KANG Insun, the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, hosted a tour of Korea’s leading defense industry facilities for the foreign diplomatic corps in Korea from Wednesday, April 2, to Thursday, April 3, inviting diplomats from 15 countries to observe Korea’s advanced defense manufacturing capabilities.

During the two-day event, the delegation visited major defense production sites including:

- Hyundai Rotem in Changwon, a manufacturer of K2 tanks,

- Hanwha Aerospace in Changwon, a manufacturer of K9 self-propelled howitzers, and

- Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) in Sacheon, a manufacturer of FA-50 fighter jets.

The visit provided diplomats with firsthand experience of Korea’s cutting-edge weapons systems and manufacturing processes, including test rides in defense vehicles, showcasing the excellence of the Korean defense industry.

In her keynote remarks, Vice Minister KANG emphasized:

"This visit has offered a meaningful opportunity for the diplomatic corps to witness Korea’s outstanding defense production capabilities. The Korean government is committed to actively supporting international defense cooperation through diplomatic efforts and encourages all diplomatic missions in Korea to engage with us in these endeavors."

Sami M. ALSADHAN, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Korea, stated:

"It was a valuable opportunity to directly observe the production of Korean weapon systems. I am optimistic about the continued growth of defense cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Korea."

Artur GRADZIUK, Chargé d' Affaires of the Republic of Poland, added:

"Poland is already successfully operating the K2 tanks, K9 howitzers, and FA-50 jets. We are also pursuing local production of K2 tanks in Poland, and defense cooperation between our countries continues to develop in a mutually beneficial direction."

The diplomatic corps also conveyed their condolences and sympathy to the victims and families affected by the recent wildfires in Korea.

Representatives from Hyundai Rotem, Hanwha Aerospace, and KAI assessed the event as an important opportunity to promote Korea’s defense technology and production capabilities and to expand export opportunities to defense partner countries.

In line with Korea's goal of becoming one of the world's top four defense exporters by 2027, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively pursuing tailored diplomatic efforts through overseas missions to support defense exports. The Ministry intends to continue strengthening customized strategies in cooperation with relevant ministries and deepening exchanges with key defense partners worldwide.