Australia Embassy in South Korea
Basic Information
Address:
19th Floor, Kyobo Building, 1 Jongro-1-Ga, Jongno-Gu, Seoul 03154, South Korea
Contact Information:
• Phone: +82 2 2003 0100
• Fax: +82 2 735 6601
• Email: seoul-inform@dfat.gov.au
• Website: Embassy of Australia in Seoul
Embassy Services
The Australia Embassy in South Korea offers a wide range of services to both Australian and South Korean citizens. These services include:
1. Visa Processing: The embassy processes various types of visas, including tourist, business, and student visas. They provide information and assistance on visa requirements and application procedures.
2. Passport Services: Australians can apply for new passports, renew existing ones, and report lost or stolen passports. The embassy also provides emergency travel documents.
3. Notarial Services: The embassy offers notarial services such as witnessing signatures, certifying documents, and administering oaths and affirmations.
4. Consular Assistance: The embassy provides assistance to Australians in distress, including in cases of arrest, hospitalization, or other emergencies. They also offer advice on local laws and customs.
5. Registration of Births, Deaths, and Marriages: The embassy registers births, deaths, and marriages of Australian citizens in South Korea.
6. Trade and Investment Services: The embassy supports Australian businesses looking to invest or operate in South Korea and provides information on trade opportunities.
7. Cultural and Educational Exchanges: The embassy promotes cultural and educational exchanges between Australia and South Korea, including scholarships and study programs.
These services are designed to support the needs of Australian citizens abroad and to foster strong bilateral relations between Australia and South Korea.
Diplomatic Relations
Diplomatic relations between Australia and South Korea were established in May 1963. The relationship began to foster mutual cooperation and development. Over the years, the two countries have developed a strong partnership, particularly in trade, defense, and cultural exchanges. In 2014, the Korea-Australia Free Trade Agreement (KAFTA) was signed, significantly boosting economic ties. The relationship has been marked by mutual visits and the signing of multiple agreements to strengthen bilateral ties. The most notable cooperation has been in the defense sector, where both countries have participated in joint military exercises and defense dialogues.
List of Ambassadors
1. Catherine Raper: Current Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary since February 2021. Her responsibilities include representing Australia's interests in South Korea, fostering diplomatic relations, and overseeing the embassy's operations.
2. James Choi: Served from 2016 to 2021. He focused on enhancing economic and cultural ties between the two nations.
3. William Paterson: Served from 2013 to 2016. He played a key role in the implementation of the Korea-Australia Free Trade Agreement.
4. Sam Gerovich: Served from 2008 to 2013. He worked on strengthening defense and security cooperation.
The Australia Embassy in South Korea continues to play a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing the bilateral relations between the two nations, ensuring the welfare of Australian citizens in South Korea, and promoting mutual interests.
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