Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
Korea-Turkiye relations celebrated on 100th anniversary of Turkish Republic
Turkish Ambassador to Korea Murat Tamer gives a welcome speech during the 100th anniversary of the Turkish Republic at a Hotel in Seoul, Monday. Courtesy of Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in Seoul
By Kim Hyun-bin
The 100th anniversary of the Republic of Turkiye was celebrated on Oct. 30 with warmth and enthusiasm as Turkish Ambassador to Korea Murat Tamer extended a heartfelt welcome to those attending the event, emphasizing the enduring and profound relationship between Seoul and Ankara.
Tamer celebrated the anniversary of the republic, founded under the visionary leadership of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, and under the guidance of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Tamer underscored their shared commitment to forging a path of modernization and democracy, with a sense of pride in their history and confidence in their future.
The ambassador shared a personal memory of celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Turkish Republic with his father at the Ankara Hippodrome. On this historic 100th anniversary, he found himself in Korea, a "friendly and brotherly country," celebrating alongside Korean friends.
Highlighting the deep-rooted ties between Korea and Turkiye, Tamer unveiled the remarkable history of their relations, which date back over 1,500 years.
“The relations between Turks and Koreans do not go back 60 to 70 years before but began about 1,500 years ago. Our peoples have lived side by side in the northern lands, in the steppes of Central Asia together and in peace for many years and fought against common enemies,” he said.
“Our traditions and cultures, even our languages, have intermingled and our peoples have sometimes established kinship.”
He praised the heroic Turkish soldiers who defended South Korea during the Korean War, emphasizing their commitment to aiding an old friend, even if it meant losing nearly 1,000 martyrs.
The ambassador commended Korea's remarkable progress, describing it as "one of the most modern, democratic, and liberal countries" in the world and one of the top ten economies. He acknowledged Korea's soft power, which had endeared the nation to people of all ages.
A Turkish traditional band performs at the 100th Anniversary of the Turkish Republic event at a hotel in Seoul, Monday. Courtesy of Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in Seoul
Tamer expressed pride in the achievements of both Turkiye and Korea. Turkiye had become a global leader, renowned for its democracy, industry, economy and humanitarian support. He highlighted Turkiye's commitment to assisting the needy without discrimination.
The ambassador pointed out the remarkable growth in cooperation between Korea and Turkiye over the past 70 years.
“Our trade volume has reached 10 billion dollars as of 2022, and our commercial and military relations as well as our tourism relations have gained great momentum,” he said.
Turkish Airlines, with the world's largest network of destinations, operated 11 weekly flights between Seoul and Istanbul, a number that increased to 22 in partnership with Korean companies.
He expressed anticipation for more flights and increased tourism between the two nations, highlighting the growing partnership between Turkey and Korea.
Tamer also acknowledged the successful completion of mega projects by Turkish and Korean companies, reinforcing their close ties. He foresaw significant investment moves that would bring the two nations even closer, with high-level visits and substantial projects aimed at enhancing the welfare and happiness of their respective citizens.