In a statement released on 17 Jul 2025, Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn received a farewell call by His Excellency Park Jung Wook, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea (ROK) to Cambodia, marking the conclusion of his diplomatic mission. The farewell call took place amidst efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between the two nations.
Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn praised Ambassador Park’s significant contribution in deepening Cambodia-ROK ties, particularly during Samdech Thipadei Prime Minister HUN Manet’s official visit to the ROK in May 2024. The elevated ties were recognized as a Strategic Partnership, and the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the possibility of further elevating it to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in the future.
The two officials stressed the importance of sustained high-level exchanges, including the National Assembly Speaker Kim Jin-pyo’s visit to Cambodia in September 2023, Samdech Techo President of Senate’s attendance to the World Knowledge Forum in the ROK in September 2024, and President of the National Assembly of Cambodia’s participation in the Universal Peace Federation World Summit 2025 in the ROK in April 2025. These exchanges underscored the close cooperation between Cambodia and ROK on various fronts.
Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn noted the steady progress of Cambodia-ROK cooperation across trade and investment, defense and security, education, tourism, and labour. He commended the ROK’s contribution to Cambodia’s socio-economic development through ongoing official development assistance (ODA).
The Ambassador expressed deep gratitude for the close cooperation and excellent coordination extended during his tenure. He also thanked Cambodia for its support of ROK workers, students, and trainees.
Bilateral Cooperation Gains Momentum
Cambodia and ROK have strengthened their ties in various sectors. The bilateral cooperation has improved significantly since the official visit of Samdech Thipadei Prime Minister HUN Manet to the ROK in May 2024, elevating their relationship to a Strategic Partnership.
The progress in trade and investment, defense and security, education, tourism, and labour is evident in the sustained high-level exchanges between the two nations. These exchanges have fostered closer people-to-people ties, including the exchange of students, trainees, and workers.
Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in Sight
Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn emphasized the importance of further elevating Cambodia-ROK relations to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This would be a significant development for both nations, reflecting their shared values and commitment to regional cooperation.
The Deputy Prime Minister’s comments on the potential Comprehensive Strategic Partnership underscored the significance of Cambodia-RPK cooperation in the region. As a key player in Southeast Asian affairs, Cambodia is committed to strengthening its ties with neighboring countries and promoting regional stability.
Closing Remarks
In conclusion, the farewell call by His Excellency Park Jung Wook marked an important milestone in Cambodia-ROK relations. The Deputy Prime Minister’s comments on the significance of sustained high-level exchanges and the potential Comprehensive Strategic Partnership highlight the importance of bilateral cooperation in advancing regional stability and socio-economic development.
As Cambodia continues to navigate its foreign policy landscape, strengthening ties with ROK and other regional partners will remain crucial for promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in Southeast Asia.