A birthday celebration for King Charles III of the United Kingdom took place at the British Embassy in Seoul on May 23. South Korean Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs Kang Jung-ai, former Prime Minister Han Seung-soo, and former Minister of Foreign Affairs Park Jin were among the attendees, alongside ambassadors from the United States, New Zealand, Italy, and members of the South Korean National Assembly.
The event, an important annual diplomatic gathering organized by British embassies worldwide, marked the official birthday of the King, which falls on the third Saturday in June, distinct from his actual birth date in November. It’s a long-standing tradition - like his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, the King celebrates two birthdays because the “official birthday celebration” takes place in the form of Trooping the Colour, a summertime parade held in June.
“In Korea, the King’s birthday celebration is usually held in May before the rainy season starts in June,” said a British Embassy official.
Colin Crooks, the British Ambassador to South Korea, delivered a welcoming speech in both English and Korean, highlighting the significance of commemorating the King’s birthday as an opportunity to reflect on the friendship between South Korea and the U.K. He also emphasized the deepening of bilateral relations following last year’s 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties, citing President Yoon Suk-yeol’s official visit to the U.K. In addition, he highlighted K-pop girl group Blackpink for their contributions to combating climate change, which led to their reception of honors from the royal family.
Minister Kang expressed her honor in attending the gathering aimed at fostering bilateral cooperation. She paid tribute to British individuals who played significant roles in South Korea’s history, including Ernest Bethell, a British journalist who founded the “Korea Daily News” in the early 1900s, as well as Korean War veterans Corporal William Speakman and Colin Thackeray, who defended South Korea during the war. She also expressed South Korea’s enduring gratitude for the assistance provided by the British during challenging times.
Entertainment at the event included a live performance by a U.S. military band and a cocktail bar providing refreshments for the guests. The embassy garden was transformed into a venue for a garden party, where guests enjoyed a buffet-style meal. A separate indoor space featured a dessert area offering a variety of treats and fruits.
Embracing the theme of diversity, a special diversity zone was set up on the embassy’s tennis court, adorned with rainbow flags and panels honoring British figures who contributed to diversity in the U.K. The exhibition reflected the ongoing efforts of the British Embassy in Seoul and Britain towards inclusivity and representation.
As the evening drew to a close, the British Ambassador and some guests took to the dance floor, bringing a lively end to the celebration.
