By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

 

“Ecuador is truly a gem in the heart of South America and offers an incredible variety of attractions that appeal to all kinds of travelers. Whether you are drawn to tropical beaches, majestic mountains, rich rainforests, or unique islands, Ecuador has it all—often described as offering four worlds,” said Ambassador Patricio Esteban Troya Suárez of Ecuador to South Korea on June 23.

 

In an exclusive interview with the Diplomacy Journal held at the Embassy of Ecuador in Jongno-gu, Seoul, Amb. Suarez said, “The coastal region is a tropical paradise with stunning beaches like Montañita, Salinas, and Los Frailes. Beyond its beautiful shores, visitors can experience charming fishing villages, enjoy exquisite seafood cuisine, and feel the warmth and hospitality of the local people.”

 

 

Noting that the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest is a sanctuary of biodiversity, he said, “Places like Yasuní National Park and the Cuyabeno Reserve offer unique experiences such as navigating winding rivers, observing exotic wildlife, and connecting with Indigenous communities that preserve their ancestral cultures.”

 

Commenting that the Galápagos Islands—famous as the place where Charles Darwin developed his theory of evolution are a natural sanctuary with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking volcanic landscapes, Amb. Suarez said, “The Galápagos offer an unforgettable experience and remain one of the world’s most fascinating biodiversity hotspots.”

 

 

Asked about the industrial sectors in Ecuador which are attractive to Korean investors, Amb. Suarez said, “Ecuador's rich reserves of natural resources—such as copper, zinc, and silver—are particularly attractive to South Korea, which relies on critical raw materials for its industrial supply chains.”

 

Amb. Suarez, who obtained the doctorate in law at Catholic University of Ecuador, Quito in 1998, continued to say, “Meanwhile, Korea’s leadership in advanced technology presents valuable opportunities for technological exchange and industrial modernization in Ecuador. This synergy could drive innovation and development across various sectors, positioning both countries for mutual economic benefit.”

 

Following the interview, Cultural Editor Lee Mi-hyung of Diplomacy Journal who is also professor of Myongji University, presented a folk painting to Amb. Suarez as a gift. Amb. Suarez gave a wooden doll as a gift in return.

 

 

The following is the full-text of the Diplomacy Journal’s interview with Amb. Patricio Esteban Troya Suárez of Ecuador. –Ed.

 

Question: Diplomatic relations between Ecuador and South Korea were officially formed in 1962. How has the relationship developed over the period?

Answer: Ecuador and South Korea share a longstanding and close relationship built on friendship, solidarity, and cooperation, which has strengthened over nearly 63 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1962. Our collaboration extends beyond bilateral matters and includes active participation in multilateral forums, such as joint efforts to promote global peace and security—highlighted by our roles as non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council—as well as cooperation on environmental protection initiatives.

 

In recent years, cooperation between our countries has expanded significantly across various sectors. For example, between 2024 and 2025, nearly 700 scholarships were awarded to Ecuadorian citizens for undergraduate and postgraduate studies in South Korea, including complementary scholarships for those already pursuing higher education.

Following the official visit of Ecuador’s Foreign Minister, Ms. Gabriela Sommerfeld, in 2024, we formalized four academic cooperation agreements between Kyungdong Global University in Korea and prominent Ecuadorian universities, including Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Yachay Experimental University of Research and Technology, Universidad Central del Ecuador, and Universidad Indoamérica.

 

In the defense sector, Ecuador’s Minister of Defense, Mr. Gian Carlo Loffredo, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Korean Coast Guard in April 2024 for the transfer of the 3,000-ton patrol vessel BAE Jambelí, which is expected to arrive in Ecuador by August 2025.

Humanitarian cooperation has also been a highlight. The We LoveU Foundation generously donated 50 million KRW in 2024 to support Ecuadorian communities affected by devastating forest fires.

In the area of food safety, Ecuador’s delegation from AGROCALIDAD participated in a knowledge transfer program to learn from Korea’s advanced food safety management practices. This cooperation will continue with the upcoming visit of officials from Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, the Korea Agency of Accreditation, and HACCP services scheduled for August 2025.

 

Cultural and tourism ties have flourished as well. We successfully held the photographic exhibition “Colors of Ecuador: From Andes to Amazon”, the tourism promotion event “Wonders of Ecuador: A Travel Agency Showcase”, and the commercial promotion event “The taste of Exquisite Ecuador”. These efforts, combined with extensive media coverage have greatly increased awareness and appreciation of Ecuador’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Q: Please introduce the National Day (August 10, Independence Day) of your Excellency's wonderful country.

A: August 10 is a date of profound historical significance for Ecuador, celebrated as the Day of the Independence. On this day in 1809, the city of Quito witnessed one of the earliest uprisings against Spanish colonial rule in Latin America. This act marked the beginning of Ecuador’s long and determined struggle for independence and ignited the flame of liberty inspiring revolutionary movements throughout the continent.

 

For Ecuadorians, August 10 is a day of national pride and reflection. It is commemorated with various cultural events, patriotic ceremonies, and public celebrations that honor the bravery of the leaders and citizens who stood up for freedom. The day serves as a powerful reminder of Ecuador’s commitment to sovereignty, justice, and the values of democracy.

Q: What is the present volume of bilateral trade between Ecuador and South Korea? In Ecuador, what kinds of industrial sectors are attractive to Korean investors?

 

A: As of 2024, bilateral trade between Ecuador and South Korea continues to grow. According to data from the Central Bank of Ecuador, Ecuador exported approximately USD 142.7 million to South Korea, while imports from South Korea reached USD 516.5 million. Additionally, Korean investment in Ecuador is on the rise, with USD 11.2 million recorded in 2023.

Ecuador ranks as South Korea’s seventh-largest export destination in South America, with trade covering a broad spectrum of products including vehicles, food items, and cultural content. Ecuador's rich reserves of natural resources—such as copper, zinc, and silver—are particularly attractive to South Korea, which relies on critical raw materials for its industrial supply chains.

 

To further strengthen economic ties, both countries concluded negotiations on a Strategic Economic Cooperation Agreement (SECA) in October 2023. This agreement aims to eliminate tariffs on the majority of traded goods and enhance cooperation in services, intellectual property, and investment.

There is strong potential for Korean investment in Ecuador’s industrial and technological sectors. Ecuador offers favorable conditions for Korean companies to establish production facilities, particularly in industries such as manufacturing, agro-industry, and renewable energy. The country also has a competitive and high-quality non-oil export offering, including coffee, cacao, chocolate, snacks, and dairy products, all of which align well with the demands of the Korean market.

Furthermore, Korea’s leadership in advanced technology presents valuable opportunities for technological exchange and industrial modernization in Ecuador. This synergy could drive innovation and development across various sectors, positioning both countries for mutual economic benefit.

 

Q: What tourist attractions in Ecuador do you want to recommend to Korean tourists? Do you have any government programs to attract foreign tourists, including Koreans, to Ecuador?

A: Ecuador is truly a gem in the heart of South America and offers an incredible variety of attractions that appeal to all kinds of travelers. Whether you are drawn to tropical beaches, majestic mountains, rich rainforests, or unique islands, Ecuador has it all—often described as offering four worlds.

 

The coastal region is a tropical paradise with stunning beaches like Montañita, Salinas, and Los Frailes. Beyond its beautiful shores, visitors can experience charming fishing villages, enjoy exquisite seafood cuisine, and feel the warmth and hospitality of the local people.

In the Andean region, Ecuador boasts impressive volcanoes like Cotopaxi and Chimborazo that attract adventurers seeking new challenges. Quito, the capital city, is a fascinating blend of modern urban life and colonial architecture, with a historic center recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another must-visit is Cuenca, known for its colonial charm, artisanal traditions, and proximity to the stunning Cajas National Park.

 

The Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest is a sanctuary of biodiversity. Places like Yasuní National Park and the Cuyabeno Reserve offer unique experiences such as navigating winding rivers, observing exotic wildlife, and connecting with Indigenous communities that preserve their ancestral cultures.

Finally, the Galápagos Islands—famous as the place where Charles Darwin developed his theory of evolution are a natural sanctuary with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking volcanic landscapes. Home to over 9,000 species, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies, the Galápagos offer an unforgettable experience and remain one of the world’s most fascinating biodiversity hotspots.

 

We warmly invite Korean tourists to discover Ecuador’s incredible landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality—it’s a destination that truly offers something for everyone.

Q: Please tell me what was the most rewarding or happiest moment while you have been working as a diplomat.

A: The truth is that every diplomatic mission throughout my career has provided very pleasant moments: Germany was my first destination, and that's always something special, then came my time in New York, where I learned a lot. Later, I worked in Qatar, and it was my first contact with Asia; before arriving in Korea, I enjoyed the beauty of Rome, a true open-air museum.

 

Today, I'm really enjoying Korea, a beautiful country with a wealth of culture and an impressive level of technological development.

 

My family is equally happy to be here.

 

 

Q: Does the Embassy of Ecuador have any events planned for 2025, and if so, please elaborate.

A: In 2025, the Embassy has several planned events, including art exhibitions, as well as gastronomic, tourism, and cultural promotion activities featured in festivals such as the Latin American Festival and the Sinchon Youth Global Festival. We warmly invite the public to participate and stay informed by following our official Facebook page, where we share detailed dates and information for each event.

Additionally, the Embassy organizes commemorative ceremonies for important Ecuadorian national holidays, including the Battle of Pichincha in May and Independence Day on August 10. These events celebrate our rich history and strengthen cultural ties with the community here in Korea.