Journalist
Park Sae-jin, Im Yoon-seo
swatchsjp@ajunews.com
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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