Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Commonwealth of Australia

The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Australia hosted a reception in the Embassy grounds in Canberra, on the occasion of the National Foundation Day and Armed Forces Day on Wednesday, December 4. The reception was attended by over 350 guests, including Australian Government officials, Korean War veterans, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives of the Korean-Australian community.

This year's reception featured the ROK Navy Cruise Training Task Group, who were briefly visiting Australia as part of their 110-day training around the Pacific. Their band, together with the Band of the Royal Military College of Australia, performed the national anthems of the two countries. The group also staged a spectacular performance of traditional Korean folk percussion music, samulnori, as well as K-pop and Australian pop music.

Some of the major Korean businesses operating in Australia showcased their leading products. Guests had a chance to experience first-hand some cutting-edge hydrogen and electric vehicles. Some of the replica models of self-propelled artillery and armored vehicles were displayed, highlighting the excellence of Korean defence industry. Food truck and booths set up by Korean food companies proved to be especially popular, reflecting the enormous popularity of Korean cuisine in Australia.

In his speech, Ambassador Sim Seungseob highlighted significant progress in bilateral relations, including the hosting of a Foreign and Defence Ministerial Meeting in May and the 10th anniversary of the Korea-Australia FTA this year. He emphasized the untapped potential in the bilateral relationship and pledged unwavering efforts to advance the development of bilateral relations between Korea and Australia in the coming year.

In his congratulatory speech, Mr David Smith MP, representing the Australian government, expressed his pleasure at the growing friendship between our two countries as comprehensive strategic partners, and emphasized his anticipation to even closer cooperation towards a brighter future. Admiral David Johnston, Chief of the Defence Force, highlighted that, despite the 6,000km separating Korea and Australia, the two nations maintain strong cooperation, sharing common regional and global security concerns.