Group Photo
Seoul, Republic of Korea – The Embassy of Guatemala in the Republic of Korea hosted a formal reception at the Lotte Hotel in Seoul to mark the 203rd anniversary of Guatemala's independence, commemorating the historic event of September 15, 1821. The celebration was presided over by Her Excellency, Dr. Sara Solís Castañeda, Ambassador of Guatemala to the Republic of Korea, accompanied by the Embassy’s diplomatic staff, as well as the Honorary Consuls of Guatemala in Busan and Pohang.
The event was graced by the presence of senior officials from the Government of the Republic of Korea, members of the diplomatic corps accredited in Korea, representatives of academia, civil society, and members of the Guatemalan community residing in Korea. The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, Mr. Kweon Ki-hwan, attended as the official representative of the Korean government and, alongside Ambassador Solís Castañeda, delivered formal remarks highlighting the enduring friendship between the two nations.
H.E. Dr. Sara Solís Castañeda, Ambassador of Guatemala
Mr. Kweon Ki-hwan, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea
The Ceremonial Cutting of a Commemorative Cake
A highlight of the evening was the ceremonial cutting of a commemorative cake, followed by an exquisite musical performance by the Rusus String Quartet, which captivated the audience with a selection of Guatemalan, Korean, and international compositions, fostering an atmosphere of cultural unity and mutual appreciation.
Guatemala and the Republic of Korea will celebrate 62 years of diplomatic relations in October 2024, underscoring the enduring and ever-deepening bonds between the two nations. In a notable development this year, Guatemala acceded to the Korea-SICA Free Trade Agreement (Central American Integration System), marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations, which will facilitate expanded trade and the exchange of goods between the two countries.
It is also noteworthy that Guatemala is home to a vibrant Korean community of over 7,000 individuals who have called the country their home for more than 50 years. This community is the largest of its kind in Central America and the Caribbean, and the fourth largest in Latin America, reflecting the profound cultural, commercial and social ties that have flourished between Guatemala and Korea over the decades, with approximately 200 Korean companies established in Guatemala.
The Embassy of Guatemala expresses its deepest appreciation to all attendees for their participation in this important celebration and reaffirms its commitment to further strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Guatemala and the Republic of Korea.
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