Wednesday, 27 May 2026
South Korea’s Ambassador to Egypt, Kim Yong-hyon
South Korea and Egypt celebrate 30 years of diplomatic ties with cultural exhibition
South Korea and Egypt are celebrating the 30th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations—an occasion hailed as a “pivotal milestone” in the ongoing story of collaboration and friendship between the two nations.
Speaking at the event, South Korea’s Ambassador to Egypt, Kim Yong-hyon, described the anniversary as “a turning point and cornerstone in our shared history,” emphasizing the remarkable depth and achievement that the relationship represents. Ambassador Kim praised Egypt as a “strategic partner” for South Korea and highlighted that the nations’ strong people-to-people ties and growing economic cooperation will propel this partnership to even greater heights.
The remarks were delivered at the opening of a special cultural exhibition titled “Ham – What We Carry Together,” hosted at Cairo’s renowned Museum of Islamic Art. The exhibition forms part of a series of festivities marking three decades of diplomatic ties and showcases the rich cultural and historical connections between Egypt and South Korea.
The exhibition draws its name from the Korean tradition of “Ham,” a symbolic gift box presented on important occasions to signify new beginnings and the fulfillment of promises—apt symbols for the lasting partnership between Seoul and Cairo over the past thirty years.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including Alyaa Borhan, Deputy Assistant Foreign Minister for International Cultural Affairs, Hatem Tag El Din, the former Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Protocol Affairs, and Dr. Ahmed Siam, Director of the Museum of Islamic Art.
Visitors to the exhibition are invited on a unique journey through 30 years of bilateral relations, featuring a special display of official diplomatic documents and 15 symbolic gifts exchanged between the two countries’ leaders.
The exhibition also offers a fascinating window into Korean culture, with displays of traditional Korean handicrafts and intangible heritage, providing Egyptian audiences with a rare and meaningful opportunity to experience Korea’s rich cultural legacy.
As both countries look forward to deepening their ties across all fields, this anniversary serves as a heartfelt reminder of the enduring friendship and promising future shared by Egypt and South Korea.