Diplomatic Summons Issued
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia today, October 2, 2025, summoned South Korean Ambassador Hyondu Kim. The diplomatic action was taken to convey Georgia's regret and concern over the recent establishment of an 'Abkhazian Cultural Center' in Seoul. During the meeting, Deputy Foreign Minister Aleksandre Khvtisiashvili discussed the visit of the Abkhazian 'Minister of Culture' to the Korean Parliament and the subsequent opening of the cultural center.
Ambassador Kim reportedly expressed regret regarding the events and reaffirmed South Korea's consistent position on the territorial integrity of Georgia. He stressed that South Korea does not recognize Abkhazia as an independent state, but rather considers it an integral part of Georgia.
Abkhazian Cultural Center's Opening
The 'Abkhazian-Korean Cultural Center' officially opened in Seoul on September 23, 2025. The opening ceremony took place at South Korea's National Assembly building and was attended by various figures, including Abkhazian Culture Minister Daur Kove and several South Korean Members of Parliament, such as Ahn Ho-young.
The center's stated purpose is to promote Abkhazian culture and foster cooperation through events like concerts and exhibitions. However, the South Korean Ambassador clarified that the South Korean government had not issued any official permission for the center's opening or operation, suggesting its activities might not align with local legislation.
South Korea's Stance on Abkhazia
Despite the presence of South Korean parliamentarians at the center's opening, the South Korean Embassy in Georgia emphasized that the government's official position remains unchanged: it does not recognize Abkhazia's independence and views it as legally part of Georgia. The embassy explained that South Korea's presidential system separates the parliament and the executive, meaning a parliamentarian's actions do not always reflect the government's official stance.
Diplomatic relations between South Korea and Georgia have been maintained since 1992. South Korea upgraded its consular office in Tbilisi to a full embassy in 2024, with Ambassador Hyondu Kim arriving as the first resident ambassador in February 2025, signaling a strengthening of bilateral ties.
Georgia's Unwavering Position
Georgia consistently regards Abkhazia as its sovereign territory, which has been occupied. The summoning of the South Korean Ambassador highlights Georgia's sensitivity to any actions that could be perceived as legitimizing the de facto authorities in Abkhazia or undermining its territorial integrity. The Georgian Foreign Ministry frequently issues statements condemning actions that violate its sovereignty and territorial integrity concerning Abkhazia.
7 Comments
Matzomaster
While Georgia's concern for its territorial integrity is understandable, South Korea did issue a clarification. The disconnect between parliamentary and executive actions creates a complex diplomatic challenge.
Leonardo
Excellent move by Tbilisi. This sends a strong message.
Noir Black
Parliamentarians have their own views. The government can't control every single person's actions.
Coccinella
South Korea already clarified their official position. Georgia is being overly sensitive.
Comandante
Georgia is absolutely right to summon the ambassador. Sovereignty must be respected!
eliphas
Georgia should focus on internal issues, not international cultural events.
anubis
This incident underscores the delicate balance of international relations, especially concerning disputed territories. Georgia's firm stance is expected, but South Korea's explanation about its presidential system offers an important distinction that should be considered.