Politics

Kojo Choi denies NDC connection

Ghana’s Ambassador-Designate to South Korea, Kojo Choi, has dismissed claims that he is politically aligned with the National Democratic Congress (NDC), despite being appointed by President John Dramani Mahama.

In an interview on Channel One TV on Tuesday, August 12, monitored by Today.com.gh, Mr. Choi emphasised that his professional work and personal relationships cut across political lines, and that his selection was based entirely on merit.

“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 also highlighted his interactions with political figures beyond the NDC, citing former First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo’s attendance at the launch of his art gallery. “Her visit was motivated by her passion for art and her support for my vision to promote emerging artists rather than established ones,” Mr. Choi explained.

“I have always been a quiet entrepreneur,” he added, stressing that he has “never lobbied or sponsored” political causes, with friendships spanning both the NPP and NDC.

Born in South Korea, Mr. Choi moved to Ghana at the age of 14 and became a naturalised Ghanaian citizen. He has since built a life and career deeply rooted in the country, serving as a bridge between Ghana and South Korea culturally and professionally.

His educational journey in Ghana began at SOS Hermann Gmeiner International College in Tema, after which he pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, specialising in Accounting, at the University of Ghana Business School, graduating in 2002.

Professionally, Kojo Choi brings over 20 years of experience across telecommunications, financial technology (Fintech), marketing communications, and business consulting in Ghana and the West African region. 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, MasterCard, and UnionPay, while integrating all major mobile money operators in Ghana. Under his leadership, PaySwitch has become a major player in Ghana’s digital economy.

Beyond Fintech, Mr. Choi has contributed to Ghana’s cultural and sports sectors, founding Art Africa, a gallery in Accra that promotes African artists, and excelling in golf, winning the Men’s Group A title at the 2023 MTN Ghana Invitational Golf Tournament.

Choi’s appointment as Ambassador-Designate to South Korea, officially announced by President Mahama in July 2025, marks a historic milestone as he becomes the first individual of Korean descent to hold such a diplomatic post in Ghana’s Fourth Republic, reflecting his long-standing commitment to national development and international representation.