Ambassador of the Republic of Korea presents credentials

Apia, SAMOA – 21 October 2026 – The Republic of Korea’s new Ambassador to Samoa, His Excellency Mr. Byung-ha Chung presented his Letter of Credence to the Head of State of Samoa, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II at a credential’s presentation ceremony at the Head of State’s official residence in Vailele yesterday morning.

Samoa and the Republic of Korea have enjoyed cordial relations since the establishment of diplomatic relations on 15 September 1972.

In his remarks, the Ambassador reaffirmed Korea’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding friendship with Samoa.

He highlighted the upcoming 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Samoa and Korea in 2027 and underscored the importance of continued cooperation in addressing shared challenges, including climate change and advancing regional priorities under the 2050 Blue Pacific Strategy.

The Ambassador reiterated his commitment to further deepening bilateral ties and strengthening cooperation between the two countries.

The Head of State, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II welcomed His Excellency as the new Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Samoa and reaffirmed our cordial relations over the last 54 years of diplomatic relations which is characterized by people-to-people relations and cooperation in areas of mutual interests

The Head of States also reaffirmed Samoa’s commitment to strengthening relations through the Korea-Pacific cooperation, particularly in addressing shared challenges such as climate change and advancing sustainable development as highlighted in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.

BIODATA: His Excellency Mr. Byung-ha Chung holds a Bachelor of Arts in German from Hankuk University of Foreign Studies in Seoul, Republic of Korea. He joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1993 and held various diplomatic and senior leadership positions, including diplomatic postings to the United States, Iran and Kuwait. His previous roles include Director-General for International Organisations and Ambassador to the State of Kuwait. In September 2024, he was appointed Government Representative for Polar Affairs and Special Representative for the Reconstructions of Ukraine at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During his visit, H.E Byung-ha Chung will call on the Prime Minister and relevant Cabinet Ministers before he returns to Wellington on 17 October 2026.