Anna Jiwon Park has been covering the politics at The Korea Times since the summer of 2024, when she joined the press pool for the Office of the President in Korea. Prior to that, she spent about five years reporting extensively on financial markets, regulatory authorities and the financial industry. She joined The Korea Times in 2019 after spending eight years as a broadcast journalist at Arirang TV, Korea’s leading global broadcaster, covering politics, defense and culture.
Pakistan commemorates 86th National Day in Seoul, highlighting historic legacy
The Embassy of Pakistan celebrates National Day with a flag hoisting ceremony at the Embassy of Pakistan in Seoul, March 23. Courtesy of Embassy of Pakistan in Korea
By Anna J. Park
Pakistan commemorated its 86th National Day on March 23 with a flag-hoisting ceremony at its embassy in Seoul, attended by members of the Pakistani community and distinguished Korean guests.
The event marked the historic adoption of the Lahore Resolution in 1940, widely regarded as a turning point that led to the creation of Pakistan. The ceremony brought together diplomats, community leaders and guests in a show of unity, reflecting both national pride and the strength of Pakistan’s ties with Korea.
In his congratulatory remarks, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Korea Syed Moazzam H. Shah paid tribute to the country’s founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the leaders of the Pakistan Movement. He described the Lahore Resolution as a defining moment in the political awakening of Muslims in British India, paving the way for an independent and sovereign state.
Ambassador of Pakistan Syed Moazzam H. Shah, left, acknowledges the cultural efforts of Korean painter Min Tae-Hong during the National Day celebration held at the Embassy of Pakistan in Seoul, March 23. Courtesy of Embassy of Pakistan in Korea
The ambassador touted the founding father's leadership, noting that his vision was grounded in democratic values, the rule of law, social justice and equal rights for all citizens regardless of faith or background.
This year holds particular significance, he added, as Pakistan has designated it the “Year of Quaid-e-Azam” to mark the 150th birth anniversary of its founder.
Shah also acknowledged the contributions of the Pakistani community in Korea, praising their professionalism and dedication. He noted that the diaspora has played a key role in strengthening mutual understanding and fostering closer ties between the two nations.
“At a time of increasing global uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, unity and collective resolve are more important than ever,” the ambassador said, urging Pakistanis both at home and abroad to uphold shared values and contribute positively to national development.
The event also served as an opportunity to highlight the evolving relationship between Korea and Pakistan. Diplomatic relations were established in 1983 and have since developed into a multifaceted partnership encompassing trade, investment, socio-economic development, defense cooperation and cultural exchange.