-
Last updated on
125 Years of Diplomatic Relations between Belgium and Korea (1901–2026)
Belgium–Korea relations trace their origins to the late 1800s, when Belgian diplomats and newspapers took an interest in a country then known in Europe as the “Hermit Kingdom.” Early contacts took place in Yokohama in 1882, where Belgium’s first envoy, Charles de Groote, explored the possibility of establishing official ties. Korean officials showed interest, partly because Belgium was seen as a neutral and non‑threatening partner.
This led to the 1901 Treaty of Amity, Commerce and Navigation, signed in Seoul by Belgian Diplomat Léon Vincart and Korean Minister of Foreign Affairs Park Chesun. Both sides referred to each other as “Great Belgium” and “Great Korea.” Léon Vincart became consul general, and King Leopold II provided generous funding for the consulate. Korea appointed Min Yongchan, fluent in English and French, as its first diplomat in Belgium.
Early exchanges also produced a few cultural anecdotes: Belgian diplomats admired the quality of Korean business cards, and protocol misunderstandings, namely bowing or shaking hands, were common but well received.
(Source: Adrien Carbonnet, “The History of the Belgium-Korea Treaty of 1901 through the Belgian Diplomatic Archives”, KU Leuven, Center for Korean Studies)
Belgium’s engagement deepened during the Korean War, when 3,498 Belgian soldiers served under the UN flag. Belgium suffered 101 fatalities, 478 wounded, and five missing. Korea continues to honor this contribution through memorials and annual invitations to veterans. Belgian troops, for their part, kept vivid memories of the harsh winter and their first encounters with kimchi.
After the war, Belgium supported Korea through the UN, including via the Korean Reconstruction Agency (UNKRA). Belgian missionaries also played a role in local development; Father Didier t’Serstevens (known as Ji Jeonghwan in Korea) famously introduced cheese‑making to Imsil, which later became a major industry. Father Charles Meeus, a missionary active in Korea’s Archdiocese of Daegu, worked on Korean translations and engaged in cultural exchange during the 1960s. Charles Meeus is also remembered for helping preserve a historic Taegeukgi bearing Kim Koo’s handwritten message, ensuring its transmission to future generations
Belgium reopened its embassy in Seoul in 1970, reflecting Korea’s rapid industrial growth. Relations strengthened further during moments of economic difficulty, such as the 1997–98 Asian financial crisis, when Belgium contributed through the IMF and Belgian companies maintained their presence in Korea.
More recently, the COVID‑19 pandemic showed how complementary the two countries can be. Belgium’s role as a vaccine‑production hub and Korea’s strengths in medical manufacturing helped keep essential supply chains operational, and both sides exchanged public‑health expertise.
From cautious initial contacts in Yokohama to today’s close cooperation, Belgium and Korea have built a relationship based on mutual respect and steady engagement.
What characterizes the Belgium–Korea partnership is the alignment of our core values. Both countries support democracy, multilateral cooperation, and open trade, which naturally creates a solid basis of mutual trust.
Our economies also share several structural traits. Belgium and Korea are both medium-sized but highly open economies with a strong dependence on exports. Both invest significantly in research and development to maintain global competitiveness. This similar economic model strengthens our complementarity and supports practical cooperation in innovation.
People-to-people exchanges are growing. We are encouraging more contacts between students, young entrepreneurs, researchers, and innovators, recognizing that these new links will shape the future of the relationship. These interpersonal connections add depth and continuity to our bilateral cooperation.
Belgian companies active in Korea point to strong prospects in clean mobility, circular materials, and industrial innovation. Solvay Silica Korea produces high‑performance silica for energy‑efficient tyres from its Saemangeum plant, operating within the stable framework of the EU–Korea FTA. Firms such as Umicore (battery materials and recycling), Syensqo (specialty chemicals), and John Cockerill (hydrogen and industrial solutions) offer platforms for further cooperation in advanced materials, green processes, and industrial technology. Technological collaboration is expanding, with strong potential in semiconductors, nanotechnology, and sensor systems. IMEC already partners with Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix.
Education and research will continue to support new areas of collaboration. Ghent University Global Campus in Songdo, the sole European campus established in Korea as we speak, offers programs in environmental, food, and molecular biotechnology. The Marine@UGent center contributes expertise in ocean science and maritime innovation. Belgian researchers also collaborate with institutions such as Ewha Woman’s University, KAIST, POSTECH, and Seoul National University. Exchange programs (Erasmus+, working‑holiday visas) reinforce mobility and long-term scientific links.
As we mark the 125th anniversary of bilateral relations, our aim is to present a program that reflects the diversity and depth of the Belgium–Korea partnership. Throughout 2026, a range of initiatives in the economic, cultural, artistic, and sports sectors will highlight Belgian expertise and reinforce long-term cooperation.
If you would like to know more about the topic, there is a dedicated Diplomat's Archives: Hidden Stories episode that you can watch on the YouTube channel of Arirang TV.
- 07 Mar – 11 Apr 2026
Exhibition “Yours Truly, Le Cat” by Philippe Geluck, Beaux-Arts Gallery, Seoul.
Selection of works featuring “Le Chat”, one of Belgium’s most recognizable comic characters.
- 24 Mar 2026
Interview with Ambassador Bruno Jans, published in The Korea Times.
The article is available in print and online.
- 11 Apr 2026
Imsil Granfondo (cycling event).
In partnership with Belgian bicycle brand Ridley. Imsil is historically linked to the introduction of cheese production in Korea by a Belgian missionary in the 20th century.
- 24–25 Apr 2026
City Sonic – International Festival of Sound Art, Seoul.
Supported by Transcultures (Belgium). Featuring among many other artists Belgian composer, conductor and cellist Jean‑Paul Dessy.
- 30 May 2026
LIV Golf Korea – Meet & Greet with Thomas Pieters and Thomas Detry, Busan.
Experience LIV Golf Korea 2026 with a meet & greet with the two professional Belgian golfers on the circuit : Thomas Pieters and Thomas Detry.
- 01–04 Oct 2026
Belgian Beer Weekend, Seoul.
Festival offering a wide selection of Belgian beers to the Korean public.
- 13 Nov 2026
Daniel Verstappen Concert, Daegu.
Piano performance by Belgian artist Daniel Verstappen as part of his international tour.
- 08 Dec 2026
Classical music concert, Seoul Arts Centre.
With former laureates of the Queen Elisabeth competition, held annually in Brussels.
This list will be updated regularly as new events are confirmed throughout the year.
Follow the Embassy’s Instagram account @BelgiuminKorea to stay informed about our activities and upcoming announcements.