Professor Kim Kang-seok of Hankuk University of Foreign Studies Arabic Department YTN Interview
"Korea Only Views Middle Eastern Countries from an Economic Perspective"
[Asia Economy Reporter Kang Juhee] Regarding President Yoon Seok-yeol's remark that the "Arab Emirates (UAE) is an enemy less than Iran," Professor Kim Kang-seok of the Arabic Department at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies pointed out that it was a "statement that did not consider the recent reconciliation atmosphere between the UAE and Iran."
In an interview on the 18th with YTN Radio's 'News King Park Ji-hoon,' Professor Kim said, "Although President Yoon's remark came while encouraging the soldiers of the Akgubu unit, it was not cautious," adding this comment.
He said, "The relationship between the UAE and Iran has conflictual aspects but has historically evolved," and "Recently, the relationship between the US and Iran has worsened due to nuclear negotiations not progressing well, and since the UAE is an ally of the US, perhaps it was assumed that they would also be hostile toward Iran. However, this did not carefully consider the recent trends in bilateral relations."
President Yoon Suk-yeol and First Lady Kim Keon-hee, who are on a state visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), visited the Ark Unit deployed in Abu Dhabi on the 15th (local time) and took commemorative photos with the unit members. [Image source=Yonhap News]
When asked whether the UAE and Iran could be considered main enemies, Professor Kim said, "It is excessive to define the concept of a main enemy in the relationship between the UAE and Iran."
Professor Kim explained that although the two countries have historically experienced diplomatic conflicts such as territorial disputes, their trade volume is at a considerable level, making them economic cooperation partners. Also, the UAE is very interested in the tourism industry and economic revival, so it is trying to avoid military confrontations that cause security instability.
Regarding the Iranian government's criticism of President Yoon's remarks as "ignorant of the history of the two countries," Professor Kim analyzed that "it appears to express dissatisfaction that Korea is overly mindful of the US and unilaterally participating in economic sanctions."
Professor Kim expressed regret over viewing Middle Eastern countries only from an economic perspective as "lands of economic opportunity." He emphasized, "When the atmosphere of a 'second Middle East boom' is created, efforts to understand the region's history, culture, and language in the long term are necessary so that Korea-Middle East relations can develop into sustainable relations, not just economically."
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