InterviewSeoul's ambassador spouses association turns diplomatic life into cultural exchange

Catalina Bolaños González, president of the Association of Spouses of Ambassadors in Seoul and spouse of the Ecuadorian ambassador to Korea, speaks during an interview with The Korea Times at the Ecuadorian ambassador’s residence in Seoul, April 27. Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk

Behind Seoul's formal diplomatic circuit, a quieter kind of international engagement is taking shape. The Association of Spouses of Ambassadors in Seoul (ASAS) has grown into a unique platform for cultural exchange, charitable work and cross-cultural friendship, bringing together the partners of ambassadors and heads of mission in Korea.

Founded in 2009 and formally established in 2014, the organization has developed into a space where respect, cooperation and human connection take precedence even amid complex global challenges. With around 50 members — roughly half the number of embassies in Korea — ASAS carries out a range of projects and initiatives aimed at promoting intercultural dialogue, friendship and philanthropic collaboration, while strengthening ties with the Korean people.

Catalina Bolaños González, spouse of Ecuador’s Ambassador to Korea Patricio Troya Suárez, has been serving as ASAS president since July 2025 for a one-year term, succeeding former president Natalia Federighi de Cuello of the Dominican Republic.

Catalina Bolaños González, president of the Association of Spouses of Ambassadors in Seoul and spouse of the Ecuadorian ambassador to Korea, speaks during an interview with The Korea Times at the Ecuadorian ambassador’s residence in Seoul, April 27. Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk

"My main inspiration has been to continue the legacy that ASAS has built over the years as a symbol of diplomacy, unity and mutual understanding among nations. Taking on this leadership role represents both a responsibility and a privilege, allowing us to strengthen this unique platform for cultural and human exchange," she told The Korea Times in a recent interview at the Ecuadorian ambassador’s residence in Seoul.

"As president, my role is to lead the association, promote its initiatives and strengthen the bonds both among our members and with Korean society."

A licensed lawyer in Ecuador, Bolaños González later earned a master’s degree in Business Administration from Adolfo Ibáñez University in Chile. Her professional experience spans legal practice, banking and financial institutions, as well as the implementation of cutting-edge technological platforms. She arrived in Korea in October 2024 with her husband.

Drawing from her professional background, she emphasized that ASAS is "an independent, nonpolitical association that seeks to build bridges between cultures, fostering respect, diversity and human connection beyond borders."

When she began her presidency, the board lineup included Regina Flores, spouse of the ambassador of Mexico, as vice president and treasurer, and Nargiza Abdusalomova, spouse of the Uzbek ambassador, as project coordinator.

Catalina Bolaños González, center, president of the Association of Spouses of Ambassadors in Seoul (ASAS), poses for a picture with new board members at the Mexican ambassador's residence in Seoul, March 19. From left, Harsha Das, spouse of the ambassador of India; Regina Flores, spouse of the ambassador of Mexico; Bolaños González; Mongolmaa Dorjnamjaa, spouse of the ambassador of Mongolia; and Sayma Hoque, spouse of the ambassador of Bangladesh. Courtesy of ASAS

The current board, formed in March, includes Mongolmaa Dorjnamjaa, spouse of the ambassador of Mongolia, as vice president; Harsha Das, spouse of the ambassador of India, as project coordinator; and Sayma Hoque, spouse of the ambassador of Bangladesh, as treasurer. Flores, ASAS' former vice president, now serves as adviser to the association.

ASAS carries out a diverse range of activities combining cultural exchange, social engagement and humanitarian work. The association regularly organizes cultural programs and visits in cooperation with local and regional authorities, enabling members to deepen their understanding of Korea’s history, traditions and society.

"We also place strong emphasis on the well-being of our members, who, as foreigners living abroad, often face cultural and language challenges. In this regard, we have promoted their visibility through media platforms, where many have had the opportunity to share their experiences and represent their countries through interviews and public engagement," she said.

In addition, the association developed strategic partnerships with local businesses and key institutions, contributing actively to the community through social, cultural and charitable initiatives. Recently, ASAS signed a memorandum of understanding with CHA Hospital, one of Korea’s leading health care and wellness centers, enabling members and their families to access high-quality services.

Catalina Bolaños González, front row third from left, president of the Association of Spouses of Ambassadors in Seoul (ASAS), and Mongolmaa Dorjnamjaa, front row second from right, vice president of ASAS and spouse of the ambassador of Mongolia, attend a memorandum of understanding signing ceremony with CHA Hospital to strengthen health care services for foreign residents in Korea held at the hospital in Seoul, April 16. Courtesy of CHA Hospital

Finding community in a foreign country

ASAS also participates in initiatives organized by the Korean Red Cross, particularly its renowned annual bazaar, where members represent their countries through cultural stands and contributions.

"One of the most significant aspects of our work is our close relationship with orphanages. Beyond financial contributions, we prioritize human connection — sharing time, experiences and moments of joy with children," she said.

During the Christmas season last year, ASAS organized a special event at Sundukwon Orphanage. Alongside a significant donation supported by the sale of an international cookbook, the association invited Korean soprano Diana Yoo to perform.

"We shared a heartfelt and joyful celebration with the girls of the center. We sang and danced together, delivered personalized gifts and created a warm and meaningful atmosphere," she said. "It was a moment where music, culture and compassion came together in a very special way."

Catalina Bolaños González, president of the Association of Spouses of Ambassadors in Seoul and spouse of the Ecuadorian ambassador to Korea, speaks during an interview with The Korea Times at the Ecuadorian ambassador’s residence in Seoul, April 27. Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk

Looking ahead, ASAS will host another initiative on May 4 at Dream Tree Village, where participating girls will experience a “journey around the world” through cultural presentations, interactive activities and shared moments with members.

"Our contribution goes far beyond financial support. We believe that giving our time, attention, and affection is the most meaningful way to connect with these children. Our goal is to inspire them, to show them that the world is full of opportunities, and to remind them that they are valued, supported, and never alone," she said.

In addition to its charitable work, ASAS organizes visits to major Korean companies and institutions, offering members insight into Korea’s development and future vision. Cultural activities such as museum visits, exhibitions and artistic programs further enhance engagement with Korean society.

Bolaños González noted that one of the most rewarding aspects of her role has been seeing "the members feel welcomed, supported and genuinely happy."

"Living in a foreign country can be challenging, especially due to cultural and language barriers. Within ASAS, a strong spirit of solidarity and camaraderie emerges, helping members adapt and build meaningful friendships. It is truly meaningful to witness how, beyond our differences, we create bonds based on empathy and respect," she emphasized.

Members of the Association of Spouses of Ambassadors in Seoul wear hanbok, a traditional Korean dress, designed by Kim Kwang-ja at the Samcheonggak Cultural Center in Seoul, Dec. 10, 2024. Courtesy of ASAS

In closing, she highlighted the importance of diversity.

"Diversity is a strength. ASAS reflects the world itself — a space where different cultures, languages, traditions, and realities come together. What unites us is far greater than what differentiates us. We are a non-political association grounded in respect, empathy, and shared human values," she said.

"As women, professionals, mothers, and representatives of our countries, we go beyond our formal diplomatic roles and become ambassadors of the human side of our nations. We firmly believe that true understanding between peoples begins at the human level, and that is the spirit that guides everything we do."