Yogyakarta, 22 March 2019 – The Mission of the Republic of Korea to ASEAN has greatly contributed to the strengthening of cooperation and coordination between ASEAN and the Republic of Korea. ASEAN Studies Center (ASC) Fisipol UGM invited H.E Kim Young Chae as the guest speaker in the ambassadorial lecture entitled “30 Years of ASEAN – Korea Relations: Thinking 30 Years Ahead.” History of the Korean Peninsula, factors that led to ASEAN’s success, the importance of ASEAN to the Republic of Korea and the goals of the Mission of the Republic of Korea to ASEAN were the topics that were discussed in this session.“The three factors that laid the foundation for ASEAN’s success are leadership, ASEAN Community Building and ASEAN’s centrality,” Kim stated.Kim praised Indonesia’s leadership in ASEAN, as Indonesia has developed the culture of consultation and cooperation, as well as ASEAN’s model of diplomacy. Regarding the ASEAN Community Building, this discussion focused on the improvement of the competitiveness within the ASEAN single market, and also ASEAN’s aim to be the hub of production by 2025. The last aspect in regard to ASEAN’s centrality is concerning the regional construct that is centered on ASEAN.
ASEAN is a major source of “revenue” for the Republic of Korea, both from tourism and trade. ASEAN is one of the destinations for Korean tourists, and vice versa. For the Republic of Korea, ASEAN is the second largest trading partner after China.
“We are proud that our culture is being received positively in ASEAN member states. The emergence of K-pop fans and the role of K-pop stars as trendsetters made us feel that we are being treated warmly,” Kim conveyed.
The Mission of the Republic of Korea to ASEAN was formed to expand the Republic of Korea’s cooperation with ASEAN. Education, environmental protection and culture are the three main sectors. Meanwhile, people, prosperity and peace are the three aspects that are prioritized for further developments.
At the end of the discussion, Kim hoped that the Republic of Korea will always be embraced warmly by ASEAN within each cooperation program.
