Czech ambassador celebrates National Day, condemns North Korea's support for Russia

Czech Ambassador to South Korea Ivan Jancarek gives a speech during the Czech National Day event held in Seoul, Oct. 28. Courtesy of the Embassy of Czech Republic in Seoul

Czech Ambassador to South Korea Ivan Jancarek hosted a reception to celebrate Czech National Day, emphasizing key milestones in South Korea-Czech relations throughout 2024 on Oct. 28. Distinguished guests included Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Ahn Duk-geun and Czech Vice Minister of Regional Development Jan Fluxa.

“2024 is a year — a milestone in the development of Czech-Korean relations,” Jancarek said, pointing out the selection of the Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power group as the preferred bidder for the Dukovany nuclear power plant project.

“This will significantly contribute to strengthening the energy security of Czechia on one hand and to forging the Czech-Korean nuclear alliance on the other,” the ambassador said, adding that this alliance would also renew nuclear industries across Europe and the Middle East.

Reflecting on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s recent visit to Prague and Pilsen, Jancarek underscored the depth of Korea-Czech collaboration across various sectors, including politics, economy, defense, science and technology, culture, sports and tourism.

With the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 10th anniversary of a strategic partnership approaching next year, he expressed optimism for a “strategic dialogue and strengthened economic cooperation,” highlighting the impact of Korean investment in energy, electric vehicle mobility and semiconductors.

“We look forward to an increasing number of direct connections between Prague and Seoul in 2025, surpassing the number of visitors from the pre-COVID-19 period,” he said, emphasizing the shared goal of boosting tourism.

Addressing global security concerns, Jancarek strongly condemned the DPRK's cooperation with Russia, stating, “Czechia strongly condemns the deepening military cooperation and arms transfers between DPRK and Russia, which flagrantly violate multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions.” DPRK stands for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, North Korea's official name.

He praised South Korea’s support for Ukraine, reflecting Czechia’s commitment to multilateral alliances grounded in democracy and human rights.

Celebrating Czech National Day, Jancarek invited guests to enjoy Czech cultural offerings, including a performance by the Moravian folk ensemble DANAJ, and a concert commemorating the Velvet Revolution’s 35th anniversary at Seoul Arts Center on Nov. 22.

Concluding his remarks, he said, “May Czech-Korean cooperation and friendship flourish.”