Sligo County Council was honoured to welcome His Excellency Mr. Yong-kil Kim, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Ireland, to County Hall on Tuesday.
Visit of Republic of Korea Ambassador
Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, His Excellency Mr. Yong-kil Kim, Visits County Hall, Sligo
The Ambassador was accompanied by Ms. Seoyeon Yun, Third Secretary and Vice Consul and Mr. Christian Murphy, Policy Officer.
The visit was hosted by Cathaoirleach Cllr Dónal Gilroy, along with Deputy Chief Executive Marie Whelan, Director of Services Brían Flynn, and Cllr Fergal Nealon.
Speaking at the event, Cathaoirleach Cllr Gilroy said:
“It is an honour to welcome His Excellency Ambassador Mr. Yong-kil Kim to County Hall today. We are deeply privileged to host you in Sligo, a place renowned for its rugged coastlines, majestic mountains, and vibrant arts scene – a landscape that has long inspired poets, musicians, and dreamers.”
The Cathaoirleach highlighted the significance of the visit, noting that it builds on the Ambassador’s previous visit in November 2023 and reflects the strong ties between Ireland and Korea, which celebrated over 40 years of diplomatic relations this year. He referenced milestones such as the Taoiseach’s visit to Korea in 2023, the 30th Anniversary memorial in Seoul honouring Irish soldiers of the Korean War, and historic links dating back to 1871.
The Ambassador’s visit also acknowledged Sligo’s role in fostering Korea–Ireland connections, including the South Korean delegation of 28 representatives who visited in December 2024 to study Sligo’s night-time economy, and the shared appreciation of Sligo’s literary heritage, particularly the works of WB Yeats.
Cathaoirleach Cllr Gilroy emphasised opportunities for collaboration in agri-food, tourism, renewable energy, and sustainable development, noting that the EU–Korea Free Trade Agreement continues to strengthen trade links. He also praised the Korean Embassy’s support for Irish businesses and cultural exchange, stating:
“Friendship is not only about trade or diplomacy, but about people, creativity, and shared humanity.”
The visit concluded with an exchange of gifts, signing of the Distinguished Visitors Book, and a photocall.
