http://paektuculturalexchange.org/about-pce/
About Michael Spavor
Michael originates from Calgary, Alberta, Canada and has spent over 20 years living in both North and South Korea. He is passionate about his work and is focused on facilitating cultural, sport and tourism exchanges as well ethical and non-sanctioned business, film making, academic, and development projects, all with the aim of building stronger relationships and economic ties between the DPRK and the world.
He first visited the DPRK in 2001, and in 2005, he became the managing director of a Canadian NGO based in Pyongyang. Since 2005 he has organized many specialized visits to the DPRK including; the Asia Society, the Young Presidents Organization, academic institutions, businesses, tourism programs, media groups as well as professional athletes and celebrities.
In 2013 and 2014, he organized the Dennis Rodman visits, and the basketball match between the DPRK and former NBA players, where he also became friends with the country’s leader Marshal Kim Jong Un.
He has high-level contacts with government ministries and organizations throughout the DPRK. He recently completed a cultural heritage restoration project outside Pyongyang with the Dutch Royal Family’s Prince Claus Fund.
Michael also has extensive experience in South Korea working for government tourism organizations, radio, television, and has organized numerous visits by high-profile delegations, including government and business leaders.
He completed his degree in International Relations, focusing on the Korean Peninsula and East Asian Studies at the University of Calgary, then studied International Trade and Political Science at Kangwon National University in South Korea.
Michael is fluent in Korean and French and enjoys learning Chinese, reading, photography, cooking, skiing and mountain biking.