INTERVIEW: Finland and S. Korea seek collaboration opportunities in EV batteries and quantum computing sectors SEOUL, March 11 (AJP) - As Finland and South Korea mark more than 50 years of diplomatic relations, their partnership continues to expand across high-tech industries, sustainability, and cultural exchanges. Ambassador Jyri Järviaho, in an interview at the Embassy of Finland in Seoul on Mar. 5, underscored the growing cooperation between the two nations. Looking back on diplomatic ties that began in 1973, Järviaho noted how the relationship has evolved. "In the early days, Finland’s exports to Korea were focused on textiles and pulp and paper products," he said. "But as both countries developed their economies, the relationship expanded to include mobile technology, ICT, biotechnology, and a wide range of high-tech industries." Finland opened a commercial office in Seoul in 1977 before establishing its embassy in 1986. Beyond economic ties, the ambassador highlighted shared political values between the two nations. "We both uphold democratic values, and in today’s turbulent world, we share a common commitment to a rules-based international order and liberal democracy," he said. Both Finland and South Korea have established themselves as global leaders in technological innovation, particularly in mobile communications. "Korean research institutions are actively participating in 5G and 6G research alongside their Finnish counterparts," Järviaho said. "This is a crucial area of cooperation, as both countries are global leaders in connectivity and telecommunications." The technology sector is not limited to telecommunications. Finland also has a strong presence in the gaming and software industry. "We have a number of successful gaming companies, and there is significant potential for collaboration with Korea’s booming gaming sector," Järviaho said. The ambassador pointed to additional opportunities in semiconductors, shipbuilding, and the automotive industry. "Finland has strong expertise in ship engines and has had long-term engagement with Korea’s shipbuilding sector," he said. "We see many opportunities to work together in areas such as big data handling, quantum computing, and satellite technologies." Finland has also positioned itself as a leader in clean energy, with 96 to 97 percent of its electricity generated from fossil-free sources. The country is expanding its hydrogen energy sector, an area where it sees strong potential for cooperation with South Korea. "We have large-scale plans for hydrogen energy in Finland, thanks to our abundance of clean electricity," Järviaho said. "We are aiming for green hydrogen production, which is crucial for a sustainable energy transition." The ambassador highlighted Finland's role in EV battery production and recycling. "We have natural materials required for battery production, and we are working on building a circular economy around EV battery recycling," he said. "Given Korea's leadership in electric vehicle manufacturing, we see strong potential for cooperation in this field." When asked about investment opportunities for Korean businesses, Järviaho pointed to Finland’s EV battery sector as a key area of interest. "We have the ecosystem, raw materials, and technology to support battery production and recycling," he said. "This could be a strategic opportunity for Korean companies looking to diversify their supply chains." Quantum computing is another promising field for collaboration, with Finnish company IQM recently installing a quantum computer at Chungbuk National University. "This marks a significant step in research collaboration between our countries," the ambassador said. "Finland has a strong quantum research base, and we see this as a promising area for future cooperation." The defense industry is also gaining traction in bilateral cooperation. "Finland recently purchased K9 howitzers from Korea," Järviaho said. "We are looking to build on that cooperation and explore further opportunities in defense technology." Cultural exchanges between Finland and South Korea continue to grow, supported by daily direct flights between Incheon and Helsinki. "These flights play a vital role in fostering business, tourism, and cultural exchanges," Järviaho said. Korean pop culture has gained traction in Finland, while Finnish culture is becoming more recognized in South Korea. "Korean drama, music, and entertainment are extremely popular in Finland," he said. "At the same time, Finnish brands such as Iittala and Artek are recognized in Korea, and Finnish artists regularly showcase their work in Seoul." One of the major cultural highlights this year is the 80th anniversary of the Moomin character, a Finnish creation beloved worldwide. "We are excited to introduce more Moomin-related cultural events to Korean audiences," Järviaho said. The National Library of Children and Young Adults in Seoul will host a Finnish children's book exhibition this summer, featuring Moomin books. Education is another key pillar of cooperation. The Finnish Embassy in Seoul is working with the Seoul Metropolitan Government to introduce Finland to local students. "We visit high schools and middle schools, sharing insights about Finnish culture and education," Järviaho said. "We also try to engage students with small gifts, such as Moomin dolls and traditional Finnish souvenirs." While Finland does not have a state-run student exchange program with Korea, Finnish universities actively recruit Korean students. "There is a growing number of Finnish students studying in Korea, and we also have Korean students in Finland," the ambassador said. "We believe a European-level program could further encourage student exchanges." Looking ahead, Finland and South Korea are committed to strengthening ties across multiple sectors. In June 2025, the Finnish Embassy will host the Finland-South Korea Innovation Forum, focusing on technology and business collaboration. "We want to provide a platform for Finnish and Korean companies, researchers, and institutions to connect," Järviaho said. From political cooperation to economic security and technology, Finland views South Korea as a key partner in navigating global challenges. "Both of our countries have faced difficult times in history and emerged as highly developed nations," the ambassador said. "We share a strong mutual respect, and that is a great foundation for continued cooperation." 2025-03-11 15:08:35

Nearly 30 percent of new hires at major firms have work experiences: Survey SEOUL, March 02 (AJP) - Nearly three in ten newly hired university graduates at major South Korean companies last year had prior work experience, reflecting a growing preference for experienced candidates. According to a survey by the Korea Economic Research Institute (KERI) on major companies' hiring plans for the first half of 2025, released on Sunday, 28.9 percent of newly hired university graduates in 2024 had prior work experience. This marks a 3.2 percentage point increase from 2023, when the proportion stood at 25.7 percent. Among these experienced new hires, the most common length of prior experience was one to two years, accounting for 50.8 percent. This was followed by six months to one year at 32.2 percent, two to three years at 8.5 percent, more than three years at 5.1 percent, and less than six months at 3.4 percent. The proportion of experienced hires in major firms' overall recruitment has also increased. In the first half of 2025, experienced hires are expected to make up 31.2 percent of all university graduate recruitments, up 3.1 percentage points from the same period last year. Companies where experienced hires accounted for more than 50 percent of new recruits made up the largest share at 23.8 percent, a sharp rise from 8.1 percent the previous year The average starting salary for university graduates at major companies was recorded at 46.69 million won ($31,913.8), an increase of 1.65 million won from 45.04 million won the previous year. The most common salary range was between 45 million and 50 million won at 27.8 percent, followed by 40 million to 45 million won and 50 million to 55 million won, both at 23.8 percent. 2025-03-02 14:22:44

India-S. Korea conference explores new horizons in bilateral relations SEOUL, March 02 (AJP) - The Embassy of India in the Republic of Korea, in collaboration with the Sejong Institute and the Asia Foundation, hosted a conference titled "Bridging the Future: Exploring New Horizons in Korea-India Relations" at the Sejong Institute Conference Room in central Seoul on Feb. 27. The event brought together around 60 government officials, scholars, media representatives, and business leaders to discuss key aspects of the India-Korea partnership. Ambassador of India to South Korea Amit Kumar, Sejong Institute Chairman Yong-Joon Lee, and Deputy Minister for Economic Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Kim Hee-sang attended the event. In his welcome remarks, Chairman Lee underscored India's role as a key partner for South Korea in promoting peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. Ambassador Kumar highlighted the growing importance of the India-South Korea Special Strategic Partnership in light of shifting geopolitical dynamics, noting the deepening bilateral ties and emerging areas of cooperation. Deputy Minister Kim emphasized the significance of Korea-India relations amid evolving global challenges. The conference featured four sessions covering diverse topics: India and South Korea’s role in the changing global order, building resilient supply chains, maritime security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, and collaboration in emerging technologies. Panelists from both countries shared insights on economic partnerships, security cooperation, and technological advancements. In his remarks, Ambassador Kumar addressed the broader geopolitical landscape, stating, "We are today undeniably in an era of significant flux in global geopolitics and geo-economics. The developments in Afghanistan, the Covid-19 pandemic, conflict in Ukraine and in the Middle East amidst greater strategic contestation between major powers have all strained the global architecture." He added that these disruptions have impacted supply chains, food security, and energy resources, disproportionately affecting developing nations. Highlighting India’s economic growth and increasing role in global trade, Kumar said, "India with its rapid economic growth trajectory with an annual average rate of 7 percent post-Covid is today well poised to become an integral hub for global supply chains." He pointed to major economic shifts, including India's focus on manufacturing, digital transformation, and infrastructure upgrades. He also noted key developments such as the Korea Investment Corporation opening an office in India, Hyundai Motor Group’s first overseas stock listing in India, and POSCO’s joint venture with JSW to establish a large-scale steel plant. Discussing security cooperation, Kumar stressed India’s contributions to maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in response to regional crises. "For more than a year now, India has also been contributing to maritime security through deployment of naval forces in response to attacks on shipping lines in the Red Sea," he said. He also highlighted India’s role in disaster relief efforts and crisis response across the Indian Ocean region, mentioning operations in Yemen, Sri Lanka, Mozambique, and Nepal. On strengthening Indo-Pacific security partnerships, Kumar noted, "It is essential that we develop greater maritime domain awareness," emphasizing India's efforts in linking regional maritime security centers and training naval forces in multiple countries. He encouraged South Korea to consider joining regional security initiatives such as the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative and the Indian Ocean Rim Association. The conference concluded with active discussions on expanding economic ties, technological collaboration, and strengthening regional security frameworks. Participants engaged in Q&A sessions, exchanging perspectives on future opportunities for bilateral cooperation. 2025-03-02 14:07:41

Russian Embassy in Seoul celebrates Maslenitsa with traditional performances SEOUL, March 02 (AJP) - The Russian Embassy in the Republic of Korea hosted a Maslenitsa celebration on February 28, bringing together students, diplomats, and guests for a day of cultural festivities. The event was attended by about 100 guests, including Russian embassy officials and their families, as well as representatives from other foreign embassies. Students from the Russian school at the embassy performed traditional songs and dances, showcasing Russian heritage. As part of the celebration, they invited children from a Seoul-based orphanage to participate in games and share special festive foods, fostering cultural exchange and community spirit. Irina Serova, headmaster of the Russian school, welcomed the participants and highlighted the festival's joyful spirit, saying, "Let us truly sing, play, and dance as we celebrate and welcome the arrival of spring!" Maslenitsa, a traditional Slavic festival marking the end of winter, is celebrated with music, dance, and the sharing of pancakes, symbolizing the arrival of spring. 2025-03-02 12:05:11

INTERVIEW: Ambassador highlights Luxembourg as entry point to Europe for S. Korean businessmen SEOUL, February 27 (AJP) - Luxembourg and South Korea are strengthening their ties through shared democratic values, strategic economic cooperation, and growing cultural exchanges. At the Luxembourg Embassy in central Seoul on February 20, Ambassador Jacques Flies spoke about the evolving relationship between the two nations and his hopes for the future. "We are countries that believe in the same values—democracy, human rights, and the rule of law," Ambassador Flies said. "This shared commitment to the international rules-based order forms the backbone of our partnership." His remarks reflected Luxembourg’s unwavering support for global stability and security, emphasizing the interconnectedness of regional peace. "Stability in Europe matters to Korea, just as stability on the Korean Peninsula matters to Europe," he added. Ambassador Flies highlighted the historical bond between the two countries, rooted in Luxembourg’s participation as one of the 16 combatant nations in the Korean War. "This shared history is a foundational element of our relationship," he explained. "I am always touched by how Korea continues to honor this legacy." He noted that this connection has been preserved through academic research, exhibitions, and cultural events that celebrate the stories of Luxembourg volunteers who served during the war. The ambassador emphasized the cultural and people-to-people ties that have grown stronger over the years. He praised South Korea’s vibrant cultural scene and expressed enthusiasm for expanding cultural exchanges, particularly among young artists. "There is immense potential for collaboration in arts and culture," he said. "I would like to see more Luxembourg artists showcasing their work in Korea and vice versa." He also discussed the recently established Working Holiday Program, which allows young people from both countries to live and work in the other for up to one year. Ambassador Flies expressed confidence that this program would deepen mutual understanding and strengthen the bridge between the two nations. "Young people are the future of our bilateral relations," he noted. Economic cooperation is another pillar of Luxembourg-South Korea relations. Luxembourg is one of Europe’s leading financial hubs and the second-largest investment fund center in the world. "Luxembourg is a gateway to the European market for Korean companies," said Ambassador Flies. He highlighted the recent recognition of the Luxembourg Stock Exchange as a major overseas market for Korean issuers, which simplifies the listing process and makes Luxembourg an attractive platform for international bonds. He also emphasized Luxembourg’s leadership in green and sustainable finance, noting that the Luxembourg Green Exchange holds the world’s largest market share of listed green bonds. "We need sustainable finance to tackle global challenges like climate change," he said. "Luxembourg offers a unique platform for responsible investment, and Korean issuers are welcome to explore these opportunities." Luxembourg is also positioning itself as a tech and innovation hub, with a growing focus on FinTech and startups. The ambassador pointed to ongoing collaborations with Korea’s startup ecosystem through programs like Fit for Start and partnerships with the Global Digital Innovation Network. "We want to build bridges between Korea and Luxembourg for startups and tech companies," he said. Ambassador Flies noted the strategic importance of nurturing bilateral relations through economic and technological collaboration. "Our economies are both future-oriented and innovation-driven," he said. "There is great potential for cooperation in sectors like green technology, digital finance, and space exploration." Reflecting on Luxembourg’s multicultural identity, Ambassador Flies explained that the country’s openness is rooted in its history of immigration. "We are a multilingual society where most people are fluent in three to four languages," he said. "Luxembourg’s international character is shaped by waves of immigration, which have enriched our identity and made us a vibrant, inclusive society." He concluded by expressing his optimism about the future of Luxembourg-South Korea relations. "We may be geographically distant, but our partnership is close and growing stronger every day," he said. "I look forward to seeing how our collaboration will continue to evolve, guided by shared values, strategic cooperation, and cultural exchanges." 2025-02-27 14:44:57

INTERVIEW: Kazakh envoy highlights growing collaboration opportunities in tech and commerce sectors SEOUL, February 26 (AJP) - Kazakhstan and South Korea share a bond that goes beyond diplomacy, rooted in deep historical ties, cultural connections, and growing economic collaboration. In an exclusive interview with Nurgali Arystanov, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Korea, the envoy emphasized the importance of strengthening these ties while looking to the future of bilateral relations. The relationship between Kazakhstan and South Korea is unique, marked by a shared history and strong cultural connections. Around 120,000 ethnic Koreans, known as Koryo-saram, live in Kazakhstan, forming one of the largest Korean communities outside of the Korean Peninsula. These ethnic Koreans were deported from far eastern areas of the Soviet Union in the 1930s, and since then, they have become an integral part of Kazakh society, contributing to the nation’s economic, cultural, and political landscape. Ambassador Arystanov noted, "These ethnic Koreans are not just part of Kazakhstan; they are a bridge connecting the two nations. Their deep-rooted cultural heritage and love for Korea and Kazakhstan create a natural bond that enhances people-to-people ties between our countries." This shared heritage is also celebrated through cultural initiatives, including performances by the Republican Korean Theatre in Almaty, joint film festivals, and collaborative art exhibitions. The Kazakhstan-Korea Commission for Cultural Cooperation continues to play a vital role in strengthening these cultural ties. Kazakhstan’s foreign policy is anchored in a balanced and pragmatic approach, promoting peace, stability, and economic cooperation. In 2025, Kazakhstan is focusing on regional stability, economic diplomacy, and deepening cooperation with key partners, including South Korea. The ambassador emphasized Kazakhstan’s multi-vector foreign policy, which prioritizes strategic partnerships and economic cooperation. Kazakhstan is actively involved in international organizations such as the United Nations, Organization of Turkic States (OTS), and CICA and continues to engage with South Korea on regional security and economic issues. Kazakhstan’s strategic partnership with South Korea was further strengthened during President Yoon Suk Yeol’s visit to Astana in 2024. Ambassador Arystanov highlighted this visit as a turning point, saying, "The visit of President Yoon marked a new chapter in our bilateral relations, setting the stage for expanded cooperation in trade, technology, and cultural exchange." South Korea is a crucial partner for Kazakhstan, contributing significantly to its economic and technological growth. South Korea is the 4th largest investor in Kazakhstan, with more than 740 South Korean companies operating in the country, including major players like Hyundai, KIA, Samsung, and CU. Ambassador Arystanov stated, "South Korea is not just an economic partner; it is a trusted friend. Our cooperation extends beyond trade and investment, encompassing innovation, technology transfer, and cultural exchange. We see South Korea as a key contributor to our economic diversification and digital transformation." The depth of this partnership is evident in the high-level diplomatic engagements. In addition to President Yoon’s visit, other significant visits in 2024 included the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan to South Korea, as well as visits by the Minister of Transport and the Minister of Energy. These visits resulted in concrete agreements, including the signing of a Cooperation Action Plan for 2025~2027, outlining joint initiatives in strategic areas like energy, infrastructure, and education. Kazakhstan and South Korea have identified several sectors with significant potential for collaboration. Automotive and electronics sectors are at the forefront, with South Korean giants Hyundai and KIA expanding their manufacturing presence in Kazakhstan, with plans to produce vehicles locally. Samsung is also set to start producing smart TVs and other home appliances in Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan is rapidly advancing in smart city technologies, fintech, AI, and industrial automation. Collaborations include an AI School at Korkyt Ata Kyzylorda University, established in partnership with SeoulTech, to cultivate a new generation of AI specialists. The popularity of K-beauty products is growing rapidly in Kazakhstan, creating opportunities for collaboration in product distribution, joint ventures, and localized product lines. The South Korean convenience store chain CU has rapidly expanded in Kazakhstan, with 24 stores currently operating and plans to open 500 stores in the coming years. These stores are not just retail outlets but cultural hubs showcasing K-food, K-beauty, and K-lifestyle products. For South Korean businesses, Kazakhstan offers vast opportunities in green energy, smart cities, digital economy, manufacturing, and infrastructure development. Ambassador Arystanov emphasized that Kazakhstan is a gateway to the Eurasian market, offering access to 180 million consumers in the region. On the other hand, Kazakh entrepreneurs are increasingly exploring opportunities in South Korea’s advanced technology, innovation, and e-commerce sectors. The ambassador noted, "We encourage Kazakh startups to engage with South Korea’s dynamic startup ecosystem, particularly in AI, fintech, and industrial automation." Emphasizing that Kazakh and South Korean citizens are known for bold initiatives, the envoy called for bold actions to pursue joint ventures. The Astana International Financial Center (AIFC) and the Alem.AI Artificial Intelligence Center are key platforms supporting this collaboration, providing a conducive environment for innovation and entrepreneurship. Cultural exchange remains at the heart of Kazakhstan-South Korea relations, and this is particularly evident in the music industry. K-pop has a massive following in Kazakhstan, influencing local music trends. Kazakh artists, such as Dimash Kudaibergen and Imanbek, have gained international recognition, blending traditional Kazakh elements with modern pop influences, much like K-pop. Ambassador Arystanov expressed his enthusiasm for this cultural phenomenon, stating, "Q-pop (Kazakh pop) is not just music; it is a cultural bridge that connects the youth of Kazakhstan and South Korea. We see it as a powerful tool for cultural diplomacy and people-to-people ties." Connectivity is also enhanced by a growing number of direct flights. On April 7, Eastar Jet will launch two flights per week to Almaty. Kazakhstan offers 30-day visa-free visits to South Korean travelers. Also, Neo Nomad Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, and Permanent Residence Visa are launched recently to facilitate remote working and encourage travelers to visit new destinations. The ambassador also highlighted the cultural similarities between the two nations, noting that both languages belong to the Ural-Altaic language group, making their grammar and structure quite similar. He added, "The cultural affinity between our nations is deep-rooted, reflected in our shared history, traditions, and even music." Kazakhstan and South Korea are poised to achieve new milestones in their strategic partnership. As both nations focus on innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable development, the opportunities for collaboration are limitless. Ambassador Arystanov concluded the interview by emphasizing Kazakhstan’s commitment to this partnership, "We are optimistic about the future of Kazakhstan-South Korea relations. With shared values, common goals, and strong people-to-people ties, our strategic partnership is set to grow even stronger." 2025-02-26 10:53:39

Fathers make up over 30 percent of parental leave users in South Korea for the first time SEOUL, February 23 (AJP) - For the first time, more than 30 percent of all parental leave users in South Korea were fathers last year, showing that more men are willing to take time off to care for their children. According to the Ministry of Employment and Labor on Sunday, 256,771 people used work-life balance programs, such as maternity and parental leave, in 2024. This is an increase of 7.2 percent compared to the previous year. In South Korea, it is still uncommon for men to take parental leave, as traditional gender roles and workplace culture often discourage fathers from taking time off for childcare. Many men worry about being judged or facing negative career consequences. Out of all parental leave users, 132,535 people took time off to care for their children, up 5.2 percent from the previous year. Men made up 41,829 of these users, accounting for 31.6 percent—the first time men have exceeded 30 percent since the policy was introduced. In 2023, men accounted for 28 percent. In 2015, only about 5 percent of men took parental leave. This means the number has increased nearly ninefold in just nine years. This trend continues in 2025. In the first month of the year, the number of men taking parental leave rose by 69.2 percent compared to the same period last year. This is higher than the overall increase in parental leave users, which was 42.6 percent. Most parents are taking leave when their children are under 12 months old. Eighty percent of women and about 47 percent of men took leave during their child’s first year. More than half of parental leave users worked at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Around 45 percent worked at companies with fewer than 100 employees. The average length of parental leave was about 9 months for women and 8 months for men. More people are also choosing to reduce their working hours instead of taking full parental leave. Last year, about 26,600 people used this option, up by 14.8 percent from the previous year. This increase is nearly three times higher than the growth rate for full parental leave users. This option was especially popular among SME employees, who made up nearly two-thirds of all users—higher than the proportion of SME employees taking full parental leave. Minister of Employment and Labor Kim Moon-soo said in a statement: "We are dedicated to ensuring that all working parents can balance their careers and family responsibilities without worry. We will do our best to make sure the expanded work-life balance policies introduced this year are effectively implemented in workplaces." 2025-02-23 16:04:32

INTERVIEW: World-OKTA committed to empowering Korean businesses to go global SEOUL, February 23 (AJP) - World-OKTA (World Federation of Overseas Korean Traders Associations) plays a pivotal role in connecting South Korean entrepreneurs worldwide and supporting the global expansion of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Established in 1981 by South Korean entrepreneurs working abroad to promote exports and economic growth, the organization now operates in 151 cities across 71 countries. With approximately 7,000 full members and 32,000 associate members, World-OKTA serves as a vital network for overseas Korean entrepreneurs. Park Jong-bum, the chairman of World-OKTA, explained during an interview with AJP on February 21, "Our core mission is to strengthen networking among overseas Korean entrepreneurs, helping Korean SMEs explore global markets and boost exports." World-OKTA is more than just an economic network; it is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of Korean entrepreneurs. Park noted, "As the first generation of Korean entrepreneurs overseas, we faced challenges in adapting to local societies. It is crucial to support the second generation and future leaders so they can participate more seamlessly in economic activities and social advancement." To achieve this, World-OKTA offers educational programs tailored to the next generation of South Korean traders, laying the foundation for them to become global business leaders. A flagship initiative by World-OKTA is the "Korea Business Expo," an essential platform that facilitates international market entry for South Korean SMEs. Held every April and October, the expo brings together SMEs and overseas Korean entrepreneurs for business consultations and networking opportunities. This year, the "2025 Korea Business Expo" will take place in Andong in April and Incheon in October. Park explained, "Through the events in Andong and Incheon, we aim to enhance the competitiveness of Korean SMEs in global markets and maximize export outcomes through effective business consultations with international buyers." The Andong expo in April will feature 250 booths, including 100 companies from North Gyeongsang Province and Andong, along with 150 World-OKTA member companies. "About 250 South Korean SMEs will participate, with around 200 international buyers and over 1,000 businesspeople attending for business consultations," Park said. He added, "We are also planning cultural programs to provide attendees with an opportunity to experience Andong’s traditional culture, creating a unique event that blends economic and cultural elements." In October, the expo will move to Songdo, Incheon, branded as the "2025 Korea Business Expo Incheon." It will offer a wide range of programs and business-matching opportunities for Korean SMEs looking to expand globally. Reflecting on the success of the 2024 Korea Business Expo in Vienna, which generated MOUs worth approximately USD 178 million, Park expressed high expectations, stating, "We anticipate even greater achievements at the upcoming Incheon event." Park concluded, "World-OKTA is a reliable business partner for Korean SMEs looking to expand abroad. We will continue to strengthen the network of overseas Korean entrepreneurs and actively support Korean SMEs in becoming competitive players on the global stage." 2025-02-23 12:56:48

INTERVIEW: Venezuelan envoy stresses now is time to shape next 60 years of relations with South Korea SEOUL, February 18 (AJP) - As Venezuela and South Korea mark the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic ties this year, Venezuelan Chargé d'Affaires Isabel Di Carlo Quero emphasized the importance of reflecting on past achievements and defining a vision for the future of the bilateral relationship. Reflecting on the significance of the anniversary, Di Carlo Quero likened diplomatic relations to human relationships that require renewal and commitment. "This 60th anniversary represents a time for reflection. In any relationship, whether personal or diplomatic, you need to decide how to continue and what the next stage will look like," the envoy said during an interview with AJP on Feb. 13. She noted that both nations have undergone significant changes in recent years, including Venezuela’s economic recovery and South Korea’s evolving political landscape. "It is important that, despite past challenges, we restore communication and determine what we want for the next stage of our relations," she stressed. One area of growing bilateral engagement is sports diplomacy, with Venezuela set to host the Caribbean Baseball League in 2026. Di Carlo Quero revealed that South Korea has expressed interest in being invited to the tournament scheduled to be held in Caracas. "I was fascinated when I heard the news because this would be fantastic for both countries," she said, pointing to the success of previous baseball exchanges, such as Cuba’s participation in a friendly match with South Korea. Economic cooperation is also gaining momentum, particularly in the beauty and cosmetics sector. "Venezuela is a land where beauty is highly appreciated. We have won seven Miss Universe crowns, and there is a strong demand for high-quality cosmetics," the envoy said. "South Korean beauty products have already entered the Venezuelan market, and many K-beauty brands are opening stores in Venezuela. It’s a revolution. People wanting to try new products and cosmetics have become a major investment area." Beyond cosmetics, Venezuela is looking to attract more business investments. Di Carlo Quero highlighted an upcoming "Expo Metal" event in March, which will showcase the country's mineral resources to potential international investors, including South Korea. "All the major Venezuelan companies in this sector will participate, opening up opportunities for business partnerships," she explained. "South Korea is already working with India on similar initiatives, so why not Venezuela? There is a space for competition and cooperation." Di Carlo Quero emphasized that Venezuela and South Korea share strong artistic and cultural ties, pointing to past collaborations such as last year’s musical exchange program in Seoul. "We worked with the community center in Seongbuk, near Seoul, and brought a Venezuelan conductor, Freddy Silva, to teach and conduct the 'Orchestra of Dreams,' a project inspired by El Sistema," she said. The month-and-a-half-long initiative involved collaboration with South Korean conductor Moon Jin-tak, creating a meaningful experience for young musicians. "It was a beautiful experience," she recalled. "The musicians had the chance to learn from a conductor with a different language and style, which broadened their perspectives. At the end-of-year concert, they performed both Venezuelan and Korean pieces, showcasing the richness of cultural exchange." Di Carlo Quero said that economic and cultural exchanges ultimately serve a greater purpose -- improving people’s lives. "At the end of the day, what do we want? We want our people to live well, to have security, good nutrition, and opportunities to be happy," she said. "As President Maduro said, ‘I will make a decree for the joy of the people.’ Because that’s what matters most, ensuring that people can live with dignity and happiness." As Venezuela and South Korea move forward, Di Carlo Quero sees this milestone as a turning point to shape the next chapter of bilateral relations. "We are not on the same team such as BRICS or other regional or economic groups, but we are not enemies either," she said. "This is the moment to find ways to understand each other, to cooperate, and to build a future together." 2025-02-18 15:55:47

CES Insight & Innovation Awards honor top Korean innovators SEOUL, February 12 (AJP) - The 2025 CES Insight & Innovation Awards recognized leading Korean companies that have demonstrated technological excellence and global competitiveness at CES 2025. Hosted by Aju News Corporation and its English-language news agency AJP, the event took place at the Korea Press Center in Seoul, celebrating businesses that are driving innovation across industries. This year’s awardees include Koo Ja-kwan, chairman of Samkoo INC, recognized for his leadership in industrial innovation, and Kim Byung-hyun, president of Soosan Heavy Industries. Also honored were Kim Min-jong, vice president of Saltlux, Lee Jung-soo, CEO of Flitto, and Choi Hong-jun, vice president of Upstage, all of whom have played key roles in advancing AI, language technology, and digital transformation. The award winners were selected based on their contributions to artificial intelligence, smart mobility, industrial automation, and digital solutions, aligning with emerging trends in global technology. Many of the honored companies gained significant attention at CES 2025, showcasing pioneering solutions that have positioned them as key players in the international market. The event also featured a CES 2025 Debriefing session, where industry leaders and experts analyzed the latest technology trends and their implications for Korean businesses seeking global expansion. “The CES Insight & Innovation Awards were established to recognize and celebrate Korean companies making a difference in the global market," a representative from Aju News Corporation said. "These awardees represent the future of innovation, and we are proud to highlight their achievements on this international stage.” The event was supported by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, the INNOBIZ Association, and the Seoul Economic Promotion Agency, serving as a platform for Korean enterprises to enhance their international visibility and competitiveness. 2025-02-12 16:24:33