Reflecting on the significance of the anniversary, Di Carlo Quero likened diplomatic relations to human relationships that require renewal and commitment. "This 60th anniversary represents a time for reflection. In any relationship, whether personal or diplomatic, you need to decide how to continue and what the next stage will look like," the envoy said during an interview with AJP on Feb. 13.
She noted that both nations have undergone significant changes in recent years, including Venezuela’s economic recovery and South Korea’s evolving political landscape. "It is important that, despite past challenges, we restore communication and determine what we want for the next stage of our relations," she stressed.
One area of growing bilateral engagement is sports diplomacy, with Venezuela set to host the Caribbean Baseball League in 2026. Di Carlo Quero revealed that South Korea has expressed interest in being invited to the tournament scheduled to be held in Caracas. "I was fascinated when I heard the news because this would be fantastic for both countries," she said, pointing to the success of previous baseball exchanges, such as Cuba’s participation in a friendly match with South Korea.
Economic cooperation is also gaining momentum, particularly in the beauty and cosmetics sector. "Venezuela is a land where beauty is highly appreciated. We have won seven Miss Universe crowns, and there is a strong demand for high-quality cosmetics," the envoy said.
"South Korean beauty products have already entered the Venezuelan market, and many K-beauty brands are opening stores in Venezuela. It’s a revolution. People wanting to try new products and cosmetics have become a major investment area."
Beyond cosmetics, Venezuela is looking to attract more business investments. Di Carlo Quero highlighted an upcoming "Expo Metal" event in March, which will showcase the country's mineral resources to potential international investors, including South Korea.
"All the major Venezuelan companies in this sector will participate, opening up opportunities for business partnerships," she explained. "South Korea is already working with India on similar initiatives, so why not Venezuela? There is a space for competition and cooperation."
Di Carlo Quero emphasized that Venezuela and South Korea share strong artistic and cultural ties, pointing to past collaborations such as last year’s musical exchange program in Seoul. "We worked with the community center in Seongbuk, near Seoul, and brought a Venezuelan conductor, Freddy Silva, to teach and conduct the 'Orchestra of Dreams,' a project inspired by El Sistema," she said.
The month-and-a-half-long initiative involved collaboration with South Korean conductor Moon Jin-tak, creating a meaningful experience for young musicians. "It was a beautiful experience," she recalled. "The musicians had the chance to learn from a conductor with a different language and style, which broadened their perspectives. At the end-of-year concert, they performed both Venezuelan and Korean pieces, showcasing the richness of cultural exchange."
Di Carlo Quero said that economic and cultural exchanges ultimately serve a greater purpose -- improving people’s lives. "At the end of the day, what do we want? We want our people to live well, to have security, good nutrition, and opportunities to be happy," she said. "As President Maduro said, ‘I will make a decree for the joy of the people.’ Because that’s what matters most, ensuring that people can live with dignity and happiness."
As Venezuela and South Korea move forward, Di Carlo Quero sees this milestone as a turning point to shape the next chapter of bilateral relations. "We are not on the same team such as BRICS or other regional or economic groups, but we are not enemies either," she said. "This is the moment to find ways to understand each other, to cooperate, and to build a future together."
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