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.
Israel celebrates 77 years of independence, reaffirms strong ties with Korea
Israeli Ambassador to Korea Rafael Harpaz speaks during the 77th anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel event in Seoul, Monday. Korea Times photo by Kim Hyun-bin
By Kim Hyun-bin
On a night marked by reflection and hope, Israeli Ambassador to Korea Rafael Harpaz addressed a distinguished gathering in Seoul on Monday to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel. In his remarks, the ambassador emphasized the deep and growing bond between Korea and Israel.
“Thank you for joining us this evening to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the independence of the State of Israel,” Harpaz said. “It is an honor to gather here in Korea with friends and partners.”
Highlighting the historical parallels shared by the two nations, the ambassador noted, “Israel and Korea share a unique connection. Both our nations were founded in the same year, in the aftermath of historic struggles. And both rose from the ashes of war to become democratic, innovative and resilient societies.”
Since establishing diplomatic relations 63 years ago, the partnership between Korea and Israel has flourished. Ambassador Harpaz praised this collaboration, stating, “Our countries have built a dynamic and growing partnership.”
Among the milestones he highlighted was the landmark 2022 Free Trade Agreement.
“Israel was the first country in the Middle East to sign a Free Trade Agreement with Korea, and Korea was the first country in Asia with which Israel signed such an important agreement,” he explained.
The ambassador also touched upon the extraordinary solidarity demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Israel was the first country in the world to vaccinate its population. During the pandemic, Israel provided Korea with 700,000 COVID vaccine doses, helping to save many lives here. It was the first time one nation transferred COVID vaccines to another — a gesture of mutual trust and solidarity.”
Cho Koo-rae, vice minister for Strategy and Intelligence at Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed his deep honor in commemorating Israel’s National Day on behalf of the Korean government and highlighted the complementary nature of their economies.
“Korea, as one of the world's strongest manufacturing powerhouses, and Israel, as a premier startup nation, possess tremendous potential for cooperation across multiple sectors including semiconductors, biotechnology and green energy,” he said.
Beyond economics and technology, Cho touched on cultural connections between the two nations.
“Israel has long been a cherished friend of Korea. As home to sacred sites, Israel has welcomed Korean tourists. The kibbutz system, renowned for its communal values, resonates with Korean cultural principles. The Talmud, regarded as essential literature, has inspired Korean parents in their commitment to educational excellence. Likewise, Israeli people, particularly Israeli youth, are becoming more interested in Korea through the global K-Pop phenomenon.”
Addressing recent challenges, Harpaz expressed heartfelt gratitude for Korea’s unwavering support following the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks in Israel.
“A further testament to our strong ties is the support Israel has received from the Korean government and the Korean people, for which we are deeply grateful,” he said.
“Since Oct. 7, 2023, Israel has been engaged in a war that was forced upon us. Today, still, 55 hostages remain captive in Gaza, held under inhumane conditions by the terror organization Hamas. We must do everything we can to bring them home.”
The ambassador also conveyed confidence in Israel’s enduring resilience.
“Throughout history, the Jewish people and the Israeli nation have faced many hardships, yet in every generation we have never lost our spirit. We support each other, we create, we innovate and we believe in the power of light over darkness.”
Pointing to Israel’s robust economic recovery, the ambassador noted, “Israel's growth rate remains among the highest in the Western world. The tech sector is rebounding, marked by the recent acquisition of Israeli startup Wiz by Google for nearly $32 billion. At the same time, Israel’s financial markets have shown notable stability. International investments are returning, reflecting confidence in Israel’s long-term economic potential.”
Concluding on a hopeful and forward-looking note, Harpaz said, “As we mark 77 years of Israeli independence, we look ahead with optimism — to a future shaped by peace, shared innovation and a deepening friendship between Israel and Korea.”