1. A government delegation of the Republic of Korea, to be led by Ambassador for Arctic Affairs Kim Chan-woo of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will attend the 3rd Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavik, Iceland, from October 16 to 18.

o The upcoming Assembly will bring together 1,500 people, including government officials of each country and experts. They will discuss a range of issues, including Arctic development and economy; climate change and environment; and Arctic route and cooperation in transportation.

2. On the occasion of the upcoming Arctic Circle Assembly, the ROK will host a “Korean Night” event on October 17 to introduce various aspects of Korean culture.

o The Korean Night event takes place following the request made by President of Iceland Grimsson early this year. President Grimsson will attend the event himself, and deliver welcoming remarks.

o This cultural event will feature traditional music and classical dance performances by a troupe from the Busan National Gugak Center, as well as b-boying dance performances of a b-boy group. The event is expected to serve as a good opportunity to introduce the ROK’s traditional and modern culture to participants from around the world.

3. Meanwhile, on the sidelines of the Assembly, Ambassador for Arctic Affairs Kim will pay a courtesy call on Foreign Minister of Iceland Sveinsson, and discuss the way forward for the Arctic Circle, the ROK’s contribution to its development, and other areas for cooperation between the ROK and Iceland.

4. By sending a delegation to the Arctic Circle Assembly and holding a Korean Night event, the ROK will introduce the ROK’s Arctic policy and vision, and strengthen cooperation with Arctic countries regarding the ROK’s entry into the Arctic region, including in commercialization of the Arctic route and Arctic resource development.


*unofficial translation