The EU and Korea: Partnering for Peace and Security – Europe Day 2025 Marks a Milestone Year

The Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Korea, together with the 25 EU Member States in Korea, hosted a major event to mark Europe Day 2025 under the theme “Partnering for Peace and Security.” The gathering brought together over 700 guests, including diplomats, Korean government officials, business leaders, scholars, and civil society representatives, highlighting the importance of the EU-Korea partnership in a time of global uncertainty. This year’s event carried particular significance as it commemorated the 75 th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, which laid the foundation for European integration. In her remarks, EU Ambassador to Korea H. E. Maria Castillo Fernandez reflected on the EU’s origins as a peace project and reaffirmed its commitment to multilateral cooperation and democratic values. She also underlined the EU’s enduring support for Ukraine, stating, “The EU will continue to support Ukraine in order to defend itself and to integrate the EU as a free, independent and democratic country”. Former Acting President Han Duck-soo also attended the reception as a distinguished guest, highlighting the growing importance of EU-Ro K cooperation and expressing his appreciation for Ambassador Maria Castillo Fernandez’s dedication and leadership in strengthening bilateral ties over the past 5 years. Earlier in the day, the EU Delegation convened a roundtable discussion titled “Peace in Europe, Peace in Asia: Partnering for Peace and Security,” moderated...