SEOUL, May 22 (AJP) - The French-South Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry launched its 40th anniversary commemorative book at the National Assembly in Seoul, signaling a deepening of economic ties as the two nations mark 140 years of diplomatic relations. The exclusive reception gathered approximately 80 diplomats, lawmakers, and business leaders to celebrate the historical evolution of the bilateral partnership.
The event, organized with the support of the South Korea-France Parliamentary Friendship Association, comes ahead of a major operational expansion for the business group. The chamber announced it will open its own standalone building, the French South Korea EcoMaison, in the Gangnam district of Seoul this September. The new multifunctional facility will be fully dedicated to supporting the corporate community.
During the ceremony, South Korean officials and French representatives emphasized the importance of continued cross-border cooperation in innovation, culture, and commerce. Na Kyung-won, the chair of the parliamentary friendship association, delivered opening remarks alongside French Ambassador Philippe Bertoux and chamber Chairman David-Pierre Jalicon. Park Young-sun, the former minister of small and medium enterprises and startups, followed the speeches with a celebratory toast.
The commemorative publication retraces the history of bilateral relations, tracing the timeline from the 1886 Treaty of Friendship and Commerce to modern strategic partnerships. It highlights collaboration across several key sectors, including artificial intelligence, biotechnology, mobility, and green energy. Jalicon praised the contributors at the event, noting that the volume reflects the long-term dedication of the local business community.
"This year should not only be an achievement, but the renewal of our ambition," Jalicon said regarding the upcoming Gangnam hub. He added that the new facility will serve as a dynamic space for future collaborative projects between the two countries.
Ambassador Bertoux also stressed the global potential of the partnership, stating that the shared economic dynamism of both nations will position them to play an increasingly important role on the international stage. The diplomatic event concluded with a special celebration performance by the Orchestre national Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes.
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