Korean Ambassador: Korean Companies Have Contributed to Developing Kuwait's Infrastructure Since the 1970s
The Korean Ambassador emphasized the deep historical ties and economic and military cooperation with Kuwait dating back to the 1970s.
Translated by Qiyas from الوسط — Original source
The Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Kuwait, Jang Hyun Kim, affirmed the robustness of the bilateral relations between the two friendly countries and the depth of historical ties built on mutual trust and solidarity in facing challenges, emphasizing that Kuwait-Korea friendship has proven its resilience during difficult times.
This came in a speech delivered by Ambassador Kim during a celebration hosted by his embassy to mark Korea’s National Foundation Day and Armed Forces Day, attended by Assistant Minister for Municipal Affairs and Assistant Minister for Housing, Abdul Latif Al-Mashari, Chairman of the National Service Authority, Major General Naif Al-Azmi, and a number of state officials, heads of diplomatic missions, and representatives of international organizations in Kuwait.
Ambassador Kim stated that relations between the two countries exemplify true friendship, demonstrated by standing side by side during crises, and noted that shared challenges have contributed to enhancing convergence and understanding between them.
He recalled his country’s supportive stance toward Kuwait during the brutal Iraqi invasion in 1990, explaining that Korea contributed to Kuwait’s liberation efforts by deploying a military medical support unit and a military airlift unit comprising five C-130 aircraft, in addition to providing financial contributions to support the international coalition’s efforts.
He added that the Kuwaiti people still cherish the memory of this stance and appreciate Korean support during that historical period, reflecting the deep bonds between the two friendly peoples.
He pointed out that bilateral relations faced a new test this year, which further demonstrated the strength of friendship between the two countries, citing the phone call that brought together the foreign ministers of both countries last March, and the visit of Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Jaraah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah to Seoul last August, which was the first visit by a Kuwaiti foreign minister in 19 years.
He clarified that the visit featured extensive discussions reflecting both sides’ commitment to enhancing consultation and coordination on issues of mutual interest.
Ambassador Kim emphasized that friendship between the two countries extends beyond official relations to include practical cooperation, citing the arrival of Korean engineers in Kuwait during the recent security crisis to help repair damaged oil refineries despite difficult circumstances.
Regarding economic cooperation, he noted that Korean companies have contributed to the development of Kuwait’s infrastructure since the 1970s, highlighting Incheon International Airport Company’s success in ensuring operational continuity at Terminal 4 during recent disruptions, and its aspiration to participate in the operation of the new Terminal 2.
He also expressed his country’s hope to enhance bilateral cooperation in defense, health, and infrastructure sectors, alongside expanding cultural and people-to-people exchanges, which would contribute to consolidating the partnership between the two countries.
He concluded his speech by reaffirming that Kuwait-Korea friendship grows stronger with every challenge, expressing his hope that the region would achieve sustainable stability and that bilateral relations would continue to grow and flourish.
