Colombia Celebrates Independence with a Bold New Partnership with South Korea

Colombia marked its Independence Day with a renewed commitment to strengthening diplomatic, economic, and peacekeeping ties with South Korea—bonds rooted in their shared dedication to the United Nations and enriched by decades of bilateral cooperation.

Colombia’s 215th Independence Day, commemorated on July 20, marks its 1810 declaration of independence from Spain, which had colonized the country since 1549.

“For the first time in its history, Colombia has been elected as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2025–2027 term, where we will serve alongside the Republic of Korea,” Colombian Ambassador to Korea Alejandro Pelaez Rodriguez announced during Monday’s celebration event.

Rodriguez also highlighted Colombia’s recent election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2026–2027.

“Peace, democracy, and freedom form the foundation of the strong ties uniting Colombia and the Republic of Korea,” he stated, recalling Colombia’s historic participation in the Korean War from 1950 to 1953.

“Seventy-four years ago, 5,100 men from all regions of Colombia crossed the Pacific to join the United Nations Command,” Rodriguez recalled.

The ambassador noted that Colombian military officers continue to be stationed at Camp Humphreys, supporting peacekeeping efforts and upholding the 1953 armistice.

Rodriguez expressed his gratitude to Korea and other Security Council members for supporting Colombia’s diplomatic initiatives for peace, both domestically and globally.

He underscored the success of the Korea–Colombia Free Trade Agreement, citing a 43.1 percent increase in Colombian exports to Korea in 2024 and a 76.8 percent rise in the number of exporters since 2016.

Rodriguez outlined Colombia–Korea cooperation in areas such as technology, climate action, and people-to-people exchanges. He highlighted projects including a land reform program that utilizes Korean technology, an establishment of an office for the Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology in Santa Marta, a planned working holiday agreement, and regional exchange initiatives designed to further strengthen the bilateral partnership.

In response, South Korea’s Deputy Minister and Ambassador for Climate Change, Chung Keeyong, commended Colombia’s steadfast support for peace and denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula.

“Likewise, the Republic of Korea has consistently supported Colombia’s journey toward a just and sustainable peace—a complete peace that reflects the aspirations of the Colombian people,” Chung stated.

“A true friend is someone who holds your hand and touches your heart,” Chung added, quoting the renowned Colombian author Gabriel Garcia Marquez.