H.E. Hyung Sik SHIN, Ambassador of Korea to the Holy See

Ambassador Hyung Sik SHIN

Rome [ENA] H.E. Hyung Sik SHIN, the new Ambassador of South Korea to the Holy See, who presented his Letters of Credence to the Substitute for General Affairs, Edgar Peña Parra, on 19 November 2025, kindly granted an exclusive interview to Carlo Marino, Director of Eurasiaticanews and collaborator of European News Agency. - Your Excellency, thank you for your time. The relationship between the Republic of Korea and the

Holy See is often described as uniquely warm and dynamic. Beyond the 60-year history of formal diplomatic ties, how would you characterize the essence of this relationship today? - The Holy See provided crucial support during the establishment of the Republic of Korea’s government and the subsequent process of securing UN recognition for our legitimate government. Since then, the Korean Catholic Church and its faithful have also made significant contributions to our nation's democratization. For a long time, the Holy See has recognized the exemplary role of the Korean Catholic community within Asia, consistently encouraging efforts toward inter-Korean reconciliation and peace on the Korean Peninsula.

In this respect, the relationship between the Holy See and the Republic of Korea has always been characterized by a historically special and enduring bond. Today, based on close cooperation among the Holy See, the Korean Government, and the Korean Church, I believe that bilateral relations have evolved beyond mutual friendship and goodwill into a robust partnership capable of addressing global challenges together. Just as the Republic of Korea emerged from a postwar aid recipient to achieve both industrialization and democratization—and now shares these experiences with the international community—I believe the Korean Catholic Church, energized by the dynamism of K-culture, is uniquely positioned to support and inspire the next generation

of young Catholics worldwide, as well as foster the growth of the Church across Asia. With World Youth Day scheduled to take place in Seoul in 2027, we anticipate that the Republic of Korea and the Korean Church will play an even more meaningful role in accompanying the global Catholic youth community and contributing significantly to the development of the Catholic Church in Asia. - Is it primarily a spiritual partnership, given Korea's vibrant Catholic community? A strategic dialogue on peace, especially regarding the Korean Peninsula? Or a bridge for cultural and humanitarian cooperation? - If I were to define the relationship between the Republic of Korea and the Holy See in a single phrase, I would call it a 'Comprehensive

Partnership for Human Dignity'. It is a multifaceted and interdependent relationship, fundamentally built on a foundation of spiritual partnership, while simultaneously prioritizing the critical issue of strategic dialogue for peace on the Korean Peninsula and extending its positive global influence through cultural and humanitarian cooperation. - The Catholic Church in South Korea is one of the most vibrant in the world, with a remarkable history of lay leadership and rapid growth. From your perspective, how does this active Catholic community influence the bilateral relationship and South Korea's posture on the world stage? The Korean Catholic Church possesses a unique history. It grew independently amidst persecution and martyrdom,

establishing an autonomous lay-led system from its inception, even maintaining a unique structure beyond the typical diocesan level. This vibrant Korean Catholic community constitutes the 'most certain positive link' in our relations with the Holy See. The Holy See recognizes the dynamism and growth of the Korean Church as a powerful symbol of hope for the Universal Church. Within Korean society, the Church maintains a high degree of trust and social engagement. This, coupled with the faithful's strong commitment to education and spirit of service, serves as a crucial foundation for Korea's 'ethical leadership' in the international community.

Notably, Catholic priests played a pivotal role in Korea's democratization process during the military dictatorships of the 1970s and 1980s. Even while enduring imprisonment and torture, their perseverance and unwavering dedication established the foundational basis for the profound trust the Catholic Church maintains in Korean society today. Collectively, these contributions demonstrate the maturity of Korea's civil society and are a key element in strengthening the nation’s soft power globally. - Does the government see the Church as a key partner in addressing social issues like falling birth rates, an aging society, and promoting a more "human-centered" economy, themes also dear to Pope Francis? We are indeed living in an era where

rapid technological progress necessitates careful consideration of new questions surrounding human dignity. In Korea’s case, our remarkable economic growth has at times raised concerns that certain fundamental ethical values may have been overlooked. As we strive to remain at the forefront of technological innovation, we also confront the societal realities of a rapidly aging population and one of the world’s lowest birth rates. In this context, I believe the vision articulated by the Holy See and the Catholic Church—centered on human dignity, ethics, and human rights—can effectively serve as a moral compass for the ethical values that risk being neglected amidst accelerated technological advancement.

- Peace and reconciliation on the Korean Peninsula is a central pillar of your diplomacy. The Holy See has consistently called for dialogue and peaceful reunification. Can you describe the substance of your discussions with the Vatican Secretariat of State on this matter? Is the Holy See able to play a role, even a symbolic or humanitarian one, that other international actors cannot? The Holy See, I believe, views the resolution of the Korean Peninsula issue within the broader framework of reconciliation and cooperation across Northeast Asia. Should Pope Leo XIV visit Korea for the 2027 World Youth Day, his presence would be decisive in expanding the impact of his message of peace throughout Northeast Asia, specifically by establishing

solidarity with the nations surrounding the Korean Peninsula.As the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Holy See, I fully support the efforts of the Holy See for peace on the Korean Peninsula and globally, and I pledge my unwavering commitment to assist these endeavors. - Pope Francis was a passionate advocate for multilateralism and a more inclusive global order. South Korea has emerged as a leading global power in technology and culture. How do you see your country's role in this "new multilateralism"? Are there specific areas, like digital ethics, artificial intelligence, or climate change, where Korea and the Holy See are collaborating to shape a common ethical framework for the future? I believe that the Republic of Korea

and the Holy See possess significant potential for cooperation, not only at the bilateral level but also across a wide range of global challenges, including human rights, poverty eradication, and conflict resolution. Furthermore, on issues of particular concern to the Holy See—such as climate change, digital ethics, and artificial intelligence—Korea’s dynamic culture and advanced technological capabilities present meaningful opportunities for joint collaboration. - On a more personal note, as the representative of an Asian nation with a deep Catholic tradition to the spiritual center of that faith, what has been during the Jubilee 2025 the most profound or moving moment of your mission here? Was it an audience with the Pope, a pilgrimage

to the tombs of the Apostles, or perhaps witnessing the interaction between Korean pilgrims and the universal Church? -Representing an Asian nation with a profound Catholic heritage is a journey imbued with deep emotion and significance every day. The 2025 Jubilee year makes this especially true. For me, the most meaningful and moving moment has been witnessing the dynamic exchange between Korean pilgrims and the Universal Church. Every time I see so many young Korean pilgrims visiting the Holy Sites in Rome, celebrating Mass, and sharing their faith with fellow pilgrims from across the globe, I vividly realize that the Korean Church is no longer a 'mission field,' but a vibrant and essential 'member' of the Universal Church.

I have not yet had the honor of an audience with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. The profound feeling I experienced last Sunday while meditating before the humble tomb of Pope Francis in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, reminded me of the true purpose of my service on behalf of the Republic of Korea at this spiritual center. All these moments collectively reaffirm my vocation as a vital 'link between the Republic of Korea and the Universal Church.'