By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

(New Year Message)
Dear readers of the Diplomacy Journal,

On behalf of the Royal Thai Embassy and Team Thailand in Seoul, I would like to send my warmest wishes to the people of the Republic of Korea and the Thai community in the ROK. This season of renewal is an opportune moment to reflect on the deep friendship and ever-growing strategic partnership between our two nations.

In 2024, we witnessed high-level visits to the ROK of Thai Minister of Defence, Minister of Labour, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and that of the President of the National Assembly of Thailand, which underscored our shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation.

To this end, the revival of the Sawasdee Seoul Thai Festival in September 2024, held in the heart of Seoul, with over 50,000 Koreans and friends participating onsite, brought our peoples and cultures closer.

Looking ahead, I am determined to elevate Thailand-ROK relations to a higher level in 2025 through many projects in the pipeline. We eagerly anticipate high-level exchanges between our leaders during the ROK’s APEC host next year, which will further enhance our partnerships in key areas including trade, investment, and culture. The conclusion of the ongoing negotiation of the Thailand-the ROK Economic Partnership Agreement next year will be an important milestone to enhance more prosperous future for both nations.

Thailand and the ROK have always stood by each other as eternal friends in challenging times.  In the year to come, I wish the ROK, our region, and our peoples greater peace, stability, and prosperity.  

May 2025 bring much joy and good health to all. 
Happy New Year!