ASTANA – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Sept. 14 presented the Order of Dostyk (Friendship), second degree, to five prominent South Korean state and public figures for their contribution to strengthening Kazakhstan-Korea relations, as cooperation between the two countries continues to expand into practical areas including employment, trade, investment and technology.
Photo credit: gov.kz
The awards ceremony was held in Seoul during Tokayev’s state visit to South Korea. Addressing participants, Tokayev emphasized the longstanding friendship between the Kazakh and Korean peoples and described South Korea as a strategic partner of Kazakhstan, Akorda reported.
“Despite the fact that our countries are separated by significant distances, we are brought closer by mutual respect and common interests,” Tokayev said, highlighting South Korea’s economic achievements and international standing.
He noted that the two countries adopted a Declaration on Enhanced Strategic Partnership five years ago and have continued to strengthen political dialogue and cooperation across multiple sectors, including mechanical engineering, energy, metallurgy and advanced technologies.
Employment links add new dimension to cooperation
Recent developments are also creating new opportunities for people-to-people cooperation. Kazakhstan was officially included in South Korea’s Employment Permit System (EPS) in August, becoming the 18th participating country. The first recruitment of Kazakh workers under the system is expected to begin in 2028 following the completion of the necessary procedures.
Dmitry Lee, an entrepreneur living in South Korea, said the development of legal employment opportunities illustrates how bilateral relations are increasingly translating into practical opportunities for citizens.
“Kazakhstan and South Korea continue to develop bilateral relations. One of the most recent significant developments is the expansion of opportunities for Kazakhstan citizens to work legally in South Korea. This is one of the agreements that really demonstrates in practice how relations between Kazakhstan and South Korea are developing,” Lee told The Astana Times.
He also pointed to the broader cultural ties between the two countries, saying that Kazakhstan and South Korea share mutual respect that extends beyond economic cooperation.
Korean community strengthens people-to-people links
Tokayev likewise highlighted the contribution of South Korean companies operating in Kazakhstan and the growing cultural and humanitarian ties between the two countries.
Particular attention was given to Kazakhstan’s Korean community, which numbers more than 100,000 people. Tokayev said the Koryo-saram community plays an important role in the country’s economic and social development and helps strengthen national unity and solidarity.
He noted that Korean cultural centers operate in Kazakhstan, while the Korean Academic Theatre in Almaty remains popular with audiences. Korean-language media, including a newspaper and a dedicated radio program, are also produced in the country.
“The strengthening of friendship between Kazakhstan and Korea meets the common interests of our two peoples,” Tokayev said, describing the awards as a sign of Kazakhstan’s respect and recognition.
Professor Song Young-hoon of Hankuk University of Foreign Studies has taught the Kazakh language for more than 20 years, helping introduce the Korean public to Kazakhstan and its culture. He thanked President Tokayev for the award and expressed appreciation for the recognition of his contribution to strengthening ties between the two countries.
“I have come to believe that Kazakhstan is the most developed country in Central Asia. Through recent reforms, the country has been making important steps forward in its development. I believe that the upcoming summit will further strengthen relations between Kazakhstan and South Korea and open up broader opportunities for cooperation in the future,” he said in the Kazakh language.
