By UN Journal Lee Kap-soo
“Lithuania is a global leader in laser technology, with its companies supplying precision laser systems used in medicine, industry, and scientific research worldwide,” said Amb. H.E. Ricardas Slepavicius of the Republic of Lithuania on March 6.
In an exclusive interview with Diplomacy Journal held at the Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania in Jongno-gu, Seoul, Amb. Slepavicius said, “Among the three Baltic countries, Lithuania stands as South Korea's largest trading partner. Korean investors are particularly drawn to Lithuania’s rapidly growing biopharmaceutical industry, which has gained recognition for its innovative research and development capabilities.”
He also said, “In Lithuania, the food and tourism sectors have been gaining increasing recognition. In 2024, three major Lithuanian food industry players began exporting their products to South Korea.”
Citing the country's strategic location within the European Union, highly skilled workforce, and investment-friendly policies, the ambassador said, “Such factors further enhance its appeal as a business destination for South Korean enterprises.”
Asked about tourist attractions in Lithuania, he said, “Tourists, coming to Lithuania first of all are attracted by the feeling and surroundings of the country – fresh air and clean water, beautiful, green nature, slow pace lifestyle and friendly people.”
Amb. Slepavicius stressed, “You might even not need any attractions – enjoying the space around you and being just with the nature might be the best holiday. However, those, who wish to explore more, are impressed by Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. Its historical center is included in UNESCO heritage list and with its stunning medieval and baroque architecture rivals the very best in Europe.”
The following is the full-text of the Diplomacy Journal’s interview with Amb. H.E. Ricardas Slepavicius of the Republic of Lithuania.
Question: Diplomatic relations between Lithuania and South Korea were officially formed in 1991. How has the relationship developed over the period?
Answer: Lithuania regained independence from Soviet Union in 1990, and this year (March 11) we will celebrate the 35th anniversary of our restored statehood. Diplomatic relations between Lithuania and Republic of Korea were established in 1991, marking the beginning of a strong and evolving partnership. Over the last 35 years, Lithuania has advanced on its path to democratization, becoming a member of the European Union and NATO. One of our key priorities has been to build strong bilateral relations with other democratic and like-minded nations, including the Republic of Korea. We strongly believe that partnerships between democratic countries play a crucial role in upholding the rules-based international order, which remains a fundamental priority for us.
The relationship between Lithuania and South Korea has been steadily growing, especially since the opening of the Lithuanian Embassy in Seoul in 2021. Several high-level official visits have taken place, including the first ever official visit of Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs and visit of the President of the Republic of Korea to Vilnius during NATO summit in 2023. Another significant milestone is the opening of the Korean Embassy in Vilnius in 2024. This shows that our cooperation continues to strengthen, particularly in areas where we share common values related to democracy and security. Additionally, there is great potential for expanding collaboration in trade, tourism, and innovation – particularly in high-growth sectors such as life sciences and technology.
Q: Please introduce the National Day (Feb. 16, the Day of Restoration of the State of Lithuania) of your Excellency's wonderful country.
A: The Day of the Restoration of the State of Lithuania (February 16, 1918) marks the re-establishment of the historical Lithuanian state and the formation of Lithuania’s ethnic, cultural, and political identity. On this day, after years of oppression of the Lithuanian people, the Council of Lithuania signed the Act of Independence, declaring Lithuania a sovereign and democratic state.
The Day of the Restoration of the State of Lithuania is, above all, a symbol of the unbreakable will of the Lithuanian people to protect their country, language, and identity. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was clear that Lithuania was more than ready to restore its independence. Writers, painters, musicians, politicians, and ordinary people alike worked tirelessly to protect Lithuanian identity and reclaim their statehood.
This was no easy task—Lithuanian books written in the Latin alphabet were banned, forcing people to write in the Cyrillic alphabet. The Russian imperial rule did everything possible to make Lithuania more “Russian”. However, Lithuanians not only preserved their language but also strengthened their national consciousness. The declaration of 1918 laid the foundation for modern Lithuania, allowing the country to develop its state institutions, economy, and international relations. Today, February 16th is a national holiday in Lithuania, celebrated with various events, including official ceremonies, concerts, and public gatherings, honoring the country’s freedom and resilience.
Q: Would you introduce the Feb. 17 concert performed by the Čiurlionis Quartet of the National Philharmonic of Lithuania held on the occasion of the 107th Anniversary of the Restoration of the State of Lithuania and 150th Anniversary of the Birth of the Lithuanian artist Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis?
A: The concert is dedicated not only to Lithuanians celebrating Lithuania’s State Restoration Day far from home, but first of all to Koreans who wish to join in the celebration and experience the music that holds a special place in every Lithuanian’s heart.
Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis, Lithuania’s most renowned artist, profoundly shaped the nation’s culture and heritage, leaving a lasting impact that endures even 150 years after his birth. We are delighted to have this opportunity to introduce his extraordinary music to audiences in Korea, performed by none other than the esteemed Čiurlionis Quartet that bears his name.
The Čiurlionis Quartet’s visit to Korea extended beyond Seoul, reaching audiences in Daejeon, Busan, and Daegu as well. Across these four cities, approximately 1,500 people experienced the quartet’s masterful performance of Čiurlionis’ music. The concerts left a profound impression on Korean audiences, showcasing the richness of Lithuanian musical heritage and deepening cultural ties between the two nations.
Q: What is the present volume of bilateral trade between Lithuania and South Korea? In Lithuania, what kinds of industrial sectors are attractive to Korean investors?
A: The trade volume between South Korea and Lithuania has been steadily increasing, reaching a record high of over 500 million USD in 2022, marking a significant milestone in their economic relations. Among the three Baltic countries, Lithuania stands as South Korea's largest trading partner.
Korean investors are particularly drawn to Lithuania’s rapidly growing biopharmaceutical industry, which has gained recognition for its innovative research and development capabilities. Additionally, Lithuania is a global leader in laser technology, with its companies supplying precision laser systems used in medicine, industry, and scientific research worldwide.
Recently, the food and tourism sectors have been gaining increasing recognition. In 2024, three major Lithuanian food industry players began exporting their products to South Korea. Furthermore, Korean travel shows are showing growing interest in Lithuania as a unique travel destination, with some coming to the country to film material for their programs.
The country's strategic location within the European Union, highly skilled workforce, and investment-friendly policies further enhances its appeal as a business destination for South Korean enterprises. Both countries have successfully navigated their geopolitical challenges, transforming from small nations into resilient and economically strong players on the global stage.
Q: What tourist attractions in Lithuania do you want to recommend to Korean tourists? Do you have any government programs to attract foreign tourists, including Koreans, to Lithuania?
A: Tourists, coming to Lithuania first of all are attracted by the feeling and surroundings of the country – fresh air and clean water, beautiful, green nature, slow pace lifestyle and friendly people. You might even not need any attractions – enjoying the space around you and being just with the nature might be the best holiday. However, those, who wish to explore more, are impressed by Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania.
Its historical center is included in UNESCO heritage list and with its stunning medieval and baroque architecture rivals the very best in Europe. For a pure fairytale thrill there’s Trakai Castle, a beautiful medieval castle that sits on an island in the center of Lake Galve. If you need to get away from it all, there’s no better place than the Curonian Spit. This peninsula with amazing sand dunes is located between the Baltic Sea and the Curonian lagoon. It has been listed as a place you must see before you die (in the travel book 1,000 Places to See Before You Die by Patricia Schultz) and included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as one of the most beautiful and unique landscapes in Europe. The Hill of Crosses also leaves big impression for the tourists – the hill, located in Northern Lithuania, is covered with more than 100,000 crosses and is a sacred place for pilgrims and an awe-inspiring and mysterious site for tourists and visitors.
Regarding government programs to attract foreign tourists, Lithuania has a project called “Travel Lithuania” (Keliauk Lietuvoje). This is the project that actively promotes Lithuania as a travel destination through international marketing campaigns, social media, and partnerships with travel agencies. Their website provides useful information and tips about travel options in Lithuania. Also, there is a short introduction to Lithuanian language, history and culture. Another initiative, “Workation Lithuania,” aims to attract digital nomads and remote workers by encouraging professionals to work remotely from Lithuania while exploring the country. The program offers visa facilitation, networking opportunities, and city guides tailored for remote workers.
Q: Please tell me what was the most rewarding or happiest moment while you have been working as a diplomat.
A: Diplomatic life brings many memorable moments, as we are often part of important milestones for countries and witness various historic events. However, for me, the most important event of my career was when Lithuania became a part of the European Union and NATO in 2004. It was a turning point in Lithuania’s history and in my diplomatic work – we became part of a larger European family and members of the strongest in the world military alliance, united by common values and a shared vision for the future.
This moment was not only professionally significant but also deeply personal. For every Lithuanian, joining the EU and NATO meant new opportunities, security, and a stronger voice on the global stage. It was the realization of years of hard work and aspiration, a step towards a more prosperous future.
Being a diplomat has allowed me to witness and contribute to such crucial developments. The life of an ambassador is both challenging and fascinating – every country I work in brings new experiences, new cultures to understand, and new perspectives to engage with. Adapting to different traditions, building strong bilateral relations, and representing Lithuania’s interests globally require dedication and flexibility. Yet, the opportunity to foster international cooperation and strengthen Lithuania’s position in the world makes every challenge worthwhile.
Q: Does the Embassy of Lithuania have any events planned for 2025, and if so, please elaborate.
A: Without a doubt, the most significant event for the Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania this year was the Čiurlionis Quartet concert, held in celebration of the 107th Anniversary of the Restoration of the State of Lithuania. This remarkable performance not only honored Lithuania’s rich cultural heritage but also strengthened the cultural ties between Lithuania and Korea.
Looking ahead, the embassy’s upcoming events will also be part of EU-organized initiatives aimed at fostering cultural and linguistic exchange. Notable among these are the EU Language Day, EU Film Festival, EU goes to schools project, which will provide valuable opportunities to showcase Lithuania’s traditions, culture and contributions within the broader European cultural landscape.
