Jakarta (ANTARA) – South Korea is seeking to deepen cooperation with Indonesia through cultural exchanges rooted in both countries’ shared history of their struggles for independence.
Deputy Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Republic of Indonesia, Chung Hae-Kwan, made the remarks after opening the photo exhibition “My Wish, Our Wish: Road to Freedom” at ANTARA Heritage Center in Jakarta on Wednesday.
The exhibition highlights the independence struggles of South Korea and Indonesia, including the story of Korean independence leader Kim Koo.
“Indonesia and Korea have different cultural traditions and heritage, but one important common historical heritage we share is the independence movement and the declaration of independence,” Chung said.
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The exhibition brings together the story of Kim Koo with materials documenting Indonesia’s independence movement. Chung said the event could provide a strong foundation for expanding cultural cooperation between the two countries.
The cultural exchanges between Indonesia and South Korea, including the growing popularity of K-pop and Korean culture in Indonesia, did not emerge in isolation, he added, but could also be built on the countries’ historical and cultural ties.
“This kind of cultural sharing is based on our common historical and cultural heritage,” Chung said.
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Chung also pointed to the proximity of the two countries’ independence commemorations. Indonesia celebrates its Independence Day on August 17, while South Korea marks its Liberation Day on August 15.
He said the two-day gap reflected the close historical ties between the countries’ respective paths to independence, despite differences in the circumstances and processes involved.
“We have very close common historical and cultural heritage in the independence movement. So, that’s why I think this one provides solid basis for cultural sharing,” he said.
Following the elevation of Indonesia-South Korea relations to a Special Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in last April, Chung said he hoped the two countries would not only share their historical heritage, but also expand cooperation and cultural exchanges.
“I think we haven’t reached our full potential. So, maybe that will be our responsibility and our efforts for further cooperation and development together,” Chung said.
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Reporter: Kuntum Khaira Riswan
Editor: Fransiska Ninditya
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