A journey toward a new 30-year partnership
By Lee Sang-hwa, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Republic of Palau
The year 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea and the Republic of Palau. Since formal ties were established on March 22, 1995, our countries have bridged geographical distance to build a partnership rooted in democracy and liberty. This anniversary will be commemorated with a reception in Koror on September 27 and a performance by a Korean musical troupe the following day, both events honoring the past while looking to the future.
Over the past three decades, Korea and Palau have deepened mutual understanding and trust across economic cooperation, development assistance, and cultural exchange. Much of this progress has been made possible by individuals who quietly nurtured ties long before diplomatic relations were formalized. One such figure is Chairman Ha Soon Seob of the Hanpa Industrial Development Corporation, who has lived in Palau for 46 years and contributed significantly to strengthening bilateral relations.
Trade and development assistance remain central to our partnership. Korea has been a major importer supporting Palau’s economy, while Palau’s marine resources have created opportunities for cooperation. The Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has assisted in health and education. And as evidence of robust people-to-people links, more than 10,000 Korean tourists visited Palau annually before the pandemic.
Palau’s growing role in the Pacific is also noteworthy. In 2026, the country will assume the chairmanship of the Pacific Islands Forum, a chance to amplify its voice on global issues at a time of heightened competition between major powers. Palau has distinguished itself through its steadfast commitment to democracy and the rule of law, values Korea shares and upholds. Together, our countries are working to confront challenges such as climate change and marine conservation—issues that transcend borders.
Palauan wisdom captures this spirit of collaboration. The proverb “Ng di sengsongd e mrecherchii a kauang” (“Even a small stick can make a pot boil”) reminds us that collective efforts, however modest, can achieve meaningful results. President Surangel Whipps, Jr. echoed this during his address at the 78th UN General Assembly in 2023, stressing that global challenges demand solidarity: “We can move mountains if we act together. Our task may be daunting, but remember: Ikamuu!” His words underscore why the futures of Palau and Korea are interconnected with that of the wider international community.
For Korea, 2025 carries its own historic weight, marking the 80th anniversary of liberation and the 75th anniversary of the Korean War. It is both a time of remembrance and an opportunity to chart a forward-looking agenda with Pacific Island nations. Palau will participate in the 6th Korea–Pacific Islands Foreign Ministers’ Meeting this December, a continuation of the first leaders’ summit held in 2023. We expect more concrete cooperation in areas such as climate resilience, maritime security, and cultural exchange.
The new administration of President Lee Jae Myung has committed itself to “practical diplomacy centered on national interests,” a policy that emphasizes building mutually beneficial partnerships while contributing to global goals such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Korea will also host the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Gyeongju from October 31 to November 1. With its rich history as the ancient Silla capital and its UNESCO heritage sites, Gyeongju mirrors Palau’s own blend of natural beauty and cultural depth. While APEC’s focus is economic cooperation, initiatives such as the APEC Climate Center highlight opportunities to link Pacific Island nations more closely to this framework.
Three decades of Korea–Palau relations demonstrate what can be achieved through friendship and trust. The challenge now is to shape the next 30 years with the same spirit, by focusing on shared priorities like climate action, marine ecosystem preservation, and sustainable tourism. The upcoming anniversary celebrations in Palau will not only honor the past but also reaffirm our joint commitment to a future of peace, prosperity, and partnership.