Busan, Republic of Korea – Ambassador-designate Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez delivered the concluding lecture of a series on Philippines–Republic of Korea (ROK) relations at the Busan University of Foreign Studies (BUFS) on 19 November 2025. The event brought together students of the Philippine Studies and International Studies programs, Filipino professors based in southern Seoul, and members of the Filipino community in Busan and surrounding areas.

In her lecture, Ambassador-designate Fernandez highlighted the historic and dynamic partnership between the Philippines and the ROK, tracing its roots from the Philippines’ early recognition of the Republic of Korea in 1948, formal diplomatic ties in 1949, and the deployment of 7,420 Filipino troops during the Korean War. She emphasized that these historical milestones continue to underpin a forward-looking strategic partnership encompassing political, defense, economic, socio-cultural, academic, and people-to-people cooperation.

The Ambassador-designate detailed key areas of collaboration, including defense modernization, technology transfer, maritime security, cybersecurity, trade, infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and cultural exchange. She also spotlighted the contributions of the 70,000-strong Filipino community in South Korea, as well as Filipino students and skilled workers whose work strengthens bilateral relations and economic development.

During the lecture’s interactive session, participants asked thoughtful questions on topics including ASEAN competitiveness, cultural and language exchanges, and research and development for regional connectivity. Ambassador-designate Fernandez shared insights on how both nations can leverage these areas to further deepen cooperation in the years ahead.

Prior to the lecture, Ambassador-designate Fernandez met with Dr. Soon Heung Jang, President of BUFS. The meeting underscored the mutual commitment to advancing academic and cultural exchanges between Philippine and Korean institutions. Ambassador-designate Fernandez was joined by First Secretary and Consul Flaureen Dacanay and Third Secretary and Vice Consul Reisha Olavario. BUFS Professor Dr. Kim Dong-yeob joined Dr. Jang.

The lecture and university visit reflects the Philippine Embassy’s ongoing commitment to strengthen public diplomacy, deepen engagement with academic institutions, and promote cultural understanding in the ROK. Ambassador-designate Fernandez encouraged the students and community members to actively contribute to nurturing the Philippines–ROK partnership in their professional and academic pursuits. END