Consul General Kang Seung-seok Assumes Post in Wuhan: "In This Critical Time, We Will Do Our Best to Protect Our Citizens... Maintaining Korea-China Relations"

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[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] Kang Seung-seok, the newly appointed Consul General in Wuhan, will begin consular duties in Wuhan, China, the origin of the coronavirus infection (COVID-19), starting from the 20th. The new Consul General Kang arrived on duty last night aboard a government cargo plane carrying relief supplies.

Kang, who joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1988 as a diplomatic officer, served as Vice Consul in Qingdao, Vice Consul in Hong Kong, and Consul in Shenyang, and although he retired at the end of last year, he took on an important post again after just two months.

Upon arriving at Wuhan Airport early that day, Kang said in an interview with Hubei Broadcasting, "It is very meaningful to be sent to Wuhan during this difficult time," adding, "This year marks the 28th anniversary of Korea-China diplomatic relations, and we will maintain Korea-China relations and understand and support each other under any circumstances." He also noted the very close relationship between Hubei Province and Korea.

He also attended a video conference held by Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha with heads of Chinese regional diplomatic missions the previous day, stating, "During this serious time, based on my experience so far, I will do my best together with the consulate staff to protect remaining Korean nationals and overcome difficulties."

Korea is the only country with consular personnel remaining in Wuhan. So far, four consular officers, including Deputy Consul General Lee Kwang-ho, have stayed to support about 100 overseas Koreans. A Ministry of Foreign Affairs official explained, "The new Consul General Kang is a China expert, and it was judged that a swift appointment was necessary for COVID-19 response and protection of overseas nationals, so he was assigned and took office ahead of the regular personnel reshuffle."

As a result, some speculate that current officials may have been reluctant to be assigned to Wuhan. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs official emphasized, "It is important to use diplomatic assets appropriately regardless of whether they are current or retired officials," adding, "This is the result of selecting the most suitable person."