Outgoing EU envoy lauds Korea's cultural strengths
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Tomasz Kozlowski
By Rachel Lee
Korea's ability to combine the traditional with the modern differentiates it from the rest of the world, says a former European Union (EU) ambassador to Korea.
Tomasz Kozlowski, 57, whose term ended Thursday, praised Korea for this “fusion” approach.
“Korea has successfully invented a way to promote its old, rich cultural heritage to the world,” Kozlowski said in an interview held at his office in Seoul on Aug. 25. “That’s why its music, movies and fashion are popular around the world including Europe. It’s very unusual and I think it’s truly a big achievement.”
Kozlowski, who was appointed as the head of the EU in Korea in January 2011, had been working for EU institutions in Brussels since 2004. Before joining the EU, he was a member of the Polish Diplomatic Service, working for the Polish Embassy in Indonesia and Malaysia. He was also appointed the Polish ambassador to Pakistan and Afghanistan from 2001- 2003.
His four years in the post here were rewarding as the EU and Korea built a solid foundation in bilateral relations, which he believes are now flourishing. This was displayed by three basic agreements set in place: the 2010 Framework Agreement, the 2011 Free Trade Agreement and the 2013 Framework Agreement for the Participation of Korea in EU Crisis Management Operations.
“Korea is the first Asian country that we have concluded three basic agreements, which reflects how strong our relationship is,” said Kozlowski. “Korea is a like-minded country sharing the same principles, values and interests as the EU. It’s an important partner for us.”
Asked about his next destination, he could only say “another Asian country” for now.
“I will miss Korean people the most,” he said. “Korea has a wonderful society. I’ve always admired Koreans’ sense of responsibility, devotion, hard-working attitude and self-confidence. I will miss all my friends here.”