KUWAIT CITY, Nov 5: Relations between Kuwait and the Republic of Korea represent a true model of friendship and a growing partnership grounded in mutual respect and trust, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Kuwait, Counselor Kim Heejin, said on Tuesday.

Speaking at a ceremony marking Korea’s National Foundation Day and Armed Forces Day, Kim highlighted the depth of the historical ties and bonds of solidarity that unite the two friendly nations. The event was attended by Kuwait’s Minister of State for Municipal Affairs and Minister of State for Housing Affairs, Abdul Latif Al-Mashari; the representative of the Ministry of Defense and Commander of the Air Defense Force, Brigadier General Firas Al-Qattan; as well as several dignitaries and diplomats.

Kim noted that Kuwait and Korea have long stood together in the face of challenges, recalling Korea’s support for Kuwait during the 1990 Iraqi invasion, which included financial assistance and the deployment of medical and air units to aid the Kuwaiti people.

She stated that bilateral relations have grown remarkably over the years across various sectors, driven by a shared vision for progress and prosperity. Both countries, she said, are united by deeply rooted humanitarian values built on cooperation and mutual respect.

Kim observed that the world is currently facing new and rapidly evolving challenges stemming from technological advances and geopolitical divisions, stressing the need for pragmatic and flexible diplomacy founded on constructive dialogue. She reaffirmed Korea’s commitment to continuing such cooperation with the international community.

Expressing her country’s appreciation for Kuwait’s balanced foreign policy and its extensive humanitarian role in the region, Kim commended Kuwait’s efforts to assist those affected by the crisis in Gaza. She emphasized that this shared commitment to peace and compassion strengthens the partnership between Kuwait and Korea and contributes to building a more stable and interconnected world.

Highlighting Korea’s post-war transformation, Kim said her nation’s resilience and innovation have made it a global leader in technology, development, and culture. She drew parallels between the Korean and Kuwaiti experiences in overcoming challenges, saying both nations have shown that true strength lies not only in prosperity but in the determination of their people.

Kim also pointed out that Korea’s vision presented at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in Gyeongju—under the theme “Building a Sustainable Tomorrow: Connect, Innovate, and Prosper”—aligns with Kuwait’s Vision 2035, which centers on human development and innovation.

She added that relations between Kuwait and Korea extend beyond government institutions, with growing Kuwaiti interest in Korean culture, including language, music, film, and cuisine. Shared social values such as family unity and respect, she said, make cultural exchange between the two societies natural and enduring.

Concluding her remarks, Kim expressed hope for further cooperation between Kuwait and Korea in empowering youth and fostering innovation, stating, “The bridge we are building is not just a bridge to development, but a bridge of friendship and shared hopes, connecting the achievements of the past with the aspirations of the future.”

The Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea to the State of Kuwait, Counselor Kim Heejin, welcomed the guests of the ceremony.