Tonga–Republic of Korea Relations
Tonga and the Republic of Korea established diplomatic relations in July 1970, with Tonga becoming the first Pacific island nation to establish formal diplomatic ties with Seoul.
Relations have been strengthened through several high-level visits, including those by Tonga’s then Prime Minister, Lord Tuʻivakanō, in May 2011, Foreign Minister Hon. Fekitamoeloa ʻUtoikamanu in October 2022, and Prime Minister Hon. Huʻakavameiliku in May 2023.
During his 2023 visit, Prime Minister Huʻakavameiliku participated in the inaugural Korea–Pacific Islands Summit in Seoul and held bilateral discussions with then President Yoon Suk Yeol, covering development cooperation, infrastructure and assistance following Tonga’s devastating volcanic eruption and tsunami in January 2022.
In December 2025, HRH Crown Prince Tupoutoʻa ʻUlukalala, Tonga’s Minister for HM’s Diplomatic Services and Minister for HM’s Armed Forces, visited Seoul for the Sixth Korea–Pacific Islands Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. During the visit, HRH joined other Pacific representatives at an audience with President Lee Jae Myung on 10 December 2025.
The Republic of Korea has also strengthened its diplomatic presence in Tonga through the appointment of Mr Tapu Vakai Panuve as Honorary Consul in March 2024.
Strengthening Diplomatic Cooperation
During the luncheon, Comendador Bailey recalled his several visits to the Republic of Korea and his longstanding interest in the country’s history and culture.
Discussions also touched upon opportunities for further cooperation in maritime affairs, climate resilience, sustainable development, education and the Republic of Korea’s expanding engagement with Pacific island nations.
The meeting provided a welcome opportunity to strengthen contacts between the Consulate-General of Tonga and the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Portugal.
Official Link
Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Portugal
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