INTERVIEW Korea-UK working holiday visa expansion forms cadre of 'best ambassadors' to bolster cultural ties

Gareth Weir, deputy ambassador at the British Embassy in Seoul, speaks of the historic strength of relations between Korea and Britain during an interview with The Korea Times at the residence of the British Embassy in Seoul, Jan. 18. Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk.

Gareth Weir, deputy ambassador at the British Embassy in Seoul, has expressed excitement about the expansion of the Youth Mobility Scheme, better known as a working holiday visa, from 1,000 to 5,000 participants annually, hoping that more young people will have opportunities to better understand each country.

This change, effective from Jan 31, aims to encourage young people from both countries to explore each other's cultures and languages.

"We're looking to promote that this year and ensure that we get 5,000 Koreans over to the U.K. as part of this new visa scheme," Weir said during an interview with The Korea Times at the British Embassy in Seoul Jan. 18.

“I think its a tremendous opportunity for young people to experience a different culture, get to know a different language, try an experiment and learn about the different culture because ultimately the best ambassadors are each others's citizens who experience if you like each other's culture."

Weir emphasized the historic strength of the relationship between the United Kingdom and Korea. Weir noted that those diplomatic ties have spanned 141 years, with the Treaty of Friendship, Navigation and Commerce signed in 1883 between the United Kingdom and Joseon.

"We are at the closest ever we've been in terms of our friendship and our partnership between the two countries," said Weir highlighting the enduring bond forged during the U.K.'s significant contribution to the Korean War and subsequent state visits.

He reflected on the pivotal 140th year, during which President Yoon Suk Yeol's visit to the U.K. resulted in the signing of the Downing Street Accord. The accord outlined an ambitious forward partnership, marking both nations as upgraded global strategic partners.

President Yoon and U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak held a summit, Nov. 22, 2023, and signed the Downing Street Accord aimed at elevating bilateral ties. The accord is a blueprint for the future partnership of both countries that spans national security, defense, science, technology and other fields.

Weir expressed optimism about the myriad opportunities arising from this agreement, covering defense, security, trade, investment, science, technology and international development.

"The Free Trade Agreement is a perfect way of promoting that and reducing the barriers to trade between our two countries," Weir said.

“We have a very strong trading and investment relationship between the two countries but you know we want to be even more ambitious. We're both top 10 economies we're both known for our innovation. I think there's more that we can do to grow the trade and investment both ways.”

President Yoon Suk Yeol holds summit meeting with U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in London Nov. 22. Korea Times photo by Seo Jae-hoon

According to the embassy, the overall trade between Korea and Britain amounted to 16.1 billion pounds ($20.4 billion) in the 12 months leading up to June 2023. Since the signing of the existing trade deal in 2011, it has more than doubled, increasing by 7.4 billion pounds during that period. The ongoing negotiations for the enhanced Free Trade Agreement (FTA) are expected to further enhance trade prospects.

He also identified key challenges, including security and conflict, emerging technologies like AI and the urgent need for collaboration on climate change and energy transition.

Weir underlined the significance of cultural ties and people-to-people connections in strengthening the relationship. He cited successful exhibitions, the popularity of K-pop in the U.K., and the warmth demonstrated during state visits. Weir expressed eagerness about upcoming events, such as the Youth Winter Olympics, reinforcing the mutual affection for sports and culture.

He also mentioned ongoing efforts to promote U.K. education in Korea, emphasizing the value of programs like the Chevening Awards.

Weir wanted to further deepen the U.K.-Korea relationship, leveraging the strength of their economies, shared values and the foundation of cultural connections. The deputy head of mission affirmed his commitment to enhancing collaboration, celebrating mutual achievements and fostering a lasting friendship between the two nations.

Wrapping up the interview, Weir shared his reflections on his year and a half in Korea, emphasizing the surprising commonalities between the two nations, the warmth of the Korean people and the vibrant culture he has experienced.

"I've been here coming up a year and a half now and enjoy living and working here. Despite our countries being very different in many ways — different cultures, histories, languages and foods — I've been struck by how much we have in common as people," Weir said.

Weir also shared his experiences exploring Korea, both professionally and personally. He recounted a memorable four-day cycle ride from Busan to Seoul, which allowed him to see the country's beauty and meet locals in smaller towns.

Reflecting on his culinary experiences, Weir expressed a fondness for Korean barbecue, describing it as a favorite when entertaining visitors.

"Proper Korean barbecue down in the city center with the plastic stools and plastic table – that's our favorite. I think, in terms of both the food but also the experience, it's a bit of Korea," he said.