The Republic of Korea celebrated its 4357th National Day.

The National Day and the 76th Armed Forces Day of the Republic of Korea were celebrated at the Korean Cultural Centre on 2 October 2024. H.E. Mr Dong Han Yang welcomed members of the diplomatic corps and distinguished guests to the occasion.

South Africa was one of the first countries to support Korea and defend its freedom and democracy during the Korean War.

“Many Koreans have great respect for Madiba. His legacy still inspires many Koreans, including myself,” said H.E. Mr Yang.

Today, South Africa is Korea’s largest trading partner in Africa, while Korea is South Africa’s fifth-largest trading partner in Asia, with bilateral trade having doubled since COVID-19. There is hope to deepen and extend cooperation in various sectors, including nuclear energy, electricity, water resources, health, and education.

Looking ahead, Korea anticipates the second ministerial Joint Cooperation Commission to take place in South Africa later this year, facilitating further discussions on key issues. These include South Africa’s presidency of the G20 summit next year, with Korea ready to collaborate closely in this regard.

On the people-to-people front, there has been incredible growth. Every year, 1,300 young South Africans travel to Korea to teach English. Since the early 2000s, more than 30,000 South African college graduates have been to Korea, enhancing exchanges and fostering shared values and experiences between the two countries.

Truth and friendship characterise the relationship between Korea and South Africa. In 2022, the two countries celebrated 30 years of diplomatic relations, during which robust bilateral ties have been developed through increased high-level exchanges and strengthened economic cooperation. Notably, in June this year, the first-ever Korea-Africa Summit was held, where President Yoon Suk Yeol expressed Korea’s commitment to advancing cooperation with African countries under the vision of a global pivotal state.

There is confidence that the summit will foster shared growth, sustainability, and solidarity, guiding collaborative efforts moving forward.

Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Tandi Moraka, congratulated the Republic of Korea on behalf of the government and people of South Africa.

The relationship between South Africa and the Republic of Korea dates back to the Korean War (1950–1953), during which a 7 Fighter Squadron of the South African Air Force contributed to the United Nations war efforts.

The Republic of Korea is emerging as a global leader in science and technology, particularly in harnessing trust and promoting responsible artificial intelligence initiatives. To strengthen people-to-people engagement, the opening of the Korean Cultural Centre in Pretoria provides an opportunity to showcase Korea’s culture and diversity.

“We hope that the people of the Republic of Korea take pride in the accomplishments of their athletes at the recent 2024 Paris Olympics for achieving a medal tally of 32 in total,” said Minister Moraka.

With a foreign policy vision of becoming a global pivotal state, the Republic of Korea is ranked among the world’s top economic countries. Key aspects underpinning this vision include championing a rules-based international order, universal values such as human rights, and the advancement of peace and prosperity worldwide.

Korea’s contributions to peace and security are recognised, including its role as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and the leadership of Mr Ban Ki-moon during his tenure as UN Secretary-General.

South Africa and the Republic of Korea continue to share cordial bilateral relations structured within the framework of the Joint Commission of Cooperation. Korea is one of South Africa’s major economic partners, with significant investment in the South African economy.

Congratulations were conveyed to the Republic of Korea for successfully hosting the Korea-Africa Summit from 4 to 5 June 2024.

Guests raised their glasses to toast the President and people of the Republic of Korea. The event concluded with an outstanding performance by talented Korean musicians, pianist Kevin Kim and cellist GunWoo Park, who performed the traditional Korean song Arirang.

By Marion Kate