15 April 2026, Seoul. Ambassador Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez delivered a lecture at the inaugural Korea University Distinguished Lecture Forum (KU DLF) organized by the Korea University - Asiatic Research Institute on 15 April 2026. The event was participated in by professors from Korea University, Hanyang University, Yonsei University and students from Korea University Graduate School. 

Speaking on “Harnessing the Potential of the Philippines–Republic of Korea Strategic Partnership”, the Ambassador underscored the vibrant and dynamic partnership between both nations, forged by a shared history of sacrifice during the Korean war with the deployment of 7,420 Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea (PEFTOK). She outlined practical areas of cooperation and continued progressive engagement in the political, security, defense, economic, cultural, labor, tourism, and people-to-people areas. The Ambassador also provided highlights on the recent State Visit of President Lee Jae Myung to the Philippines on 3 March 2026, which reinforced the PH-ROK strategic partnership, rooted in mutual respect and shared goals for prosperity.

Ambassador Fernandez also shared insights on how to ensure that the Philippines–Republic of Korea strategic partnership remains dynamic, forward-looking, and closely attuned to the evolving needs of both nations through renewed focus on emerging areas of cooperation, including existing dialogue mechanisms, defense, shipbuilding, energy, creative industries, digitalization, smart agriculture, supply chain strengthening, and collaboration on critical minerals. 

In his congratulatory video message, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines H.E. Lee Sang-hwa, an alumnus of Korea University, commended the institute for its commitment to academic excellence and expressed hope that the inaugural forum will mark the beginning of a long and historic tradition of intellectual leadership.     

After the lecture, Ambassador Fernandez met with Dr. Dong-One Kim, President of Korea University where they discussed further enhancing PH-ROK academic exchanges and linkages. Dr. Kim conveyed appreciation to the Ambassador for accepting the invitation to deliver a lecture at the university. END