with Affinity

-

Korean Trade Center

The Korean Trade-Invest men I Promotion Agency ha; been present in Budapest since 1937 to facilitate bilal era I relations. page 10

Hankook Tire Martonyi visit to Seoul ; LG Electronics

The Korean company has announced plan? to '. Hungarian Foreign Minister Janos Marionyi paid • LB Eleclroraci has oeen present i further expand its European produclion latility in ' ai-dayvisil to lhe Korea to participate at a i sines 19T2: a 5ubsididry company Racalrrlas, south ol Budapesl. page 1 1 : conference and discuss bilaeral ties, page 12 '• authority for nine countries.

ilh regional page 13

Korean Culture

The Korean Cultural Center holds this year'i Korean Film Week early November while Korean days were recently held here. page U

Accommodated In Hungary with Personal Affinity

INTERVIEW WITH KOREAN AMBASSADOR GWAN-PYO NAM

"SINCE I ARRIVED HERE IN SEPTEMBER 2011, I have aimed at boosting the relations between Hungary and Korea in a mutually beneficial direction, namely, lor the co-prosperity of our two countries, not just ol Korea alone. I am :onvmced that there is a wealth ol opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation between our two countries.

would like the two countries to work harder to !ook lor and materialize untapped areas where we can achievp <,uccessful outcomes."

Ambassador Nam points out He says he is very satisfied with political lelations between Korea and Hungary " Both countries share the same values of democracy and market economy. Also, we are similar in that we. as a responsible stakeholder and middle power in our according regions, play an active role in global issues such as cyber terrorism, water management, energy security, and so on,"

the Ambassador says. Hungary and Korea both have recently hosted highest-level international conferences on cyber space, water management and energy security

"On lop of this, I would like to stress that Hungary has always been a staunch ally of the Republic of Korea regarding Nortti Korean provocations. Hungary was very quick to issue a senps of statemi-nts condemning Norlh Korea's missile and nuclear lests.

Also. Hungary has joined the international elforls to present a joint resolve aga'nst North Korea's threat to the Republic of

Korea Thus, Hungary's unwavering support of the Republic of Korea has contributed greatly to the peace and security of the Korean Peninsula "

He is ot the view that South Koreans demonstrated their calmness in the face of North Korea's threats in early 2013. 'They maintained a dispassionate attitude towards North Korea's tactics to shake Korean society. We did not play into North Korea s strategy. I believe the North Korean leadership learned from their experience early this year that the South Korean society

' L O M i C V (. T N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 3

Korean focus.

is solid and strong enough to be impervious to outside threats."

Economic relations

Ambassador Nam is of the opinion that Korean-Hungarian economic relations are complementary rather than competitive.

Korean companies active in Hungary have created a large number of jobs for Hungarians. "The high quality, yet modest cost of the Hungarian labor force strengthened the competitiveness of their employers, the Korean companies. We are now seeing a virtuous circle in our relations.

Investment leads to job creation. Diligence of Hungarian workers generates high-quality products. The increasing sales revenue of Korean companies entails another round of investment accompanied by additional job creation."

Joining the view of a number of Korean busi- nessmen and trade officials, the Ambassador highlights the strategic importance of Hungary's geographical location and well- educated, diligent workers. "Korean companies' entrepreneurship. combined with Hungary's labor force can further produce mutual benefits for both countries as we have seen so far. I encourage Korean companies (argeting the European market to take full advantage of the Hungarian market- Hungary is a gateway to the European market tor Korean companies. Similarly. Korea is a vital connecting point to the Asian market for Hungarian workers and companies.

As for the most important Korean investors m Hungary, he mentions HANKOOK Tire and SAMSUNG Electronics as being in lirsl place.

Both companies have created aboui 6.000 jobs for Hungarians They are continuously expanding their businesses and deepening their roots in the Hungarian society." He says Ihese big manufacturing companies are quite satisfied with the Hungarian business environment

Given that they have long operated here and relied on the labor force of Hungary, these Korean companies are paying great attention to development of their local Hungarian community for they regard themselves as not only Korean but also Hungarian companies.

"Also, many Korean companies are very active in promoting their corporate social responsibility [CSR] activities and are thus greatly involved in contributing to the welfare ol the local community and the employees."

he adds.

FACTS COMPARED

Recently, the Ambassador visited the town of Tatabanya and lalked to the mayor about a possible Korean investment in the area.

There, he also visited the successful Korean company 'Samsung Chemical' that is planning to expand its local facilities. "I also went to the Tokaj wine region to discuss promoting Korean tourism and possibility of exporting Tokal wines to Korea," he notes.

Multi-level cooperation

The two countries have signed several agreements over the past years, the latest being the one on nuclear cooperation IQctober 2013]. Earlier this year, Ambassador Nam signed a bilateral Working Holiday Program with Hungarian Foreign Minister Martonyi. "This program provides the youth of both countries with opportunities to experience each other's culture and gain a

universities (more than ten of them] have signed memorandums ol understanding iMoUs! with altogether live Hungarian universities with the aim of expediting academic exchanges and strengthening joint research projects." Local governments in Korea have also signed cooperation agreements with Hungarian municipalities.

Some ol them led to the establishment of a sister relationship while others promoted the exchange of people between these cities. As for further possibilities in this area, Ambassador Nam has recently visited the town of Dunaujvaros (near Hankook's Hungarian facility) to make arrangements for a sisterhood relationship with the Korean city of Kurnsan where the main factory of Hankook Tire is located. There is also a Korean sister city possibility for Talabanya, he says.

-> MTiOSii. Oi" CELEBRi'r;C1 Anriusudor Hjm «klrt»« gunts it t>n rwitnc

better understanding of each other. These eichanges between young people wilt serve as a solid basis for the continuation of friendly relations between the [wo countries. Also, those youths who acquire the benefit ol this program - experiencing foreign cultures - gel a bigger sense of the world."

Last year, the Ambassador visited the north- eastern Hungarian city ol Miskolc and discussed the economic development possibilities with its Korean sister city. It is just one example of NGO-type cooperation between the two countries. "I am making efforts to boost our relations in a comprehensive manner, say, at alt levels and in all areas. I believe that municipal governmental partnerships and civilian cooperation are equally as important as central governmental relationships. Korean

Culture

The Ambassador believes cultural relations between Korea and Hungary are still young compared to other relations. "Our similarity, however, outshines our short history ol interaction with each other. The Korean Cultural Center in Budapest is less than two years old. Yet, the statistics on bilateral cultural exchanges imply that our cultural relations did not simply jump rapidly over a short period of time, but that a greater potential lor stronger ties is apparent. Korean language courses started with three classes and have grown into twelve classes within a year. The Taekwondo class was expected to be held as a one-time class, but with great demand from Hungarian applicants, it became a permanent program With the establishment of the Korean Cultural Center, our cultural relations have become more systematic, constant and comprehensive because we now have a permanent location where Hungarians can immerse themselves in Korean culture."

He also mentions that the Korean TV drama 'IRIS' was filmed in Budapest and presented a beautiful impression of Budapest to many Korean viewers. As a result, there are increasing numbers of Korean tourists visiting Hungary who have been inspired by the

• drama

A similar attraction in Hungary for Koreans is - the statue of Ahn Eak-lai, the author of the

" Korean nalional anthem who studied at the Music Academy in Budapest.

The 1788 Summer Olympics in Seoul were one of the most successful Games for

Hungary. To celebrate the 25-year anniversary. Ambassador Nam invited the Hungarian medalists of that event for a dinner where, he says, the participants "

remembered the times when they were young and became national heroes."

Similarities

Gwan-Pyo Mam has been the Korean ambassador in Budapest since 2011. He lives here with his wife - and a small dog, the Ambassador stresses - as their two children (a university professor and a dentist] are grown and live in Seoul.

"Hungary is the first post in Europe in my diplomatic career which has been mostly focused on North America and Asia However, it did not take long before I accommodated myself to life in Hungary." he says, adding that he feels comfortable and at home as if he lived here for a long time.

"This may be related to my personal affinity to Hungary. This feeling of being connected with Hungary might come from the fact that we have many aspects in common. Our languages originated from the same family.

Our racial traits are deemed to have been similar Io each other a long time ago. We have also shared similar historical experiences We maintained our national identity against all the odds. We have suffered invasions frorn outside forces and survived severe tribulations. In this regard, the people of the two countries share similar sentiments, as well. Our culture and feelings are deeply intertwined with the feeling of melancholy for the historical tragedies suffered.' He has also lound similarity connected to taste and flavor. Hungarian cuisine is based on paprika and garlic just like in Korean cuisine.

As fordifferences, he mentions that "Koreans are generally used to a hectic life style. I feel relaxed with the slow and calm pattern of Hungarian life. At the same time, I sometimes become nostalgic of the hectic and fast-paced life in Korea. On the one hand, Hungary's similarity Io Korea makes me feel comfortable. On the other hand. Hungary's difference from Korea makes me both homesick and refreshed from Korea s hustle- bustle."

In the past two years, he has had the opportunity to travel in Hungary extensively, including to towns like Tihany, Eger or Visegrad He likes Hungary's rustic scenery and local peoples' kind attitude towards foreigners.

They are understanding and ready to help foreigners. I have a good memory of all the places that I have visited because Hungarians, whether they live in the city or country side, have always shown kindness to me The oft- seen strings of garlic or paprika hanging under the eaves in the rural village homes of Hungary also warm my heart by making me feel as if I am standing in a Korean hamlet, as it has the exact same practice."

His favorite Hungarian dish is goulash, which, he says, tastes like Yukgaeiang. which is a spicy, soup-like Korean dish made from . shredded beef, scallions, and other - ingredients simmered together for a long : time "Red-colored goulash with paprika

makes me feel at home - and Hungary evokes - lhat feeling in many other Koreans, too." <-

I C I P L O M O C V * T R O O t I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 1

Facilitating Bilateral Business Ties

HUNGARY, A FAVORITE INVESTMENT DESTINATION FOR KOREAN FIRMS

THE KOREAN TRADE- INVESTMENT PROMOTION AGENCY(KOTRA) established its Budapest office back in 1987, before the change of the social and economic system in Ihis country. As for its aims, the organization's name says it all.

As the Director General ol the office [Korea Trade Center). Kim Yongsuk tells Diplomacy Trade, their job is to collect information on the business environment in Hungary and provide Korean companies interested in the Hungarian market with the results of their

research. They also inform Hungarian business organizations as to the intentions of interested Korean companies. "We organize and arrange meetings, exhibitions and other events lor trade delegations coming from Korea and we also support the trips of Hungarian busmesspeople to Korea." As for the economic environment in Hungary, the Director General sees positive signs such as the road reconstruction in Budapest and the multitude ol people in shopping centers, "which suggests a growing consumption." He reminds us that Hungary has a strategic central location in Europe, it has skilled manpower and a high level ol fundamental sciences. "In mid-October, seven Korean companies came here on an exploratory visit. At the end of September, we received an 'auto parts cluster' business delegation ot 11 companies. They had meetings to develop new business models

in trade and/or investment Koreans also visited the northeastern city ol Miskolc for a business session with local companies in the 'automobile cluster'. I hope that meetings like this will lead to the establishment ol Korean factories here m Hungary or at least joint ventures with Hungarian partners." he adds.

It is in Hungary that Korea has the best economic relations in the region, with several green-field investments not only trade. The best examples of this are Samsung and Hankook. which provide jobs for thousands o(

Hungarians. The Director General, who regularly talks to top managers of Korean companies operating here, stresses that for Korean businesses, Hungary is not an Eastern European country but primarily a member state of the European Union. A second consideration is that here, labor costs are less while the labor force is skilled and

welt-educated, "which means that labor productivity is higher here than in the other countries of East and East Central Europe, even comparable to Western Europe. All Ihis makes it worthwhile for Korean companies to invest in Hungary."

Kim Yongsuk has been in Hungary for over iwo years. "On my arrival, my objective was lo increase the volume of bilateral trade and attract more Korean companies here. A Korean pharmaceutical company was registered in Hungary just two months ago and the appearance of more Korean auto parts companies are expected to appear in this country. My target is to see at least one more multinational enterprise from Korea and ten more SMEs investing in Hungary.

These developments are expected to hit the news within a year or two."

He has travelled lo many places in Hungary.

; especially on professional trips to get to

• know the Hungarian economy. "My experience is that many of the municipalities in the countryside are waiting for Korean companies in their area, offering low-cost labor, venues and development projects," the General Director concludes. <-

Bringing Smiles into People's Lives

LG ELECTRONICS PRESENT IN HUNGARY FOR OVER TWO DECADES

"THE GLOBAL MISSION OF THE BRAND IS THAT LG ELECTRONICS becomes the world's leading consumer electronics manufacturer with expansive brand awareness. Therelore. just recently, the 'With LG. it is all possible' slogan was created, embodying care, creativity and an optimistic energy that are key values of the brand. Here, at the Budapest office, we represent and work for the same values," the Managing Director IMDI of LG Electronics Magyar Ltd.. Young Woong Lee explains lo Diplomacy and Trade.

LG Electronics has been present in Hungary since 1992 with this subsidiary company thai currently has regional authority for nine countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria. Croatia, Hungary. Kosovo.

Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia], comprising five business units - Home Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, Air Conditioning & Energy Solutions and Vehicle Components - and being one of the world's leading producers of flat panel TVs, mobile devices, air conditioners, washing machines and refrigerators. LG's subsidiary in the Central and Eastern European region employs around 200 people, performing a wide range of duties, including sales, marketing.

customer service, finance, legal and HR.

Cooperaton in Hungary

Two years ago. LG signed an agreement with Obuda University where students help write Android programs for LG phones. "The purpose of Ihis agreement was for non- graduale students developing Android apps lo acquire some experience in the competitive seclor. as well as learn about manulaclurers'

needs and demands. For LG, this agreement meant thai we were able to install useful Hungarian Android apps onto our mobile devices. Therefore, this cooperation was fruitful lor both parties," the MD points out.

Earlier this year, an 'Engineer Day' and conference were held as "building engineering is another important area where we inlend to increasingly involve future engineers in the world of LG and engineering. Our relationship with the Budapest University of Technology and Economics has become closer each year.

The latest example of this cooperation was the MULTI V™ VRF educational and research air conditioning system we gave to the university as a gitt. Students can use the system to

perform simulation practices, tesls and measurement tasks." he adds.

At the recent Korean national day reception.

LG dazzled participants with the 84-inch screen ULTRA HD TV, which can display crystal clear images in four times the resolution of lull HD. As Young Woong Lee explains, "the home entertainment and mobile communications sectors were delined by a need (or larger screens, which resulted in large-scale developments in the display technology industry. LG had a number of revolutionary innovations in reply to clients' needs, including this ULTRA HD TV. LG also excels in curved screen technologies which represent a new era in the history of mobile and TV lechnology

For instance, LG unveiled the world's first real curved srnartphone, the LG G Flex', which follows the contour of the face. We have also had a pioneering role in introducing the world's firsl CURVED OLEO TV which is optirniied for human vision." Thanks lo the OLED technology, the most natural color and clear picture can tie realized.

As tor Ihe company's corporate social responsibility. "LG Electronics supports children in need around the world, in line with this strategy. LG Electronics Magyar Kft launched a long-term cooperation with Gyermeketkezletesi Alapitvany iMeals for Children Foundation! in June 2013 in Hungary Additionally, employees ol LG Electronics Magyar K f t . donate money, clothes and toys for children in need every Christmas." the Managing Director adds.

LG comfort for Hungarians

Young Woong Lee arrived in Hungary in December 2010. "During my stay here, I have travelled a lot. and have seen numerous places in Hungary. I've had the chance lo see almost all of the big cities, as welt as the major places of interest. My favorite location is the Gellert Hill in Budapest: its exceptional panorama really struck me. Apart from all the beautiful places. Hungary is rightly famous tor its gastronomic culture. My favorite foods are goulash, toltolt kaposzta Istutled cabbage rollsl and Ihe drink is palinka."

LG promises its clients and consumers that

"our innovative products will bring a smile into (heir lives, and that our customers' personal needs always constllule Ihe most important aspect m developing our products." the Managing Director concludes. <-

10

korean focus.

A Crucial and Responsible Economic Player

HANKOOK TIRE IS EXPANDING ITS EUROPEAN FACILITY IN HUNGARY

THE LAST TIME DIPLOMACY AND TRADE VISITED HANKOOK TIRE'S HUNGARIAN FACILITY IN RACALMAS.

south of Budapest, was in early 2011.

This fall, we asked Managing Director (MO]

Sang II Lee whal progress has been made since.

"I am happy to say that the Hungarian factory is still continuously expanding and developing.

This May. we announced plans to further expand our European production facility m Racalmas with an additional EUR 313 million investment, the 3rd expansion phase. Upon completion, our investments in Hungary will total EUR 8BO million. Construction started this July and production in the new unit is

expected to begin in mid-2014 with full capacity being reached in 2015." he says The new production unit will significant^ add to the factory s production volume, totaling an annual output of 17 million tires per year An additional 950 new |obs will be created m the course of the expansion. Hankook Tire Hungary currently employs over 2.300 people The MD says Hankook nurtures a good relationship with the nearby Dunaujvaros College, and other education institutions, as well as labor o f f i c e s countrywide "it'5 wfierp we attract laienl Currently, we haw two scholarship programs, one for high school maintainer students and one for university students In cooperation with regional labor offices and education institutions, we also organize vocational training, as a result of which, we have employed over 1,000 people.

A large proportion of suppliers to the Racalmas facility are also Hungarian.

"We are satisfied with our suppliers in Hungary. Over 75% of Hankook's suppliers are already Hungary-based companies. As an international premium tire rnanufaclurer, we have a strict set of criteria each of our suppliers must meet, based on international quality standards and certifications reguired m the automotive business. Highest quality of service and product are imperative if a company wants to be our supplier." he adds.

Less than a year ago. the Hungarian government signed a slrategic agreement with Hankook Tire Ltd.

'As one of the most significant investors in Hungary and a key market player, the development of the Hungarian economy is in Hankook's interests, as well. For us, the strategic partnership agreement, above all, is an expression of mutual understanding and readiness for cooperation. One of the results ol this agreement is that government officials are now helping us to define potential local suppliers, which is fully in line with Hankook's supplier strategy We find thai administration processes have progress at a faster pace. Also.

regular contact with our experts and ensure the continuous flow of information which is vital to efficient operations," Sang II Lee points out.

The Racalmas faclory is Hankook s sate factory in Europe As the Managing Director says, this gives them great access to the whole European market from Hungary which is a rnajor advantage. This location also accelerates the company s logistics procedures the transportation of their pnxJucls can be done in 5 days withm the EU Another advantage is that many of Hankook's original equipment partners are located m the EU.

Research and development IR&D] is an important part of the company's activity. The MD stresses that as a tire manufacturer dedicated to contributing to advancement in driving, Hankook Tire intensively invests in research and development via five R&D cenlers around the world."

Currently, the Racalmas factory produces tires for Ihe Mercedes-Ben; and Volkswagen Group as well as Hyundai and Kia. Among other car models Hankook is equipping the 2013 car of the year, the all-new VW Golf VII This September, Daimler AG selected Hankook as the original equipment manufacturer for the new Mercedes-Ben;

E-Class. As the MD says, "the ultra- environmentally friendly BlueEFFICIENCY version of Ihe prestigious business limousine requires the 17-mch-size exclusively fitted with Hankook's high-end product Ventus SI evoZ. The Mercedes-Ben; E-Class tires are solely being produced at the company's European high tech tire plant m Racalmas.' Also in September 2013. the company became the original equipment supplier for the BMW 5-Sene5. The highly successful executive car is factory fitted with Hankook Tire's ultra- high-performance tire, Ventus SI evo2, initially in the dimension 225/55R17W. This was the fourth model from BMW Group lo be equipped with Hankook Tire products after the MINI, the BMW 1-Series. and the BMW 3- Senes.

Hankook Hungary currently produces tires for passenger cars. SUVs and light trucks m various specifications. Passenger car radial tires account fo' the majority of the total production while - thanks !o the mcreasea recognition of Hankook Tire s high product quality in Europe - the UHP tire seg>r?n;

shows increasing growtfi rates, as well Hankook Tire Hungary s activities rn the field of corporate social responsibility have also become more significant in the past few year;,

National Disaster Rede' anc the Hungarian Red Cross in 2012. it was the mam sponsor of Ihe 5th and 6th Gyerek ARC Drawing Contest and Exhibit.on m 2CI2 and 2013 and

-^ 3RD EXPANSION PHASE A N N O U N C E M E N T

Hankook CEO Seung Hwa Suh Ion Ihe left! shakes hands wilh Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban after Ihe company's management and Hungarian Government jointly announced (tie 3rd eipansion phase ol Hankook Tire'* plant in Racatmas.

"In 2012, we launched an overarching CSR strategy, the 'Hankook Value Creation Program', which is based on three pillars Environment, Health & Education and Social campaigning Hankook Tire Hungary Ltd., one of Hungary's most dynamically developing companies, as a responsible corporate citizen.

would like lo support environmental and social issues that serve the interests of the . - . • • . ! . . ..r |..|.,

Through this program, the company made winter tire donations worth HUF 20 million total lo the National Ambulance Service, the

r :"e -acton,- T"e «arag:-c --J' :"at 'as oa", o> our cancr^ -- " - = Dor-at'Qn P-ograr-. r iC-'j. H^K;:- 3

donating ;ires worth HUF 2G "-ii.,ic- ;: •- = Nat.o^ai Ambulance Service and 80 smai;

Charitable organizations This year. we also staled ou<- Employee Volunteer Program to suDOdrt Dubi'C benefit organizations suggested by employees in the Dunaujva.os area The aim of the program is to support personal volunteer activities of the employees

As regards plans for the coming years.

Hankook Tire continues to grow en a global and local level. "On a global level, we will continue our aggressive investment in R&D and brand equity enhancement in order to strengthen Hankook's position as a premium brand and to proactively pave our way towards becoming a global leading tire company by 2014. Our original equipment portfolio will further expand on a global scale and we are looking to extend it to the different premium car manufacturers in the future," Sang II Lee

, i, ,

He adds that Hankook Tire Hungary can contribute to this goal to a great extent as the sole European factory of the company

"through our ever increasing production capacity, our extending OE business, as well as the high performance and high quality tires that are produced here We see a great opportunity in the settlement of premium car manufacturers in Hungary and we believe that the Hungarian 'back-industry', with Hankook leading the way, is ready f o r the challenge Hankook Tire is committed to remain a crucial and responsible economic player in Hungary in the long-term." <-

I P L O M i C V t T R A D E I N O V E M I E B IOU

11

Hungary and Korea: Important Partners

HUNGARIAN FOREIGN MINISTER VISITS THE SOUTH KOREAN CAPITAL, SEOUL

HUNGARIAN FORE18N MINISTER JANOS MARTONYI PAID A VISIT TO THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA. October 15-18. The purpose of his trip was two-lold: to participate at the Seoul Conference on Cyberspace and to meet his Korean counterparts in order to give a new impetus to bilateral relations.

Conference on cyberspace

The conference on cyberspace - the London Agenda - was founded by the UK government in 2011 m order to establish a minimum common ground across countries on the issues, providing a platform for the global village lo discuss diverse aspects of cyberspace from international security and cybercrime to economic and social benefits of the Internet

Seoul was the third host of the conference on cyberspace Following London 120111 and Budapest [20121 London enabled the

establishing a minimum common ground for Ihe like-minded countries and devising the firsl steps towards dealing with Ihe related issues. Budapest, in turn, helped solidify this platform for further steps needed in terms of broadening the appeal of the narrative and extending further the scope of its reach to new partners. As part of the Budapest conference, the Hungarian hosts organized a side event, a Youth Forum to offer a stage for young people to engage in interactive discussions and share creative ideas on cyberspace-related issues and policy. Similarly, The Road lo Seoul - Engaging Africa in tackling cyber security challenges workshop organized by the Hungarian Foreign Ministry was also an integral part of Ihe Budapest Africa Forum in June this year, a high level meeting with the participation of more than 40 African countries as well as the top leaders of the African; Union and other regional organizations. The elective of the workshop was to promote the narrative on the cyber space issue lo the continent of Africa, as well.

This year's Seoul Conference (October 17-181, was attended by appr. 1,000 delegates from more than 80 countries. Under the mam theme. "Global Prosperity through an Open and Secure Cyberspace - Opportunities.

Threats and Cooperation', the Conference focused on six areas: Economic Growth and Development. Social and Cultural Benefits.

Cyber security. International Security, Cybercrime, and Capacity Building.

Hungary, along with the UK. the Republic of Korea and the US, had been requested to team up as an informal 'Quartet1 to take a

context on cyberspace The Seoul conference was opened by the President of the Republic

of Korea, Madame Park Geun-hye and the Korean Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se.

Chairmen of the previous two conferences - U K. Foreign Secretary William Hague and Hungarian Foreign Minister Janos Martonyi - also delivered speeches on concerted efforts to belter manage cyberspace

Janos Martonyr emphasized that that the world must step up its efforts to tackle increasing cybercrimes. In his view, Ihe greatest challenges ahead of us are that cyberspace is emerging as a new dimension of conflicts of the future and that there is an exponential rise in criminality in cyberspace, fuelled, somewhat ironically, by the very same advances in digital technology. Accordingly, tackling cybercrime is perhaps the most

productivity globally. The remarkable story of the economic boom of South Korea is a good example, he said, for the extremely close relationship between the evolution of innovation as well as technological and economic development. Indeed, Korea has been dubbed as the poster child of the Internet era as Asia's No. 4 economy chalked up economic growth mornentums through a faster adoption of new information technologies than its competitors. The Foreign Minister added that all stakeholders across the world should join hands to take advantage of the upside potentials of the cyberspace while shunning possible downsides.

'Harnessing the benefits of cyberspace while protecting its freedoms is best achieved

pressing issue of our time and it requires concerted national, regional and international cooperation involving all relevant or affected stakeholders. However, the world created by the Internet and information technology is not all doom and gloom as it also offers big opportunities of economic growth in terms of improved productivity

He underlined thai cyberspace offers plentiful opportunities and a clear consensus has emerged that it is a crucial contributor to economic growth and a key driver of gains in

through inclusive participation of ail stakeholders whose cooperation is absolutely essential," he said. "Governments have to lean by example while also relying on the expertise accumulated by industry, thus sharing Ihe responsibility to mitigate risks, avert threats and make the most of what cyberspace has la offer for Ihe benefit of all."

President Park Geun-hye called for a global effort to close the digital divide at the atari of the 2013 Seoi.1 Conference on Cyberspace "Tc close the still-prevalent digital divide, the

international community should come up with more practical countermeasures against the widening gap." Park said. In his opening remarks, Korean Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se stressed that inter-state cooperation is more important than anything else, stating the need for establishing global standards in cyberspace.

As a conclusion of the conference, delegates agreed to the 'Seoul Principles', which established a set of basic rules addressing various cyberspace issues.

Bilateral ties

Alongside the Conference. Foreign Minister Janos Martonyi also held talks with his South Korean counterpart. Yun Byung-se on October 18 in Seoul and had a courtesy call on the President of the Republic of Korea. The goal of the Hungarian Foreign Minister's negotiations was to give new impetus lo Hungarian-Korean political ties, as well as economic relations.

The Republic of Korea established official relations m 1989 with Hungary, as the first

'enains 10 ae a strong oas.s or Hungar'an- Korean partnership This relation has been very successful and fruitful. The bases of the p a r t n e r s h i p are friendship, common democratic values and common interest regarding the issues of world politics. In 2014, Hungary and Korea are celebrating the 25th anniversary of bilateral relations, which is giving us the opportunity to review the results and experiences of this period and at the same time to set up new objectives together. High

>evel visits by both sides are expected in this important year of quarter of a century anniversary. Hungary considers the Republic of Korea as one of his main political and economic partners in the Asian region Korean enterprises are key figures in the economy of Hungary, and we expect a similarly successful cooperation in the future as well Hungary can provide excellent conditions tor Korean companies to operate their regional centers 'or the European market

During the meeting with the Korean leaders.

Janos Martonyi assured them that Hungary supported Ihe unification pol.cy of Soutri Korea and espoused Ihe efforts !or maintaining peace and security in the Korean peninsula.

Budapest and Seoul will continue their close cooperation in the areas of cyber security.

water management and other multilateral issues. The Hungarian and Korean Foreign Ministers signed a new bilateral agreement on the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. During his visit to Seoul. Janos Msrlonyi also met with Lee Sang Hun. Ihe CEO of Samsung Electronics, and other senior directors of the company <-

He was a member of Minister Martonyi's delegation lo

12

Korean Culture

DID YOU KNOW?

-> Hungary was (he first Eastern European country lo establish ties with Korea in 1989. with the two countries having an pnter-governmeni Agreement on culture and education under which specific cooperation is laid out every Iwo years

IS lot in the Cold Autumn Months

AWARD-WINNING KOREAN FILMS TO BE SCREENED IN BUDAPEST

KOREAN DIRECTORS, ACTORS AND ACTRESSES ARE HOUSEHOLD names among art movie fans. For their delight, the Korean Cultural Center organizes a dim week every year since 2007. This year's edition will lake place at Urania National Film Theatre until November 8. "In total, five films were selected for this event, to be screened lor the very first time in Hungary, with one exception" notes Dora Patffy. PR and Communication Executive at the Korean Cultural Center. "Attendance at the Korean movie week is free, seats are available on a first come first serve basis until there's still capacity.

The films will be screened twice during the week, in Korean with English and Hungarian subtitles"

she continues. According to Gwan-Pyo Nam.

Korean Ambassador to Hungary, who will open the ceremony, these annual film weeks are held as part of the cultural exchange between the two countries, enabling movie enthusiasts to learn

= &:'jt e^ti at^e-'s cj'tu-e Pa'-Hy savs that all dims picked for the festival has won several awards, which stand as a testament to the well- deserved popularity of Korean movies inside the country and all around the world.

Korean Cultural Center The center, directed by Kwon Young Sup, opened its doors on February 10. 2012. Its inauguration marked the opening of the 22nd overseas Korean Cultural Center and eighth on the European continent following bran;hes in France, the UK, Germany, Russia, Poland, Spain, and Turkey. Located in district 12, the two-story center runs diverse cultural programs for the Hungarian public, including Korean language education, taekwondo classes, exhibitions, and cooking classes for authentic Korean cuisine. The center is also set to support Korean film, drama, or K-pop club activities for local communities, while paving the way for active person-to-person and cultural exchanges on both sides. Korean culture intends to move out from the center sometimes: Not long ago, a Korean festival was held at Vasarcsarnok [Great Market Hall.

Fdvam terl. Entitled 'Korean Cultural Days,' the 'estrval cof"CH^sed of various cultural ewts.

embitions that reflect the modern outlook of Korea. It also celebrated K-pop in new ways and offers insight on Korean arts, martial arts, literature, fashion and food.

-> B U O A P E i l S K U H t * N C U L T U R A L C E N T E R opined on ,

the «v*nl had a heartwarming eiparlt nee. old winter d.iy, however those, present al

K O R E A LU E E K 2 0 1 3

-> T R A U I T I O N A L K O R E A N C U L T U R A L F E S T I V A L

Just recently, on October IB-IB, a unique festival was hild a( Budapest's Korean Cultural Center lo share as much Information as possible on Korean culture. The festival kicked oil with the opening o! an exhibition showcasing b e a u t i f u l , handmade, artislicilly painted lam. A lashion show followed, presenting l«»fi n designer Kwon Jin Soon s

gastronomy programs: guests could get an insight ol th preparation of kimchi, this wonderfully healthy Korean dish. Ritual tea listing was lio in fotus. Monks helped those who were eager to learn about the proper way of erving traditional green tea.

This ritual can be defined as a process involving 'arlilic lily, abslraclness, symbolism

Barking Dogs Never Bite Fiandersui gae - 2000 SCREENINGS: November 6, 7 PM and November 7, 9 PM

-> This is a 2000 South Korean dark comedy movie. The film's original Korean title is a satirical take on A Dog of Flanders, a European pet story that is very popular in parts of Asia. It is also the directorial debut of Bong Joon-ho, who would later go on to direct Memories of Murder in 2003 and The Host in 2006. The film tells the story of an out-of-work college professor who is irritated by the sound of barking dogs in hrs apartment building, and eventually resorts to abusing and kidnapping them. Meanwhile, a young woman working at the apartment complex decides to investigate the matter alter she starts receiving notices from the tenants about the missing dogs

Secret Reunion Ui-hyeong-je - 2010

gCHEEMlMGS! November 7. 7 PM and November 3. 5 PM

-> Also known as Blood Brothers, and directed by Jang Hoon. thsi film won a Blue Dragon Film Award in Best Picture category. The story goes.

When North Korean secret agent Ji-won (Kang Dong-wonl crosses the 38th Parallel on a mission, the National Intelligence Service [NISI led by Han-gyu (Song Kang-ho] intervenes, and a shooting rampage ensues in the heart of Seoul. For the incident. Han-gyu is fired and Ji-won is deserted by his agency. Six years later, the two meet by chance and start a business partnership in order to steal information from the other.

Rough Cut 2008

SCREENINGS: November 4,

? PM and Novembers, 7 PM

-^ This action crime film is the debut feature ol director Jang Hoon, who, along with the two leading actors, won the Korean Association of Film Critics' Awards in 2008- The storyline goes; Gang-pae, played by So Ji-sub.

is a local organized crime leader who still wishes he could be in movies Soo-ta. played by Kang Ji-hwan, is a haughty actor who is easy to provoKe.

The two men meet and Soo-ta enlists Gang-pae to join the production. But this real life gangster will only join the production if the fights are real.

u