08 August 2025, Seoul - The ASEAN-Korea Centre (AKC) officially opened the Seoul ASEAN Hall today, coinciding with the 58th ASEAN Day, underscoring the deepening ties and mutual understanding between ASEAN and the Republic of Korea.

The opening ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including H.E. Kim Hwang-sik, former Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea; H.E. Kim Jina, 2nd Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs; H.E. Tanee Sangrat, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Republic of Korea and Chair of the ASEAN Committee in Seoul; Ambassadors and representatives of ASEAN Member States, including Mr. Edwin Gil Q. Mendoza, Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. of the Philippine Embassy in Seoul; and other dignitaries from the diplomatic, cultural, and business communities. 

In his opening remarks, H.E. Kim Jae-shin, Secretary-General, ASEAN-Korea Centre expressed gratitude to all participants and highlighted the Seoul ASEAN Hall as “a vibrant platform to deepen cultural understanding, promote tourism exchange, foster people-to-people connectivity, and enhance economic collaboration between ASEAN and Korea.”

2nd Vice Minister Kim Jina, in her congratulatory remarks, described the event as particularly meaningful as it marked her first ASEAN-focused engagement since assuming her post. She reaffirmed the Korean government’s strong commitment to enhancing its partnership with ASEAN, noting that ASEAN is Korea’s third-largest trading partner, third-largest investment destination, and the top destination for Korean travelers. She emphasized the need for deeper mutual understanding beyond trade and tourism, highlighting culture as a key focus of the current administration. 

The launch exhibition, “Fruity Fruit: Colorful Days in Southeast Asia”, brings this vision to life with vibrant displays on the cultural significance of fruit in the region. ASEAN Member States, including the Philippines, contributed fruit-themed items for the exhibit—ranging from traditional crafts and culinary products to artistic representations—showcasing both cultural heritage and contemporary creativity. These contributions reflect the shared commitment of ASEAN countries to celebrate and promote Southeast Asia’s unique flavors and stories in Korea.

The Philippines’ contribution included the donation of a traditional piña gown by Ambassador Ma. Theresa B. Dizon-De Vega, symbolizing the Philippines’ rich textile heritage, being handwoven from pineapple fiber—a craft deeply rooted in the nation’s culture. 

In addition, the Philippines showcased an assortment of tropical snacks and beverages, including assorted fruit crisps, banana and saba chips, mango chews donated by Oh So Healthy/Innovative Packaging Industry Corporation, Villa Socorro Farm, Leslie Corporation, La Carlota Food Enterprises, and B & C Healthy Snack Foods Inc., as well as coconut, mango, and pineapple fruit juices from Fruits of Life Inc. and Cenmaco. These items highlighted the country’s vibrant food industry and agricultural abundance. 

The Secretary General thanked the ASEAN embassies in Korea, curators, artists, and the AKC team for their invaluable contributions, and announced plans to bring ASEAN cultural showcases to other parts of Korea next year.

“The Seoul ASEAN Hall is more than a venue—it is a visible symbol of the deep and growing partnership between ASEAN and Korea. Today is not only a celebration, but also a preview of more to come,” he remarked. 

The Seoul ASEAN Hall is now open to the public, offering an interactive and immersive gateway to the rich cultures, traditions, and creativity of Southeast Asia.  

The Fruity Fruit – Colorful Days in Southeast Asia exhibition will run from 11 August 2025 to 13 February 2026. END