By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

The Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Republic of Korea, with the support of the Fund for Support to Azerbaijani Diaspora, organized a presentation of a newly published Korean translation of six chapters of the Azerbaijani epic “Kitabi-Dada Gorgud.”

The event took place at Seoul National University and attracted representatives of South Korea’s academic and cultural circles, media, members of the Azerbaijani diaspora, and students.

In his welcoming remarks, Ambassador Ramin Hasanov highlighted the growing scientific and cultural ties between Azerbaijan and South Korea. He emphasized that the linguistic and cultural affinities of the two nations—both belonging to the Ural-Altaic language family—serve as a solid foundation for mutual interest and deeper cooperation.

Ambassador Hasanov noted that the Korean edition of “Kitabi-Dada Gorgud” is a meaningful contribution to the promotion of Azerbaijan’s rich national and cultural heritage in Korea. He also informed that 1,000 copies of the publication have been donated to libraries across the Republic of Korea.

Mr. Akram Abdullayev, Executive Director of the Fund for Support to Azerbaijani Diaspora, spoke about the project’s development and the active role of the Azerbaijani diaspora in strengthening Azerbaijani- Korean relations. He underlined that the translation—carried out jointly by Azerbaijani and Korean scholars—marks a significant step in advancing intercultural understanding.

Professor Bang Min Ho of Seoul National University congratulated the Embassy and the project team for their successful collaboration. Sharing his impressions from visits to Azerbaijan, he described “Kitabi-Dada Gorgud” as a masterpiece of oral literature that vividly reflects the ancient history, cultural identity, and traditions of the Azerbaijani people. He expressed his delight in contributing to the translation project, which he said deepened his personal connection to Azerbaijan’s culture and literature.

The event also featured an exhibition of Azerbaijani printed materials, cultural souvenirs, and traditional cuisine.