. I know a lot of people in the NPP. For example, our company PaySwitch was launched by Dr Bawumia, who came because he is very interested in digitalisation, not for political reasons. The company is one I co-founded with my partner, and people assumed there was a political connection, but there wasn’t,” he said.
He recalled how former First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo attended the opening of his art gallery, explaining it was out of genuine interest in art and support for his vision to promote emerging artists. “Her visit was motivated by her passion for art and her support for my vision to promote emerging artists rather than established ones,” he noted.
Choi emphasised that his friendships cut across both the NPP and NDC. “I have never lobbied or sponsored political causes. I have always been a quiet entrepreneur,” he stated. Born in South Korea, he relocated to Ghana at age 14 and later became a naturalised citizen, positioning himself as a cultural and business bridge between the two countries.
Education and early life in Ghana
Choi’s formative years in Ghana began at SOS Hermann Gmeiner International College in Tema before he advanced to the University of Ghana, Legon. He graduated in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, specialising in Accounting at the University of Ghana Business School.
Professional career
Over two decades, Choi has built an extensive career in telecommunications, financial technology, marketing communications, and business consulting across Ghana and West Africa. He is the founder and CEO of PaySwitch Ghana Limited, the first third-party payment processor in the country capable of handling major card schemes such as Visa, MasterCard, and UnionPay, as well as integrating all major mobile money operators.
Beyond Fintech, Choi founded Art Africa, a gallery in Accra promoting African artists, and has made his mark in sports as the Men’s Group A champion at the 2023 MTN Ghana Invitational Golf Tournament.
President Mahama officially announced Choi’s appointment in July 2025, marking the first time an individual of Korean descent has held such a post in Ghana’s Fourth Republic, a milestone Choi views as a testament to his commitment to national development and international diplomacy.
