Long historic ties underpin strong Korea-India partnership
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On the global stage, marked by geopolitical shifts and economic uncertainties, Korea and India have emerged as strong partners, forging deeper diplomatic and economic ties. The relationship between these two Asian powerhouses has steadily evolved, with both countries recognizing the mutual benefits of collaboration.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Korea and India, officially established back in 1973, but historical connections between the two nations date back centuries. Cultural exchanges, including the spread of Buddhism from India to Korea, have long served as a foundation for bilateral relations. Today, both countries actively engage in various diplomatic initiatives and dialogues.
India is a nation weaving a rich tapestry of history, culture and diversity. With a population of over 1.4 billion people, it is the world's most populous country and has played a pivotal role in shaping global narratives.
India's history dates back thousands of years, with evidence of ancient civilizations like the Indus Valley dating as far back as 2500 B.C. The subcontinent has seen the rise and fall of numerous empires, including the Maurya, Gupta and Mughal dynasties, each leaving an indelible mark on its cultural heritage.
According to the 13th-century Korean historical text "Samguk Yusa" or "Heritage History of the Three Kingdoms," Princess Suriratna from "Ayuta," thought by some to be Ayodhya in India, arrived in Korea in 48 A.D. She married King Kim-Suro of the former Gaya Confederacy in ancient Korea, becoming Queen Heo Hwang-ok.
Many Koreans trace their ancestry to this lineage.
Some scholars believe that Buddhism reached Korea via a maritime route with the arrival of Princess Suriratna and her brother Monk Jangyu. Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore composed a short but evocative poem titled "Lamp of the East" in 1929 about Korea's glorious past and its promising bright future, which is fondly remembered by Koreans and finds mention in Korean school textbooks.
India also played a significant role in the Korean Peninsula after Korea's liberation in 1945. Former Indian diplomat Shri K.P.S. Menon chaired the nine-member U.N. Commission set up in 1947 to hold elections in Korea. India sent an Army medical unit, the 60th Parachute Field Ambulance, consisting of 627 medical personnel, commanded by Lt. Col. A.G. Rangaraj during the Korean War as part of the U.N. Command and treated about 220,000 patients.
During the 1950-53 Korean War, both warring sides accepted a U.N. resolution sponsored by India, and a ceasefire was declared on July 27, 1953. Lt. Gen. K.S. Thimayya of India served as the chairman of the Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission (NNRC) after the armistice and contributed to resolving humanitarian issues arising from the war. India dispatched a Custodian Forces-India (CFI) brigade, comprising 5230 personnel, to Korea under Maj. Gen. SSP Thorat. It played a pivotal role in resolving the prisoners of war issue.
The arrival of European colonial powers, primarily the British East India Company, in the 17th century marked a significant chapter in India's history. Over the centuries, the British Raj exerted control over much of the subcontinent until India gained independence in 1947, thanks to the tireless efforts of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru.
The country is home to hundreds of ethnic groups, and it boasts a staggering linguistic diversity. Hindi and English are the official languages with each state often having its own distinct official language.
Religion plays a central role in India's social fabric. It is the birthplace of major religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism.
India is the world's largest democracy, known for its vibrant political landscape and free and fair elections.
The country has made substantial strides in areas such as education, healthcare and infrastructure. However, it continues to grapple with income inequality, access to basic services and environmental sustainability.