By Reporter Anna Kim 

During his visit to Poland, President Yoon Suk-yeol, accompanied by First Lady Kim Keon-hee, hosted a dinner meeting with overseas Koreans living in Poland on July 12. The meeting took place with the participation of around 80 diaspora members actively engaged across Poland.

In his words of encouragement, President Yoon emphasized that since establishing diplomatic relations in 1989, Korea and Poland have built an exemplary and mutually beneficial cooperative relationship, and now both countries have become important strategic partners for each other.

President Yoon mentioned that last year witnessed the record-breaking bilateral trade volume reaching $9 billion, with over 300 Korean companies active in Poland, particularly in advanced industries including defense and nuclear energy. He expressed his hopes for further deepening cooperation in these advanced industries.

President Yoon stated that since the establishment of diplomatic relations, a culture of mutual support has been created among the Korean diaspora in Poland, consisting of embassy personnel, scholars, and cultural artists.

President Yoon cited examples of the diaspora's support during the COVID-19 pandemic, including their proactive efforts in urgent repatriation and vaccination, as well as providing accommodation and essential goods to Korean diaspora and Ukrainian refugees fleeing from the invasion. He expressed his desire for continued harmony and support among the diaspora community, aiming to create a vibrant diaspora society in Poland.

President Yoon emphasized that the Overseas Compatriots Agency, launched in June, will play a crucial role in connecting and bridging the diaspora and the Republic of Korea as a platform. He assured that the Korean government will support the diaspora to freely pursue their aspirations from anywhere in the world.

During the meeting, a performance by a Korean-Polish couple, Mr. Radosław Sobczak (Polish) and Mrs. Jeon Su-hyun (Korean), who are married and reside in Poland, was presented. 

Mrs. Jeon's vocal performance of the song 'New Arirang' accompanied by her husband's piano playing showcased perfect harmony, and the attendees wished for deeper friendship between Korea and Poland.

Furthermore, President Yoon requested an encore of Chopin's 'Heroic' after his husband's performance, and he responded with Chopin's 'Nocturne'.

The President and First Lady warmly applauded the performers after their recital.