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.
Belarusian envoy highlights cultural, economic ties with Korea on Independence Day
Belarusian Ambassador to Korea Andrew Chernetsky, front row, third from right, poses with other ambassadors and diplomatic envoys to Korea during Belarus' Independence Day in Seoul, Tuesday. Korea Times photo by Kim Hyun-bin
By Kim Hyun-bin
Belarusian Ambassador to Korea Andrew Chernetsky highlighted growing cultural and economic exchanges between Korea and Belarus during a reception marking Belarus' Independence Day in Seoul on Tuesday, while acknowledging ongoing diplomatic challenges between the two countries.
The event commemorated the liberation of Minsk from Nazi occupation during World War II, a pivotal moment Belarus observes as a national holiday.
“This victory is forever captured in history, which no one will be able to rewrite or distort,” Chernetsky said, emphasizing the enduring significance of the date for Belarusian national identity.
Turning to bilateral relations, the ambassador noted “positive shifts” in ties over the past year, pointing to the first-ever Korean participation in an international election observation mission during the Belarusian presidential election. One of the delegates, Kwaak Young-hoon, attended the reception.
Cultural cooperation has been another area of strength.
Chernetsky pointed to the participation of Korean film professionals in the jury of the “Listapad - 2024” film festival in Minsk and announced that renowned bass opera singer Lee Yeon-seong would soon become the first Korean artist to perform at the “Slavic Bazaar — 2025,” the largest arts festival in Belarus.
Belarusian Ambassador to Korea Andrew Chernetsky speaks during Belarus' Independence Day in Seoul, Tuesday. Korea Times photo by Kim Hyun-bin
“Even despite some political cooling, the ongoing activation of cooperation through culture and education between our countries is the best example that dialogue between peoples develops normally,” Chernetsky said.
While diplomatic communication between the two governments has become more difficult in what he described as a “period of foreign policy turbulence,” the ambassador voiced optimism that people-to-people exchanges could continue to thrive. “In my opinion, the dialogue between peoples is more important than the dialogue between politicians,” he said.
He welcomed renewed signs of economic interest, noting a significant uptick in bilateral trade, with Belarusian exports to Korea rising more than 2.6-fold. Recent exchanges have included a visit by officials of Korea’s Food and Drug Safety Agency to inspect Belarusian dairy producers, as well as Belarusian experts taking part in medical technology exhibitions in Korea.
“This is real people’s diplomacy,” Chernetsky said, describing it as a foundation for sustained cooperation. “Even despite the pause taken by politicians and diplomats, relations between the peoples of our countries are developing on a mutually beneficial basis.”
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to strengthening mutual understanding and cooperation.
“This is what I strive for and how I see my mission as an ambassador — to strengthen the mutual connections between the people of the Republic of Belarus and the Republic of Korea.”