Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Qatar H E Hong Jeepio
Doha, Qatar: The Republic of Korea is looking to expand its comprehensive strategic partnership with Qatar by strengthening cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI), advanced technology, investment, energy, infrastructure and cultural exchange, said the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Qatar H E Hong Jeepio.
In an interview with The Peninsula during the Korean National Day celebration, Ambassador Jeepio noted that the occasion provided an important opportunity to deepen mutual understanding, showcase Korean products and culture, and create new avenues for cooperation between the two countries.
He described Qatar-Republic of Korea relations as a “comprehensive strategic partnership” that extends beyond traditional areas of cooperation to include emerging industries and new frontiers of technological development.
“Our comprehensive strategic partnership incorporates not only infrastructure and energy, but also AI and other advanced areas of cooperation, “ Ambassador Jeepio said. “Culture and sports are also important parts of our relationship.”
He stressed the importance of using every available opportunity to bring the two nations closer together, adding that the countries should continue to build on their existing relationship to expand collaboration across multiple sectors.
As Qatar increasingly focuses on AI and high-tech industries, the ambassador identified investment in the Republic of Korea’s technology sector as an area with significant potential for mutual benefit.
“Qatar, and rightly so, is heavily focused on AI and high-tech industries,” he said, pointing to the Republic of Korea’s position as a leading technology nation and the global presence of major Korean companies, including Samsung and SK.
The Ambassador said these companies were well positioned to play a significant role in the global technology landscape, offering opportunities for Qatari investors seeking to participate in the growth of advanced industries.
He highlighted that investment from Qatar could help support technological development while enabling the country to share in the economic returns generated by these industries.
Beyond business and technology, Ambassador Jeepio underscored the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening bilateral relations, noting that cultural activities allow Qataris to experience different aspects of Korean heritage and contemporary life.
He pointed to initiatives such as Korea Week, which features Korean cultural presentations, including traditional drumming, as well as the Ambassador’s Cup, highlighting the role of cultural and sporting events in fostering closer ties between communities.
The ambassador also mentioned the popularity of Korean cuisine in Qatar, such as Buldak and Tteokbokki, which have attracted interest among local consumers.
The official added that the promotion of Korean food, cultural traditions and products was part of a broader effort to expand awareness of the Republic of Korea and create further opportunities for commercial and cultural engagement.
He reiterated that strengthening relations requires continued efforts to encourage collaboration between businesses, institutions and communities in both countries.
With cooperation spanning established sectors such as energy and infrastructure, alongside emerging fields such as AI and high technology, Ambassador Jeepio expressed optimism that the partnership would continue to develop through investment, cultural exchange and closer engagement between Qatar and the Republic of Korea.
