Swedish Embassy celebrates double jubilee, strong partnership with Korea

Dignitaries toast in celebration of Sweden Day 2023 at Grand Hyatt Seoul, Friday. Courtesy of Embassy of Sweden in Korea

By Kwon Mee-yoo

The Embassy of Sweden in Korea hosted Sweden Day 2023, Friday, to commemorate two major anniversaries for the Scandinavian country ― the 500th anniversary of the election of King Gustav Vasa in 1523 and the 50th year on the throne for incumbent King Carl XVI Gustaf.

Held at Grand Hyatt Seoul on top of Mount Nam, Sweden Day is one of the largest events hosted by the diplomatic community in Korea with over 1,300 participants.

Swedish Ambassador to Korea Daniel Wolven noted the ongoing growth of the strong bilateral relationship between Korea and Sweden.

"Together with my wife and two children, I have now lived in this amazing country for almost two years. And each day, I am struck by the ties that bind Sweden and Korea together; our innovative companies, our vibrant music industries, our passion for world-class film, design and food. And, of course, our strong commitment to freedom, to peace and to security," Wolven said.

"We were especially honored to receive Prime Minister Han Duck-soo in Stockholm last month and his visit also opened up new promising areas of cooperation between our countries, including on nuclear energy."

Swedish Ambassador to Korea Daniel Wolven delivers a speech at Sweden Day 2023 celebrations at Grand Hyatt Seoul, Friday. Courtesy of Embassy of Sweden in Korea

He also noted Sweden's role in peacekeeping on the Korean Peninsula as a neutral observer.

"This year also marks 70 years since the Armistice, which in many ways was the starting point of Korea's remarkable economic journey ― from the ruins of war to one of the world's industrial and cultural powerhouses. For all these years, the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission has been present in Panmunjom. Day and night, Swedish and Swiss soldiers have faithfully carried out their mission, thus contributing to the security on the Korean peninsula," the ambassador said.

“Today, Sweden Day again takes place against the backdrop of Russia's brutal war of aggression against Ukraine. Just as we remember the sacrifices of those who fought in the Korean War and their immense contribution to the freedom and prosperity of modern Korea, let us also honor the Ukrainian people who are, as we meet here tonight, fighting for those same values of freedom.”

Second Vice Foreign Minister Lee Do-hoon gave a speech on behalf of the Korean government, reaffirming Korea's commitment to continue strengthening ties with Sweden, sharing his insights from his visit to Stockholm in May when he accompanied Prime Minister Han on his official visit.

"They agreed to explore the ample potential for green transition and energy cooperation. As both countries boast of the world's highest level of technology and well-structured manufacturing sector, the two Prime Ministers emphasized the need for common efforts to stabilize the world supply chain," Lee said.

"Also, during the visit, the Korean Cultural Center was opened in Stockholm. Located at the heart of Northern Europe, it will serve as a platform to raise mutual understanding and promote exchanges between our two countries as well as in the region."

Notable Swedish companies including Electrolux, SAAB, Volvo and Scania operated booths to showcase the country's leading industries. The event also gave a glimpse into the dynamic Swedish music scene through the performances by Swedish songwriters Skott and Peter St. James.

The event also honored the 2023 recipients of the Korea+Sweden Young Design Award. This award, a joint effort by the Swedish Embassy, IKEA Korea and the Korea Institute of Design Promotion, is aimed at promoting interaction between Korea and Sweden through the medium of design. This year's competition was themed "Sustainable and Enjoyable."