Current Korean Economic Development, Political Freedom Based on Sacrifices of Ethiopians during Korean War, Says Ambassador 

Addis Ababa, May 3, 2025 (ENA) -- The sacrifices and bravery of Ethiopian troops during the Korean War were instrumental in laying the foundation for the Republic of Korea's current economic development and political freedom, Korea's Ambassador Jung Kang said today.

The 74th Korean War Veterans Memorial Day was celebrated with various programs at the Korean War Veterans Memorial Park in Addis Ababa today.

In a message delivered on the occasion, Ambassador Kang of the Republic of Korea to Ethiopia said Ethiopian soldiers made great sacrifices for the peace and freedom of Korea 74 years ago.

The ambassador further underscored the country's significant role as a strong supporter of peacekeeping operations, expressing admiration for the sacrifices, ability, and strength of Ethiopian peace keepers.

According to him, Ethiopia's initiation of peacekeeping operations during the Korean War between 1950 and 1953 was the genesis of the exceptionally close relationship Korea and Ethiopia share today.

"Because of that participation in the Korean War, Ethiopia and Korea have become very, very special allies," the ambassador remarked, adding, "We are enjoying special friendship based on the Kagnew Battalion."

 

Building upon this crucial historical tie, the bilateral relations between Korea and Ethiopia have flourished.

Ambassador Kang pointed out that Ethiopia stands as the number one recipient of Korean Official Development Aid in Africa, with the annual amount reaching nearly one billion USD.

Beyond development assistance, the two countries are actively fostering stronger political, trade, and investment relations.

 

The ambassador further expressed a strong desire to see the traditional bilateral relations evolve into a more prosperous and sustainable partnership in the future, marked by increased trade and investment.

Commemorating the heroic deeds of Kagnew Battalion, Ambassador Kang offered heartfelt thanks to the battalion and all Ethiopian people.

"Current Korean economic development and the political freedom we are enjoying is based on the sacrifice of Kagnew Battalion and Ethiopian people," he stated.

The ambassador concluded by reiterating the commitment to nurturing the "beautiful relations" into a more prosperous, sustainable, and peaceful future.