The Republic of Korea's (RoK) Vietnam Week, running from December 5-9, has inspired a range of cultural and business activities, promoting Vietnam's profile and the friendship between the two countries.
A painting exhibition entitled "Vietnam - Four Seasons" organised by Lotus Gallery and the RoK's CheilJedang Group kick-started the festive week in Seoul on December 6.
The displayed paintings portrayed Vietnamese scenery through all four seasons of the year. Its depictions were imbued with grace, friendliness and hospitality.
A ceremony was held at the Vietnamese Embassy headquarters in Seoul on December 7, marking 20 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries. Nearly 400 government officials, and representatives of friendship organisations and the Vietnamese community attended the ceremony.
In his speech, RoK Prime Minister Kim Hwang-sik highlighted major milestones in bilateral relations, including the expansion of cooperation, from strictly trade and investment to the current collaboration on emerging technology, green development, and climate change adaptation.
He attributed stronger bilateral cooperation to high levels of mutual trust and understanding between the two nations, noting the importance of cultural exchanges.
A joint business forum was held on the same day to promote RoK investment in Vietnam's industrial and economic zones. More than 200 Korean businesses attended the event alongside representatives from Vietnamese ministries and provinces.
A special Vietnam-RoK art performance, aired on the Korean Broadcasting System (KBS) on December 8, captured the attention of a large local audience. Traditional Vietnamese dishes were also introduced at the event.
Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh attended many of these activities during his visit.