Greece celebrates 205th Independence Day in Korea

Greece marked its National Day with a formal reception in Seoul, bringing together diplomats, government officials and distinguished guests to commemorate the country’s independence and its enduring ties with Korea. Greece’s National Day, also known as Independence Day and celebrated annually on March 25, honors the start of the War of Greek Independence in 1821.

Hosted by the Embassy of Greece in Seoul, Greek Ambassador to Korea Loukas Tsokos underscored the deepening partnership between Greece and Korea in his opening remarks at the reception, held at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, Wednesday, to mark the 205th anniversary of Greek independence.

In his speech, the ambassador pointed to a series of high-level exchanges as evidence of strengthening ties between the two countries. These included visits to Korea by senior Greek officials in the previous year, such as the ministers of tourism and culture, as well as the deputy minister of maritime affairs.

He also referenced bilateral political consultations held at the deputy foreign minister level in 2024, noting that such engagements demonstrate close cooperation at both governmental and parliamentary levels.

The ambassador went on to highlight a notable milestone achieved this year: the inaugural exchange of cadets between the two countries’ military academies. He described the initiative as a meaningful investment in the next generation of leaders and a symbol of growing trust and collaboration between Greece and Korea.

“These efforts are further reinforced by the support of like-minded counterparts, including the United States, reflecting a shared commitment to security, stability and prosperity,” Tsokos said.

“At the same time, the expansion of collaboration into railway technology highlights the momentum of our economic ties, contributing to the development of high-quality projects in Greece, across Europe, and in the wider region.”

In addition to economic cooperation, the ambassador emphasized the importance of cultural and academic exchange. He cited a forthcoming joint exhibition on Greek maritime history — organized in partnership between the Incheon National Maritime Museum and the National Archaeological Museum of Athens — as a key example of growing cultural dialogue.

He also noted increasing interest in the Greek language and studies in Korea, welcoming the fact that, for the first time, examinations for the Certificate of Attainment in Greek will be held in Seoul this year.

“This vibrant cultural dialogue is reflected in a growing number of joint initiatives that celebrate our shared appreciation for history and learning,” he said.

Following the ambassador’s address, Korea’s Patriots and Veterans Affairs Minister Kwon Oh-eul delivered a commemorative speech, underscoring the deep historical bond between the two nations. The minister paid tribute to Greece’s contribution during the Korean War, noting that approximately 10,000 Greek troops were dispatched to Korea as part of United Nations forces — the sixth-largest contingent at the time.

“The Greek Army, known as the ‘Sparta Battalion,’ demonstrated remarkable bravery and achieved significant success in key regions,” Kwon said, also acknowledging the role of the Greek Air Force in transport operations. “Their courage and sacrifice became a vital foundation for the Republic of Korea as we know it today.”

The minister further emphasized that Korea has never forgotten Greece’s support during one of its most challenging periods, pledging continued gratitude to Greek veterans and a commitment to preserving their legacy for future generations.

The event also served as a platform to reaffirm bilateral relations, with both sides highlighting ongoing cooperation in economic, cultural and academic fields. Guests were encouraged to further strengthen the friendship between the two countries, reflecting a shared commitment to peace, stability and mutual prosperity.