Samoa and other Pacific countries can benefit from the growing popularity of "K-pop" and "K-drama."

So says the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Samoa, Seung-bae Yeo, who wants to reverse the roles and make Samoa and Pacific countries popular among the Koreans so they would want to visit this part of the world.

K-pop is a genre of popular music originating in South Korea. K-drama are television series in Korean language.

According to the Ambassador, Samoa can benefit from a programme designed by the Republic of Korea to support increasing exchange not only between governments, but also among private sector industries such as tourism.

Mr. Yeo said Korea is ready to continue and expand its role for the better future of Samoa.

“As we approach the 50^th anniversary of our diplomatic ties, I believe that to generate new momentum for furthering our bilateral relations, it is important to deepen people to people connections," he said.  

“In addition to exchange of officials, such as those with the K.O.I.C.A. (Korea International Cooperation Agency), I think that tourism and travel can play an important role for our two peoples to get closer. 

“Thanks to a Korean wave of popular culture, including K-Pop and K-drama, Korea has become better known to the people of Samoa and now what we need to do is increase the prominence and profile of Samoa among the Korean people,” he added.

Mr. Yeo said Samoa has big potential.

“It is a gem in the Pacific, with pristine beaches, a tropical climate and your rich Samoan culture.

“As Korean people seek new travel experiences and broaden their horizons, Samoa has a lot to offer to attract Korean tourists. 

“In this regard, I am happy to inform you that my Government has started a new initiative to help raise the profile of Pacific Countries, including Samoa. This March, Korea’s Foreign Ministry launched the Promotion Program for Trade & Tourism (P.P.T.T.) with aims to promote trade and tourism between Korea and Pacific countries,” said Mr. Yeo.

The Korean Ambassador said this program is designed to support increasing exchange not only between our governments, but also among private sector industries such as tourism. 

“I hope it will encourage more Koreans to choose Samoa as their tourist destination. 

“I also feel the same passion from S.T.E. participants, who are willing to build bridges between our two countries. I would like to congratulate the Samoa Tourism Authority on holding the Samoa Tourism Exchange and bringing together suppliers of tourism products and services. 

“I sincerely hope that Samoa will become a destination of choice for those foreign tourists who are looking for new opportunities and experiences.”