G20

South Korea ready for G20

South Koreans have long felt that the world only sees them through the lens of the conflict with their unruly neighbour to the north.

That is why, for the democratic nation of 48 million, the G20 summit offers an opportune moment to enjoy the spotlight alone.

"Korea will come into global focus as a host of the G20 summit and, by taking on that responsibility, will become a genuinely developed nation," South Korea's president, Lee Myung-Bak, said.

That South Korea is capable of being a leader among industrialized nations, is an impression the country is eager to leave with the 32 visiting heads of government and international organizations.

Already Korean officials have been applauded for getting the world's finance ministers to agree to try and avoid a currency war in pre-G20 meetings held late last month.  A final declaration is expected during the summit itself.