By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

The Embassy of Uzbekistan in Korea and the Uzbekistan Tourism Agency jointly held the “Uzbekistan-South Korea Tourism Forum” at the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Seoul on June 9, 2025, inviting representatives from the South Korean travel industry.

Delivering welcoming speech at the forum, Minister Counsellor Fazliddin Arziev of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Seoul said, “It is a great honor to welcome you to the Uzbekistan–Korea Tourism Forum - a meaningful platform that continues to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two nations.”

Noting that Uzbekistan has emerged as one of the most dynamic, safe, and attractive destinations in our region, he said, “We have made it easier than ever for international visitors to explore our country: visa-free access is now available to citizens of 93 countries, and we continue to expand electronic visa services and simplified entry procedures. Air connectivity has also improved significantly — with over 20 weekly flights between our countries operated by Uzbekistan Airways, Asiana Airlines, Qanot Sharq, and now Centrum Air.”

Minister Counsellor Fazliddin Arziev continued to say, “A particularly important milestone this month was the launch of Qanot Sharq’s direct flights on the Tashkent–Busan–Tashkent route, which began on June 4. This new connection opens direct access to Korea’s southwest region and marks a new chapter in regional cooperation and people-to-people exchange.

“These developments reflect the strength of the Special Strategic Partnership between Uzbekistan and the Republic of Korea. As we continue to expand air links and deepen industry collaboration, we are confident that even more Korean travelers will discover the cultural treasures of Uzbekistan — from the architectural splendor of Samarkand and Bukhara to the living history of Khiva.”

Stressing that Uzbekistan highly values Korea’s leadership in smart tourism, digital innovation, and sustainable development, he said, “Integrating Korean technologies with Uzbekistan’s rich heritage sites presents exciting new opportunities for cultural preservation and tourism advancement.”

He added, “Today’s forum is not only a gathering of professionals — it is a platform for new ideas, meaningful partnerships, and shared visions. I encourage you all to engage actively, exchange insights, and collaborate on building innovative travel experiences that will bring our peoples even closer together.”

Meanwhile, a senior official from the Uzbekistan Tourism Agency stated at the forum, “Visitors can travel in Uzbekistan for up to 30 days without a visa, and we are continuing to expand our electronic visa service and simplified entry procedures.”

He added, “Air service has also been greatly improved, with Uzbekistan Airways, Asiana Airlines, Qanot Sharq, and Centrum Air operating more than 20 flights per week between Korea and Uzbekistan.”

Over 100 guests, including representatives from the South Korean travel industry and tourism-related journalists, attended the Uzbekistan-Korea Tourism Forum.