Korea-Thailand diplomatic relations blossom at ‘Thai Night 2023’

Thai Ambassador to Korea Witchu Vejjajiva gives a speech during the Thai Night 2023 event marking the 65th anniversary of Korea-Thailand diplomatic relations at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, Monday. Korea Times photo by Kim Hyun-bin

By Kim Hyun-bin

The Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul rolled out the red carpet for an evening of cultural celebration and diplomacy, Monday, marking the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Korea.

The event, titled “Thai Night 2023: Where Tradition Meets Modernity,” showcased the rich tapestry of Thai culture and highlighted the strong ties between the two nations at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul.

In his welcoming speech, Thai Ambassador to Korea Witchu Vejjajiva emphasized the significance of the occasion. “Forged from shared sacrifice and courage during the Korean War, our close and dynamic relations continue to grow from strength to strength and have evolved into a mutually beneficial, multifaceted strategic partnership,” he said.

The Royal Thai Embassy expressed its commitment to further enhancing this partnership, covering a wide spectrum of collaboration areas, including economic, security, science, technology, innovation, education and public health.

The ambassador emphasized that 2023 holds another reason for celebration, as it marks a revival in people-to-people exchanges between Thailand and Korea. The end of the COVID-19 pandemic and the relaxation of travel restrictions have led to a significant increase in visitors from both countries, not only for tourism but also for business, education and various other purposes.

“From the beginning of this year up to July, Thais are the fifth-largest group of visitors to the ROK (Republic of Korea) with more than 200,000 arrivals so far and still fast increasing, while the number of Koreans visiting Thailand just surpassed 1 million people last month, making ROK currently third place out of all foreign visitors who come to Thailand,” the ambassador said.

“The Thai Night you are witnessing is to celebrate not simply how well our two countries have returned to reconnect but also how our valuable people-to-people bonds will become even more solidified in the future, with cultural activities and mutual appreciation making up one of the essential driving forces.”

Thai traditional dancers perform during the Thai Night 2023 at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, Monday. Korea Times photo by Kim Hyun-bin

The theme of the evening, “Where Tradition Meets Modernity,” encapsulates the essence of Thai culture, which blends tradition seamlessly with contemporary influences. Attendees were treated to a delightful journey through Thailand’s culinary arts, traditional performances, contemporary dance shows and the introduction of innovative digital assets, including NFTs, aimed at facilitating easier access to various Thai tourist destinations.

The event also featured several rounds of lucky draws and photo competitions, offering attendees the chance to win enticing prizes, including air tickets and accommodation in Thailand.

Amid the pandemic, the Thai Festival was held exclusively online for over two years. This year signifies the return to an in-person and on-site format.