Damascus, Dec.6 (SANA) Ambassador of South Korea to Lebanon, Gyusuk Geon, affirmed that the first Syrian–Korean Business Forum held in Damascus was an important step toward strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries.
The forum brought together business leaders, investors, and government representatives to explore new opportunities, exchange expertise, and identify areas of partnership.
The ambassador, who is also tasked with managing his country’s affairs in Syria, told SANA in an interview that his country’s goal is not limited to facilitating trade and investment, but also includes building long-term partnerships that benefit both nations.
“We firmly believe that economic cooperation can play a key role in promoting stability, development and strengthening bilateral relations. The positive interaction we witnessed at the forum reflected the shared commitment of Korea and Syria to expand cooperation and create tangible opportunities for companies and communities in both countries,” the Ambassador said.
He added that South Korea’s cooperation with Syria reflects a balanced approach built on interconnected pillars, including diplomatic collaboration and support for stability.
“We are open to help Syria achieve its economic recovery by encouraging our companies to explore opportunities,” Mr. Geon noted.
Potential Cooperation Sectors
The Ambassador went on to say that South Korea sees promising opportunities for cooperation with Syria in multiple sectors, such as infrastructure, energy, digitization, information technology, education and scientific research.
He emphasized that Korea’s experience in post-war reconstruction, infrastructure development and economic modernization could serve as a useful model for Syria during its recovery phase.
Cultural Cooperation
The Ambassador also highlighted that Syrian and Korean cultures are rich and resilient, having endured for centuries and they form a solid foundation for cultural cooperation between the two countries.
This includes introducing the Korean people to Syria’s rich heritage, arts, and traditions through initiatives such as language programs, academic exchanges, and collaboration in cinema, music, and literature.
He stressed that Syria holds a unique and important position with its rich cultural heritage and ancient history.
Diplomatic Developments
In February, a South Korean delegation visited Damascus and met with Foreign Minister, Asaad Hassan Al-Shibani, affirming the intention to open a new chapter in relations.
On April 10, Syria and South Korea signed an agreement on diplomatic cooperation to build and strengthen friendship and collaboration between the two countries, serving the interests of both peoples. The agreement also included opening embassies and exchanging diplomatic missions.
Current Relations
Syrian–Korean relations are witnessing notable development, with expanding paths of political, economic, and cultural cooperation. This comes as South Korea shows increasing interest in supporting stability and development in Syria, in parallel with Damascus’ efforts to enhance its external openness and attract expertise and partnerships that contribute to recovery and reconstruction.
Korean Wave
As for Hallyu (the Korean Wave), the Ambassador noted that it is a powerful tool that complements Korea’s traditional diplomacy and economic outreach, making Korea’s presence abroad more approachable and human-centered.
Hallyu, or the Korean Wave, is one of the most dynamic and influential examples of soft diplomacy in recent years. Through K-pop, K-dramas, Korean cuisine, Korean cosmetics and fashion, Korea has captured the hearts and minds of millions around the world, including in the Arab world.
Hallyu serves as a bridge, introducing people to Korean culture and values in an engaging and relatable way.
Indeed, it is a significant part of Korea’s broader vision to open doors for cooperation in various sectors.
Mazen
