Writer: Archana K
Editor: Arpita Jena
Picture Credit: JAGRAN JOSH
The bond between The Republic of India and the Republic of Korea (South Korea) is one of the most fascinating examples of civilizational bond that cross beyond borders. Both countries separated by thousands of miles but shared deep historical, cultural, and spiritual connections that build the foundation for the modern diplomatic and strategic partnership we see today.
Ancient Connections: Princess Surirtna and Buddhism:
The bond between India and Korea was started from 1st century CE. According to the historical chronicle The Samguk yusa, and Indianprincess names Suriratna (also known as Heo Hwang-ok) traveled from the ancient Indian kingdom of Ayodhya to Korea and married King Suro of the Gaya confederacy in 48 CE. This legendary story represents a symbolic beginning of the Indo-Korean bond. This story lives on in both nations as a reminder that bonds of family and love can cross oceans, borders and centuries.
Picture Credit: BBC
For Indians, this story remains how indies culture traveled far beyond the borders. For Koreans, it’s a source of pride and linking them to a distant but familiar land. The ties between India and Korea began with family, love and trust.
Buddhism:
Buddhism was founded in ancient India by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) over 2,500 years ago. Buddhism originated in India and traveled to South Korea in the 4th century, Buddhism playing a significant role in Korean culture. In The earliest relationship between in India and South Korea was started in 4th century when Buddhism reached the Korean strand.
Picture Credit: ASIAN COMMUNITY NEWS
At that time India has played a very significant and positive role ever since Korea reclaimed independence in 1945. The trust and huge respects shown by both nations can be assessed from the fact that during the Korean War in 1953, eventually, both sides accepted a resolution proposed by India, leading to a ceasefire agreement on 27 July 1953.
Historical Indo-Korean solidarity:
South Korea was under Japanese occupation from (1910-1945). And India was under British rule from (1757-1947). So, both countries fought very had for freedom, and reclaimed sovereignty in the mid-20th century. Both countries shared their struggles, pain and sacrifice their life to get freedoms.
Picture Credit: Observer Research Foundation
In 1953 the War started in Korea so India sent medical help and humanitarian during and after the war. Indias Army’s role in repatriation of prisoners of War (Custodian Force, Korea). After Independence, both countries become more strong partners. India was one of the early countries to recognize South Korea diplomatically.
Friendship in the Modern Era:
The republic of India and The Republic of Korea was established on 10th December 1974, since then, the agreements have been reached such as the Agreement of Trade promotion and Technological and Economic Co-operation in Science and Technology in 1976 and the investment promotion or protection started from 1996.
In 1992, Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore published his poem, “Lamp of the East”, which shows Korea’s glorious past and bright future. The poem is still remembered by Koreans and even some Korean school included textbooks.
Korea and India’s journey began with historical connections of Suriratna and Kim Suro, Buddhism, and shared struggles and fought for freedoms has today matured into a beautiful and strong friendship. These shared ideals continue to guide their partnership in this modern world. Today South Korea and India stands tall and strong nations.
The Indo-Korea is not only economically and historically developed nations, also its cultural superpower countries. Indo-Korea friendship is role model for the world. As South Korea and India move forward, their bond shows symbol of how history can inspire lasting connections and how two nations, that Separated by distance, but can stand together and building strong and bright future.
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