TEHRAN- The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Tehran, under the dynamic leadership of His Excellency Ambassador Kim Junpyo, hosted a magnificent reception commemorating South Korea's National Day and Armed Forces Day on the evening of Thursday, September 10, at the Ambassador's residence.

The event, attended by a large number of guests including Iranian government officials and diplomats from various embassies, was another testament to the Korean Embassy's active and influential role in fostering bilateral relations between Tehran and Seoul.

A warm welcome

Guests were warmly received upon arrival by Ambassador Kim Junpyo and his gracious wife, Mrs. Shin Eunah, as well as Ms. Eunkyung Park, Deputy Head of Mission, and Jung Heejin, Military Attaché. What immediately captured everyone's attention was a large painting depicting the famous Korean artwork of the sun, moon, and five peaks, displayed prominently with the inscription "Love From Korea" — a touching gesture that set the tone for an evening celebrating cultural harmony.

The night wrote the nickname of the Korean residence, the house of love, again from all the hospitality and memories with the love.

A friend in difficult times: Celebrating 64 years of Korea-Iran partnership

The Ambassador of the Republic of Korea welcomed guests to celebrate Korea's National Day, expressing heartfelt sympathy for those affected by the recent conflict and sincere hope for peace. Highlighting 64 years of diplomatic relations, he recalled the 1970s and 80s when over 20,000 Korean workers helped build Iran's infrastructure, while Iran offered valuable opportunities during Korea's economic development, building mutual prosperity.

During his two and a half years in Iran, the Ambassador noticed the recurring number "20": 20 high-level exchanges, $20 million in contributions for vocational training and humanitarian aid, 20 cultural events, and annual government scholarships for 20 Iranian undergraduates and 20 graduate students. He stressed that behind every number are people, making investments in people the most important.

Emphasizing that partnership matters most in difficult times, he quoted Persian poet Saadi: "A friend is one who takes the hand of a friend in distress." This is why the Korean Embassy stayed and did not withdraw. He thanked the Korean community, his embassy team for their professionalism, and the Iranian government for extending a helping hand during evacuations. He noted symbolic street names—Tehran Street in Seoul and Seoul Street in Tehran—reminding us of the road kept open between the nations.

The celebration's theme is "Love." The Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art is hosting an exhibition inspired by the Kushnameh, an ancient Persian epic about a Persian prince and a Shilla princess. The Mithra Orchestra will blend cultures through Korea's Arirang and Iranian love songs. The Ambassador concluded by thanking the artists and musicians, wishing for enduring love and friendship between Iran and Korea, and inviting everyone to enjoy the food and music.

Political will of Iran is preserving and continuing friendship with South Korea

Following his remarks, Hamid Ghanbari, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister for Economic Diplomacy, took the podium and highlighted the strong historical ties between the two nations. He stated: "The political will of Iran is committed to preserving and continuing the friendship between the two countries, with a perfect understanding of the capabilities of both nations in various political, cultural, economic, scientific, and technological fields."

Diverse colors of culture with love

Most of the diplomats who attended the event agreed that it was one of the year’s finest cultural events, bringing together the diverse colors of art from both countries.

The Cultural Section of the Embassy, led by Dr. Nara Ohk, orchestrated a harmonious celebration of Korean and Iranian culture through music and painting. The Mithra Ochestra and Choir performed Arirang, Korea’s beloved traditional song about love, separation, and longing for Mount Geumgang, one of the most beautiful mountains on the Korean Peninsula.

While the evening featured diverse and engaging programs, including live performances of Korean musical pieces, the most captivating moment came when Ambassador Kim Junpyo took to the stage and performed two famous Persian songs live for the first time: “Soltane Ghalbha” (King of Hearts) and “Porsun Porsun” (Asking, Asking / literally “Asking here and there”). His heartfelt performance demonstrated his genuine love and passion for Iranian culture and the Iranian people, and deeply moved the audience and drew enthusiastic applause.

A special exhibition titled Iranian Arts Shine with Korea featured 20 Iranian paintings inspired by Kushnameh, the thousand-year-old love story of the Persian prince and the ancient Korean princess. The paintings highlighted the beauty and richness of Iranian art while celebrating the historical and cultural connections between Iran and Korea.

 The Korean Mini Museum, presented as a cultural box, offered visitors an opportunity to explore Korean traditions and culture. The event concluded with a screening of a video featuring the 2026 Seoul International Fireworks Festival held the previous week, accompanied by music.

Culinary delights

Following the program, a dinner featuring both Korean and Iranian cuisine was served. Korean dishes, renowned worldwide for their unique flavors, vibrant colors, and delightful aromas, once again delighted the guests' palates and were thoroughly enjoyed by all attendees.

A Legacy of active diplomacy

This celebration was yet another example of the Korean Embassy's remarkable cultural diplomacy efforts under Ambassador Kim Junpyo's leadership. In recent months alone, the Embassy has hosted numerous significant events including:

· A gathering honoring journalists on the eve of Iran's National Journalist Day

· A cultural event commemorating International Museum Day, featuring the "Korean Culture Box" mobile mini-museum

· The Korea-Iran Calligraphy Exhibition celebrating 63 years of diplomatic relations

Ambassador Kim Junpyo's personal commitment to cultural exchange — demonstrated through his Persian song performances and participation in Iranian cultural traditions — has significantly contributed to building bridges of friendship between the Iranian and Korean peoples.

Undoubtedly, the continuation of these efforts will draw a bright horizon for the further expansion of relations between Tehran and Seoul.

The Embassy Team