Kuwait, South Korea mark 60 years of strong ties
KUWAIT CITY, Feb 12: South Korean Ambassador to Kuwait Park Chong-suk praised the strength of Kuwaiti-South Korean relations, stressing that they are a model for fruitful cooperation at various levels, noting that these relations are distinctive and developed as they are based on foundations of friendship, trust and mutual respect between the two countries. Park explained that diplomatic relations between Kuwait and South Korea were officially established in 1979, but cooperation between them began years before that, as cooperation in the construction sector dates back to 1975, while cooperation in the energy sector began in 1964. 'In 2024, the two countries celebrated the 60th anniversary of cooperation in the energy sector,' he added. He pointed out that the year 2025 is considered a milestone on the path of cooperation, as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of South Korean companies winning the first construction project in Kuwait. He added that South Korean companies played a vital role in developing the country's basic infrastructure, contributing to the construction of major projects, such as the First and Sixth Ring Roads, Highway 30, and Jaber Bridge, which have become a symbol of the close coordination between the two sides.
He stressed that Kuwaiti-South Korean cooperation is expanding to include new areas with a strategic dimension, in line with Kuwait Vision 2035. 'South Korean companies are participating in many future projects, including the operation of the passenger terminal (T4) at Kuwait International Airport, the development of new cities, smart farms, fiber optic cable factories, and the healthcare sector, with expectations of further expansion in these areas in the coming years,' he disclosed. Regarding the embassy's plans for this year, he revealed that the embassy intends to celebrate the 50th anniversary of cooperation in the construction sector, by organizing various events to enhance bilateral relations, including high-level exchanges and economic activities like the Smart City Forum. He affirmed that cultural and sporting events will also be organized, including the Ambassador Taekwondo Championship, the Korean Food Festival, the Film Festival, and cultural competitions, in addition to activities dedicated to studying and tourism in South Korea, to enhance mutual understanding between the two peoples. He concluded his statement by emphasizing the importance of these events in strengthening the bonds of cooperation between the two countries, as well as developing cultural and economic exchange, which contribute to pushing bilateral relations toward broader horizons.
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