Yoon Soongu

Why an honorary doctorate?

Yoon Soongu has strengthened relations between Korea and the European Union, in areas such as climate, the green energy transition, digitalisation, science and health, and particularly on peace and security. It is for these societal efforts, as well as for his commitment to encouraging scientific research into relations between the EU and Korea, that the Vrije Universiteit Brussel has decided to award him an honorary doctorate. The award was presented during the celebration of the 60th anniversary of EU-Korea relations, in which Yoon Soongu has played a crucial role.

“Korea is ready to work closely with the EU to make a meaningful contribution to sustainable, inclusive and green growth by promoting action on climate change, democracy and global peace and stability.”

Career

As ambassador, Yoon Soongu has played an exceptional role in strengthening ties between the Republic of Korea and the European Union. He has concluded three key treaties, promoted the signing of several International Labour Organisation conventions and the EU’s GDPR legislation. On climate, he was a driving force behind Korea’s involvement in the EU commitment to a carbon-neutral society by 2050, and he has contributed to structural relations with NATO.

Yoon Soongu has also made his mark in relations with Belgium. He coordinated the celebrations of 120 years of diplomatic relations between Belgium and Korea, honoured the Belgian soldiers who fought in the Korean War and played an important role in promoting Korean culture in Belgium.

Scientific research is another area in which Soongu has raised his profile. His embassy has contributed significantly to the success of the prestigious EU in International Affairs Conference, organised by the Institute for European Studies at VUB. Since 2021, the embassy has supported the annual Brussels Forum, an event that brings together Korean and European academics to promote dialogue and cooperation.