Sunday 29 / September / 2024
Muscat: South Korea is commemorating 50 years of diplomatic relations with Oman in 2024 through a series of high-profile bilateral engagements, cultural showcases, and sporting events.
Organised by the South Korean Embassy in Muscat, the celebrations reflect the depth of this long standing relationship, which has grown across political, economic, and cultural spheres since the two countries established diplomatic ties in 1974.
The year-long festivities began in May with the unveiling of a commemorative logo, followed by a reception hosted by South Korean Ambassador Kiejoo Kim.
The event honoured the achievements of Oman’s youth taekwondo team, who secured medals at the GCC Youth Games.
Speaking at a recent luncheon with local media, Ambassador Kim outlined the events scheduled for the remainder of the year.
He emphasised the robust bilateral relationship, especially in the context of global efforts to achieve Net Zero emissions.
“Korea is proud to be Oman’s third-largest trading partner, and our cooperation is a reflection of shared goals in sustainability, economic growth, and cultural exchange,” he said.
Strengthening economic and environmental ties
The celebrations have featured a variety of events aimed at enhancing bilateral ties.
A key highlight was the Korean-Oman Green Industry Business Meet, held in September, which underscored both nations’ commitment to sustainable development and green energy transitions.
The forum explored opportunities for collaboration in renewable energy, environmental technology, and infrastructure aligned with Oman’s Vision 2040.
In discussing future plans, Ambassador Kim highlighted the recent Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between South Korea and the GCC countries, which is expected to enhance trade and investment between the two regions.
"This agreement is a major step toward expanding economic cooperation, with a strong emphasis on energy, technology, and sustainable development," he said.
In 2023, bilateral trade between the two nations reached US$5.8 billion, with Oman’s exports to Korea primarily consisting of gas, crude oil, naphtha, and petrochemical products.
South Korea's exports to Oman include polycarboxylic acids, steel, vehicles, heavy construction equipment, and electronic goods.
Notably, South Korea invested approximately US$802 million in Oman between 1997 and 2003, while Oman’s investments in South Korea totaled around US$8.7 million between 2004 and 2023.
Cultural diplomacy: A key pillar of celebrations
The celebrations also place a strong emphasis on cultural diplomacy, with several high-profile cultural events lined up.
A standout event was the recent performance by the internationally acclaimed Korean band ADG7, that took place on September 25 at the prestigious Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel.
Known for blending traditional Korean music with modern sounds, ADG7’s performance attracted a diverse audience and showcased Korea’s rich cultural heritage.
From October 24-26, the Korea-Oman Taekwondo Championship for the Korean Ambassador’s Cup will be held at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex, providing a platform for sports diplomacy and further deepening the cultural exchange between the two nations.
Taekwondo, as one of Korea's most recognised cultural exports, has become a symbol of the close ties between South Korea and Oman, particularly in youth engagement and sporting collaboration.
In addition, the Korean National Day reception is scheduled for October 27 at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, a diplomatic event that will further highlight the progress made over the past five decades.
The celebrations will conclude with the highly anticipated Korea-Oman Business Forum in December, aimed at fostering stronger commercial ties and future partnerships.
Future-oriented cooperation in technology and innovation
South Korea’s leadership in technology and innovation has been a cornerstone of its relationship with Oman.
Ambassador Kim reiterated that both nations are keen to explore further cooperation in the fields of digital transformation, smart cities, and AI-driven solutions.
With Oman’s push for technological advancement under Vision 2040, South Korean companies are expected to play a crucial role in supporting the Sultanate’s development goals.
Korean Film Festival set to make a comeback in Oman
On the cultural front, the South Korean Embassy has exciting plans to reinvigorate the Korean Film Festival in Oman, which has been a popular event in previous years.
The festival will return in 2025, featuring critically acclaimed films that highlight Korea’s cinematic creativity and storytelling prowess.
"Cinema has always been a powerful tool in fostering cultural understanding," said Ambassador Kim. "The festival will serve as another bridge to connect our peoples through the universal language of film."
50 Years of diplomatic success
Reflecting on the five-decade journey, Ambassador Kim highlighted the mutual respect and cooperation that have defined South Korea and Oman’s relationship.
"Since 1974, our countries have worked together on many fronts, from political collaboration to joint economic ventures and cultural exchanges. We look forward to continuing this partnership, especially as we face global challenges like climate change, economic recovery, and technological advancement."
As the year of celebrations continues, both nations remain focused on strengthening their partnership, building on past successes while fostering a sustainable, innovative, and prosperous future.
