By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

The Embassy of the Dominican Republic in the Republic of Korea captivated Korean guests with an exclusive cultural soirée: “Dominican Cigar & Rum Night in Korea”, held on the occasion of the official visit of Ms. Biviana Riveiro, Executive Director of ProDominicana. The event stood out as a refined and one-of-a-kind evening where Dominican tradition and excellence took center stage in the heart of Seoul.

In her welcome remarks, Ambassador Angie Martínez, Head of Mission in Seoul, stated: “Tonight, as we pay tribute to two of the most emblematic symbols of our national identity—our world-class rums and premium cigars—we share with Korea not only the richness of our traditions, but also the Dominican spirit of excellence, creativity, and openness. This event, held during the visit of ProDominicana’s Executive Director, marks the beginning of a renewed phase in our bilateral relations, where diplomacy, culture, and trade converge to build bridges of trust, mutual understanding, and fresh opportunities for both nations.”

For her part, ProDominicana Executive Director Biviana Riveiro noted: “It is an honor to participate in this cultural gathering, thoughtfully organized by the Dominican Embassy in Korea, and to celebrate with you the success of the Dominican Republic–Korea Business Forum. This event allows us to showcase two of our most iconic products—Dominican rum and tobacco—which serve as intangible ambassadors of our identity and have become powerful gateways to our nation on the world stage.”

Korean guests were treated to an elevated sensory experience blending craftsmanship and flavor, with cigar tastings from La Galera, LB Cigars, and Natura, paired with select rums provided through the support of the Dominican Association of Rum Producers (ADOPRON). Featured labels included Barceló, Brugal, Bermúdez, E. León Jimenes, and artisan brands such as Ripiao and New Dominican by Jack & Jack Spirits, reaffirming the diversity and international prestige of Dominican exports.

The night was further enriched by the participation of Luisa Bautista, Dominican cigar maker and founder of LB Cigars, and Mr. Sun-mo Yang (Liam), CEO and founder of Amrita Company, the official distributor of La Galera cigars in Korea—underscoring the growing business and cultural bridges between the two countries.

Ambassador Martínez expressed special appreciation to Mr. Matthias Cohen-Aknine, owner of Pierre Cigar Namsan and a strategic partner in the initiative, whose generous support and hospitality were instrumental to the success of the evening.

Held at Pierre Cigar Namsan, on a scenic terrace overlooking Seoul’s iconic Namsan Tower in the vibrant district of Itaewon, the gathering brought together ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps, Korean government officials, leading entrepreneurs, cultural influencers, and media representatives. The evening was a resounding success and a testament to the power of cultural diplomacy to strengthen ties and unlock new pathways of cooperation between the Dominican Republic and Korea.