Kyrgyzstan Embassy holds concert to mark 33 years of diplomatic ties with S. Korea

The Kyrgyz Embassy in Seoul marked the 33rd anniversary of diplomatic ties with South Korea by holding a concert titled “Color of Asia” on Wednesday.

“It is a great joy to be here with you today to celebrate the 33rd anniversary of diplomatic relations between our two countries through this meaningful cultural event,” said Kyrgyz Ambassador to Korea Aida Ismailova in her opening remarks.

Recalling the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1992, she also said that Kyrgyzstan and South Korea have cultivated cooperation marked by Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov’s visit to Seoul in December 2024.

Kyrgyzstan and South Korea have elevated their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership, aiming to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, energy, supply chains, development and climate change, as outlined in a joint declaration.

In December 2024, both nations agreed to expand ties in energy and critical minerals, signing a memorandum of understanding focused on renewable energy projects and natural resource supply chains.

South Korea views Kyrgyzstan as a key partner due to its abundant water resources and mineral deposits, such as antimony, which is essential for battery production. The two countries also plan to work together on eco-friendly resource development and refining technologies.

Celebrating this growing relationship, Ismailova underscored the unifying power of culture, calling the concert “a symbolic first step toward deepening ties through the most beautiful and human language — culture and the arts.”

Describing Kyrgyzstan as “the heart of Central Asia,” the ambassador said the performances were “gifts that represent the soul, history and spirit of Kyrgyz art and heritage.”

“For Kyrgyz nationals living in Korea, this concert will surely be a touching opportunity to reconnect with their homeland,” while offering Seoul citizens "a moment of cultural discovery and emotional resonance with the colors and sounds of Kyrgyzstan," she said.

“Culture and the arts are more than just spectacles — they are powerful bridges that allow us to understand and respect one another,” Ismailova noted.

Meanwhile, Aisuluu, a naturalized Korean citizen from Kyrgyzstan and a member of the Seoul Metropolitan Council, also thanked the performers and applauded the concert’s theme of mutual understanding.

“Events like these help us better understand one another and draw closer together through the arts,” she said.

The event featured artists from Kyrgyzstan, Italy and Mongolia, and was attended by over 1,900 people, including members of the diplomatic corps, international NGOs, Korean cultural enthusiasts and the media.