KUWAIT: South Korea’s Ambassador to Kuwait Chung Byung-ha revealed that the volume of bilateral trade between South Korea and Kuwait reached $12 billion last year. Although the trade was significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is now on a path to recovery. The ambassador expressed optimism about the future of economic relations between the two countries, highlighting ongoing efforts to restore and enhance trade activities. On the sidelines of his farewell ceremony attended by media, officials, and fellow ambassadors, the ambassador expressed his gratitude for the support and cooperation he received during his time in Kuwait, emphasizing the importance of the diplomatic bond between South Korea and Kuwait and reflected on the shared achievements and prospects of this enduring partnership.

The Korean ambassador is to leave at the end of June, revealing that the new ambassador to Kuwait will arrive a week after. “I’m impressed by Kuwaitis who are very open-minded, kind, and I can see the rare humanity deep in everyone’s heart, and that is why Kuwait is highly considered as the humanitarian country for its contributions. Kuwait has great potential, even though I will leave but I will always support Kuwait,” he said.

Long history

During his tenure, the ambassador achieved significant milestones in strengthening the political ties between South Korea and Kuwait. Through continuous dialogues and diplomatic efforts, the ambassador fostered a deeper understanding and cooperation between South Korea and Kuwait, reinforcing their mutual commitment to a prosperous bilateral relationship. “Economically, South Korean companies have a long history of cooperation in Kuwait, and they consider the country as their second home, and they are very proud of contributing to the development of Kuwait. As for people-to-people exchange, I established a Korean language center in Kuwait, which continued to offer cultural events even during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. These initiatives have brought the people of both countries closer together, where Kuwaitis understand Korean culture more now.”

Nuwair, Kuwaiti dialect

The Korean ambassador indicated that Kuwait is a great country. He will recommend it to his friends back home, admiring the summer and winter seasons in Kuwait especially the season of the yellow flowers of Nuwair that will be seen widespread across the country, saying that they symbolize the hope of Kuwait, and the optimism Kuwaitis have for the future. The ambassador also revealed that he was learning the Kuwaiti dialect, emphasizing the importance of the diwaniya as a source of power for the community. He noted that the diwaniya serves as a vital space for exchanging cultures and learning, reflecting the strong social and cultural bonds within Kuwaiti society.