A NEW cultural centre in Kuala Lumpur has great potential to promote understanding and collaboration between Malaysia and South Korea.
The hub would provide opportunities for Malaysians to learn more about Korean culture while strengthening the longstanding friendship between the two countries, said Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Chiew Choon Man.
“While diplomacy and economic cooperation provide important foundations for our relationship, culture gives that relationship depth and meaning.
“It allows people to appreciate different perspectives and discover common ground,” he said at the launch of the Korean Cultural Centre at Wisma Golden Eagle Realty in Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur.
Chiew said the growing enthusiasm for Korean culture among Malaysians demonstrated the power of creative expression to connect people across borders.
Music, cinema, cuisine and the arts could introduce a country to new audiences, build interest in its language and history, and inspire people to experience it first-hand, he said.
He hopes the centre will become a lively meeting place for artists, students, educators and families to share experiences and explore new ideas.
Chiew also highlighted the important role young people played in strengthening ties, saying their creativity, openness and familiarity with digital platforms offered new ways to share culture.
“By encouraging them to participate, we can help ensure the friendship between our countries continues to grow for generations to come.”
He noted that culture and tourism were closely connected, as cultural experiences gave destinations their character while creating opportunities for local artists, craftspeople, businesses and communities.
“Someone who discovers a country through its art, food and language may be inspired to visit, explore beyond familiar attractions and develop a more lasting connection with its people,” Chiew added.
Meanwhile, South Korean culture, sports and tourism first vice-minister Kim Young-soo said Malaysia and South Korea had enjoyed 66 years of close friendship since establishing diplomatic relations in 1960.
More than 500 Korean companies, including Samsung Electronics, operate in Malaysia, while bilateral ties have elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2024.
Kim also recalled the historical ties between the two countries, highlighting how Malaysia helped build a bridge in Paju, Gyeonggi province during South Korea’s economic difficulties in the 1960s.
The bridge was subsequently named Malaysia Bridge.
He also noted the involvement of South Korean construction companies in building Penang Bridge in the 1980s.
Kim said culture was one of the most meaningful ways to strengthen understanding and break down barriers between nations.
He said the opening of the centre was particularly significant as Visit Malaysia 2026 welcomed visitors from around the world.
“I hope the cultural centre will serve as a bridge between our people, helping them better understand and respect each other’s cultures, while further strengthening the friendship and trust between our two countries,” he said.
Also present were South Korean ambassador-designate Choi Jung-rok, Foreign Affairs Ministry deputy secretary-general (bilateral affairs) Datuk Syed Md Hasrin Tengku Hussin and Korean Cultural Centre director Lee So Jin.
