November 25, 2024 – In celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and the Philippines, Kim Hyon Du, the Minister-Counsellor of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines, delivered a special lecture at West Visayas State University (WVSU) to discuss the longstanding partnership and future prospects between the two nations.
The event was attended by university key officials, students, faculty members, and representatives from both countries, showcased educational dialogues, and a shared vision of fostering deeper understanding. As part of the celebration, WVSU reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing Korean-Philippine ties through academic exchanges, scholarships, and cooperative programs that promote cultural awareness.
Kim highlighted the significant progress made over the past 75 years in diplomatic, economic, and cultural exchanges between Korea and the Philippines. He reflected on how these strong bilateral relations have contributed to mutual growth, underscoring the importance of fostering people-to-people connections and cultural understanding.
“The ties between Korea and the Philippines have strengthened over the decades, not just through diplomacy, but also through cultural exchange and people-to-people connections”, he said. He stressed the importance of education and cultural diplomacy as critical pillars that will define the future relationship between the two countries.
Furthermore, Minister-Counsellor Kim also spoke about the evolving global landscape and the need for stronger partnerships in education, technology, and cultural diplomacy. He reiterated Korea’s commitment to supporting the Philippines in its educational and economic endeavors, particularly in empowering young Filipinos through scholarships and study opportunities in Korea.
The celebration at West Visayas State University was a testament to the enduring friendship between Korea and the Philippines, setting a hopeful tone for the next chapter in bilateral relations.
To note, WVSU has been officially designated as a King Sejong Institute (KSI) in Western Visayas. KSI is an international education program supported by the South Korean government, dedicated to promoting the Korean language and culture around the world. This designation allows WVSU to serve as a regional hub for Korean language education, offering courses and cultural programs that aim to foster deeper understanding and appreciation of Korean heritage.
