Korea and Latvia Sign Working Holiday Agreement

Seoul, South Korea – In a significant step towards enhancing cultural exchange and providing opportunities for youth, Korea and Latvia have signed a Working Holiday Agreement, enabling young people from both countries to experience each other's cultures through travel, work, and study. The signing ceremony took place on July 31, 2024, with South Korea's Ambassador to Latvia, Lee Tong-q, and Latvia's Minister of Interior, Rihards Kozlovskis, officiating the event.

The newly signed agreement allows up to 100 young people aged 18 to 34 from each country to participate annually. Participants can stay in the host country for up to 12 months, with opportunities for short-term employment and language study while experiencing the local culture and lifestyle.

The official name of the agreement is the "Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Korea and the Government of the Republic of Latvia concerning a Working Holiday Programme." This partnership will come into effect 90 days after both nations complete the necessary domestic requirements and notify each other through diplomatic channels.

Latvia, located at the crossroads of Northern, Western, and Eastern Europe, serves as a strategic trade hub and a gateway to the Baltic Sea. It has a growing reputation for innovation and information technology, presenting significant collaboration opportunities with Korea. This agreement aims to strengthen the friendly relations between the two countries and promote future exchanges among younger generations.

With this new agreement, South Korea has now established working holiday arrangements with 27 countries and regions worldwide. The Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to pursue similar agreements to broaden overseas opportunities for young Koreans, catering to the interests and aspirations of the nation's youth.

The Korean government views these agreements as vital to fostering global understanding and providing young people with enriching experiences abroad, contributing to their personal and professional development.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ambassador Lee highlighted the importance of the agreement: "This is a valuable opportunity for young Koreans and Latvians to explore each other's cultures and enhance mutual understanding. We believe that such exchanges will lay a strong foundation for long-lasting friendships and cooperation between our two countries."

Minister Rihards Kozlovskis echoed this sentiment, stating: "Latvia is eager to welcome Korean youth and share our rich cultural heritage with them. This agreement will undoubtedly strengthen the ties between Latvia and Korea, fostering a deeper connection between our peoples."