Latvia–South Korea relations
Latvia–South Korea relations refer to the bilateral relations between Latvia and South Korea. Since establishing diplomatic relations in 1991, the two countries have expanded cooperation in various fields, including politics, economy, culture, and security.
History
South Korea recognized Latvia after it regained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, and the two countries officially established diplomatic relations on 22 October of the same year.
South Korea maintains an embassy in Riga, the capital of Latvia, while Latvia has an embassy in Seoul. Latvia was the first of the three Baltic states (Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia) to open a resident embassy in South Korea, a move seen as a reflection of the countries' commitment to strengthening political, economic, and security cooperation.
Political relations
Since establishing diplomatic relations, the two countries have maintained high-level exchanges and diplomatic consultations. Through ministerial meetings and mutual visits, they cooperate on international affairs, regional security, and the promotion of multilateralism.
Latvia regards South Korea as an important partner for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, as well as within the European Union (EU) and the NATO.
South Korea and Latvia emphasize maintaining the international order based on international law and the United Nations Charter, and they have expressed coordinated positions on major international security issues, including the Russia–Ukraine war.
In November 2024, Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs visited South Korea, becoming the first Asian visit by a Latvian president since his inauguration in July 2023. During the summit between President Rinkēvičs and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, both countries agreed to strengthen cooperation in various fields, including defense and biotechnology.
Economic relations
Trade between South Korea and Latvia has steadily increased in recent years, with the total trade volume estimated at over 100 million euros. The two countries are also strengthening cooperation in advanced industries such as biomedicine, pharmaceuticals, and information and communications technology (ICT). Industrial collaboration is expanding through business partnerships, joint research, and participation in exhibitions.
Cultural relations
On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations, both countries have expanded cultural exchanges by organizing cultural events, exhibitions, and performances.
External links
- [https://www2.mfa.gov.lv/kr/| Embassy of Latvia in South Korea]
- [https://overseas.mofa.go.kr/lv-ko/index.do| Embassy of South Korea in Latvia]
Korea, South Category:Bilateral relations of South Korea