In an era where diplomacy extends beyond politics and economics, culture has become one of the most profound instruments of connection. We had the honour to meet with with His Excellency Kang Kymgu, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Republic of Azerbaijan, a distinguished diplomat whose perspective on art and cultural exchange illuminates the modern essence of diplomacy. In this exclusive interview conducted by Jamala Nakhchivani, Editor-in-Chief of Global Art Magazine, His Excellency shares his insights on the unifying power of art, the cultural mission of diplomacy, and the value of creative platforms in shaping dialogue and understanding between nations.
H. E. Ambassador Kang Kymgu and Jamala Nakhchivani, the Editor-in-Chief of Global Art Magazine
— Your Excellency, welcome to the Global Art Magazine!
— It is a great pleasure to be interviewed by the Global Art Magazine. I am even more delighted to have this opportunity to meet your readers through this platform. I believe this magazine will become a leading publication in the arts and will play avital role in connecting people through art and culture, thereby contributing to making our society more artistically dignified. I sincerely wish you continued and resounding success in the future.
— Thank you very much, dear Mr Ambassador! Now, our first question is related to the Art and Diplomacy. What role does it play in your life including your activity as an ambassador?
— In my diplomatic activities, I regard art and culture not just as tools, but as a 'Second Language' that constitutes the essential foundation and very lifeline of diplomacy. As the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, a nation well aware of the importance of soft power, I constantly strive to maintain and polish my artistic and cultural sensitivity. To me, art and culture are as essential as 'water is to a fish.' Just as a fish cannot live without water, one cannot forge deep relationships in modern diplomacy without cultural sensitivity. Diplomacy is ultimately a human endeavor, and I believe a rich understanding and mastery of arts and culture are indispensable for becoming a compelling diplomat.
— What is the power of art and culture as a diplomatic instrument?
— I am convinced that art and culture are the most powerful means of winning people’s hearts in diplomacy. They play a decisive role in emotionally bridging gaps that political or economic logic cannot fill, thereby promoting mutual understanding and building trust. Art, in particular, excels at transcending linguistic barriers to appeal to universal human emotions, fostering a favorable atmosphere between nations, which is a crucial foundation for diplomatic success.
— Mr Ambassador, what are the strategies for utilizing and achieving two-way cultural understanding?
— My diplomatic efforts aim not merely at the one-way dissemination of culture but at two-way understanding. As the Ambassador to Azerbaijan, I actively leverage Korean arts and culture to elevate Korea's image. Events such as K-POP festivals, culinary showcases, and the distribution of Korean films have successfully presented Korea as a trendy and dynamic nation to Azerbaijani youth. Taekwondo demonstrations and cultural performances are also effectively utilized platforms to showcase Korea's spirit and culture. Simultaneously, I endeavor to deeply understand Azerbaijan's arts and culture. I respect Azerbaijan’s rich cultural heritage and believe that understanding its traditional music (Mugham), literature, and artistic performances serves as more than a cultural exchange; it is a powerful diplomatic asset for fostering bilateral friendship.
— What are the cultural diplomacy cases in Azerbaijan and future focus areas?
— The Korean Embassy has annually hosted K-POP competitions and 'K-Week' events in Azerbaijan, confirming explosive local participation and high interest in Korean culture. Furthermore, a joint stage performance featuring Korean traditional music and dance alongside Azerbaijani performers was successfully staged during the celebration of Azerbaijan's 100th Anniversary of Establishment, reinforcing cultural solidarity.
Looking ahead, I plan to consult with leaders in Azerbaijan's arts community to strengthen exchanges in Korean digital art exhibitions and architectural design. This will expand the scope of bilateral cultural exchange from traditional to contemporary, cutting-edge artistic fields, further embedding the depth and diversity of Korean culture in Azerbaijan and solidifying our friendly relations.
— Thank you very much, Mr Ambassador Kang Kymgu!
Interview conducted by Jamala Nakhchivani, Editor-in-Chief of Global Art Magazine
