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.
Thai envoy marks National Day, calls for deeper ties with Korea
Thai Ambassador to Korea Tanee Sangrat speaks during Thailand's National Day reception in Seoul, Wednesday. Korea Times photo by Kim Hyun-bin
By Kim Hyun-bin
Thailand’s ambassador to Korea, Tanee Sangrat, called for deeper bilateral cooperation during a National Day reception in Seoul on Wednesday, noting the growing momentum in the countries’ strategic partnership.
Unification Minister Chung Dong-young also addressed the gathering, urging Thailand and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to take on a larger role in supporting peace on the Korean Peninsula.
The event commemorated Thailand’s National Day and the birthday anniversary of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, while also honoring the recent passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother.
Sangrat said Thailand “commemorates the tragic passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, who passed away on Oct. 24,” praising her “tireless work and lifelong dedication to improving the welfare of her people.” He noted her achievements in rural development, water resource management, women’s empowerment, the preservation of traditional Thai fabrics and silk and humanitarian support for refugees in the 1970s.
“Her Majesty’s benevolence and grace will forever remain in the hearts of all Thais,” he said.
Sangrat said the Royal Thai Government under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is pursuing “a proactive and forward looking diplomacy,” aimed at restoring Thailand’s visibility on the global stage and advancing national interests “both by connecting Thailand to the world and bringing the world to Thailand.”
These efforts, he noted, extend naturally to strengthening relations with Korea — ties rooted in Thai participation in the Korean War, and now expanded into “a multifaceted and future-oriented strategic partnership.”
He emphasized Thailand’s hope of contributing to “lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula and the well-being of all people through peaceful negotiation.”
Chung, speaking at the reception, reaffirmed the significance of Thailand’s historic support for Korea.
“Thailand is a treasured friend that stood with the Republic of Korea during the Korean War,” Chung said. “Our two nations have maintained a deep relationship for 67 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties.”
Unification Minister Chung Dong-young speaks during Thailand's National Day reception in Seoul, Wednesday. Korea Times photo by Kim Hyun-bin
Chung highlighted expanding cooperation in trade, defense industries, culture and tourism, noting that more than 2 million people traveled between the two countries last year. He also underscored Thailand’s importance as the Country Coordinator for the Korea-ASEAN Dialogue, saying it serves as “a crucial partner in strengthening cooperation between Korea and ASEAN.”
He stressed that peace in Northeast Asia is “directly and indirectly linked to the peace and stability of ASEAN,” and expressed hope that Korea and Thailand would “continue to strengthen mutual cooperation and achieve greater shared development.
Sangrat also highlighted strong cultural ties, noting that the Sawasdee Seoul 2025 Thai Festival drew more than 100,000 visitors and was supported by Korea’s Thai community, which numbers around 170,000 people.
Looking ahead, the ambassador said the embassy aims to double bilateral trade from $15 billion to $30 billion and increase two-way investment. He cited business forums in Seoul and Bangkok involving 100 Korean investors, along with new connections between Thai universities and Korean institutions such as KAIST and the K-BioHealth Foundation.