El Salvador continues to strengthen its international partnerships, as highlighted by Kwak Taeyeol, the new Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, who emphasized that El Salvador is an important partner for development cooperation in Latin America.

Since presenting his credentials to President Nayib Bukele in May 2025, Ambassador Kwak has prioritized advancing bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, and cultural exchange, noting the country’s skilled workforce and stable environment as key elements for future Korean investment.

“Combining Korea’s high technology and El Salvador’s dynamic human talent opens opportunities across industrial sectors,” the ambassador stated. Korea is already El Salvador’s third-largest trading partner in Asia, and since the 2020 Korea-Central America Free Trade Agreement came into effect, bilateral trade has grown steadily—with Salvadoran exports to Korea increasing by 17% and Korean exports to El Salvador by 15%.

Korean companies have invested over $40 million in El Salvador, generating approximately 10,000 jobs. Ambassador Kwak reiterated his commitment to promoting El Salvador as a prime investment destination, especially under a government that, he noted, has significantly improved security and infrastructure.

In terms of development cooperation, over 100 Salvadorans are currently participating in Korean-led training programs, thanks to initiatives such as KOICA and the Economic Development Cooperation Fund. These programs are expected to expand, alongside more cultural exchanges including the upcoming K-pop Festival at Teatro Presidente on June 21.

Highlighting historical ties since 1962, Ambassador Kwak reflected on the shared values between both nations—democracy, peace, and post-conflict resilience. «El Salvador’s vision aligns with Korea’s growth journey. We believe in this partnership and will continue supporting its path toward prosperity,” he concluded.