Yogyakarta, 14 November 2025 — The Korean Language and Culture Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, held a public lecture titled “Public Diplomacy: Building Bridges Between Korea and Indonesia” featuring Mr. Park Soo-deok, Acting Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, as the keynote speaker. The event took place at the 3rd-floor Auditorium of the Poerbatjaraka Building and served as one of the activities in the 20th Korean Day series.
The event began with welcoming remarks from the Head of the Study Program, followed by an introduction of the speaker by a representative from the Embassy of the Republic of Korea. Mr. Park Soo-deok then opened his presentation by outlining the long-standing relationship between Korea and Indonesia across various sectors. He highlighted education as one of the key areas of cooperation, including through the Korean Government Scholarship (KGS) program, which has many Indonesian awardees.
He went on to introduce the concept of public diplomacy as a diplomatic approach that involves broader public engagement. In his presentation, he noted that the development of information technology and communication flows today gives public opinion an increasingly significant role in shaping international relations.
The next session was delivered by an Embassy staff member who discussed examples of public diplomacy initiatives carried out in Indonesia. Several cultural programs regularly organized by the Embassy, including the Korean Film Festival, were presented as examples of how cultural interactions can broaden public understanding of Korea. Through such initiatives, interest in Korean culture among Indonesians has continued to grow, along with opportunities for tourism and cultural exchange. The speaker also emphasized the importance of maintaining bilateral ties through reciprocal exchanges, which allow the relationship to develop in line with the needs of both societies.
The event continued with a question-and-answer session, providing space for students to ask about public diplomacy and Korea–Indonesia bilateral relations. The lecture concluded with the exchange of souvenirs and a group photo. The activity offered students the opportunity to gain insights into diplomatic practices directly from those involved in the field.
(Eunike Serafia N.S)
