The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Prague celebrated South Korea's National Day with an elegant reception held at the historic Žofín Palace on Monday, September 22. The diplomatic event brought together high-ranking officials from both nations to commemorate Korea's national holiday while strengthening bilateral relations through cultural exchange and shared experiences.
Guests at the reception were treated to an impressive array of Korean cuisine alongside other international dishes, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of South Korea. The evening's entertainment featured a unique collaborative performance by Korean and Czech musicians, who presented a harmonious blend of European classical compositions and traditional Korean musical pieces, demonstrating the cultural bridge between the two nations.
One of the reception's most engaging features was a specially designated area for the Hanji Crafts Exhibition and Workshop combined with a Traditional Dessert Experience. This interactive space allowed attendees not only to admire the intricate beauty and sophisticated craftsmanship of Korean hanji paper art but also to participate hands-on in creating their own hanji crafts under expert guidance. The workshop provided guests with a deeper appreciation for this ancient Korean art form that transforms mulberry paper into beautiful decorative and functional items.
The event also featured an educational exhibition titled "Korea and the Czech Republic Building Nuclear Power Together," which displayed detailed nuclear power plant models and highlighted South Korea's cutting-edge nuclear energy technology. This showcase emphasized the growing technological partnership between the two countries in the field of clean energy development and nuclear power infrastructure.
Ambassador Hong Young-ki delivered welcoming remarks that underscored the strong friendship between Korea and the Czech Republic. He emphasized that South Korea remains committed to being "a true friend by the Czech Republic's side, walking together on the path of challenges and successes," highlighting the nations' shared commitment to mutual support and collaboration.
Several prominent Czech officials attended the reception and delivered congratulatory speeches expressing their dedication to further strengthening the Korea-Czech partnership. Senate President Miloš Vystrčil, Minister of Foreign Affairs Jan Lipavský, and Minister of Industry and Trade Lukáš Vlček all spoke at the event, each reinforcing their government's commitment to deepening diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties with South Korea. Their participation demonstrated the high level of importance the Czech Republic places on its relationship with Korea across multiple sectors of cooperation.
