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.
Turkey-Korea international conference highlights shared ancient heritage
Turkish Ambassador to Korea Murat Tamer gives a speech during the Turkiye-Hittite International Conference in Seoul, April 18. Courtesy of Embassy of Turkey in Seoul
By Kim Hyun-bin
Turkey’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism announced that the Turkiye-Hittite International Conference held at the Seoul Baekje Museum on April 18 helped strengthen ties between Turkey and Korea, according to the Embassy of Turkey on April 28.
The conference coincided with the museum’s ongoing international exhibition, "Hittites: The Mightiest Empire of the Orient." Eleven distinguished archaeologists from Turkey, Germany and Korea presented research on the development and structures of the ancient Hittite and Baekje civilizations. Highlighted presentations included findings from key Hittite sites such as Hattusa and Orta Koy/Şapinuwa, while Korean scholars shared discoveries from the Baekje capitals of Hanseong, Ungjin, and Sabi, facilitating comparative discussions on ancient urbanization.
Particularly notable was the participation of leading Turkish scholars, who shared firsthand research from Hittite archaeological sites and engaged in dialogue comparing it to Korea’s Baekje heritage. The session drew strong interest from attendees, who praised the multidimensional approach linking the two ancient cultures.
To promote the upcoming Turkish Cuisine Week, the ministry provided traditional Turkish treats such as borek, baklava, and leblebi, offering attendees a taste of the country’s rich culinary culture.
Ozden Vanlı, coordinator at the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, also delivered a presentation on Turkey’s major archaeological sites, nearby tourist attractions, and regional cuisines, highlighting the potential for archaeology-based tourism.
“We hope this conference will not only raise awareness of the Hittite civilization but also lay the foundation for developing cultural tourism products based on archaeological history,” said Buşra Karatepe, Culture and Tourism counselor at the Turkish Embassy in Seoul. “We are committed to encouraging more Korean travelers to experience Turkiye’s rich history, culture, and cuisine.”
The exhibition featuring 212 artifacts from Hittite sites will run at the Seoul Baekje Museum until June 8.