French Embassy celebrates cultural milestones and a bright future in Seoul

By Im Yoon-seo Posted : December 10, 2024, 12:33 Updated : December 10, 2024, 12:33
 
French Ambassador to Seoul Philippe Bertoux speaks at a reception held at the French Embassy in Seoul on Dec. 9, 2024. AJP Im Yoon-seo


SEOUL, December 10 (AJP) - The French Embassy in Seoul hosted an evening reception on Monday to celebrate the launch of the French government’s global promotional campaign, "Make It Iconic." The event also highlighted the success of the 2024 Paris Olympics and the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral.

"Make It Iconic," an ambitious international campaign envisioned by French President Emmanuel Macron, officially launched in October. The campaign aims to enhance France’s global appeal and promote its cultural, historical, and innovative achievements.
 
The reception brought together over 100 guests, including notable figures such as Kim Woo-jin, a gold medalist at the 2024 Paris Olympics, and members of "Vitality," a professional team from the popular online game, League of Legends. Attendees enjoyed French finger foods, music, and networking opportunities. The event also featured fun activities, such as a raffle for a Lego Notre Dame Cathedral set.

French Ambassador to Seoul Philippe Bertoux praised the achievements of Korean athletes at the Paris Olympics. "I want to have a special word of appreciation for you and your coaches who share in your success. You have made your country proud and are truly inspiring for all of us," he said.

Bertoux also highlighted the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral, which was severely damaged by fire in 2019. “We had an incredible event this weekend with the reopening of the Notre Dame de Paris Cathedral, which burned, as many of you probably saw, in 2019. But the French craftsmen have worked tirelessly, with a lot of energy and, I would say, general mobilization not only in France but internationally, with the support of many nations, to restore this beloved symbol in a very short time, less than five years."

The ambassador highlighted the growing relationship between France and South Korea, noting the steady increase in Korean tourists visiting France. "This evening is not only about France but, most importantly, about the connection between our two countries. Over the past years, the number of Korean tourists traveling to France has increased steadily. By promoting new travel experiences, more sustainable tourism, and deeper cultural exchanges, we hope to encourage more Koreans to explore the wonders of our nation," he said, reaffirming France’s commitment to cultural exchange and stronger ties with South Korea.

 

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