The Singaporean Embassy celebrated its National Day while reflecting on its growing diplomatic relations with Korea, in Seoul on Tuesday.

The event marked the country’s 47th anniversary of independence from Malaysia and the 37th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Korea.

“I am pleased to say that Singapore’s bilateral relations with the Republic of Korea are excellent, anchored by the many high-level visits from both sides,” said Singaporean Ambassador Peter Tan.

In March, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong came to Seoul for the Seoul Nuclear Security Summit, while Defense Minister Kim Kwan-jin traveled to Singapore in June to take part in the Shangri-La Dialogue.

Other high-level visits from Singapore include Law Shanmugam, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister of Environment and Water Resources.

“In the economic arena, let me say that Korean businesses in Singapore are important and significant,” said Tan.

Bilateral trade between Korea and one of the most prosperous countries in the world stood at $16.1 billion in the first half of 2012 with a $6.4 billion surplus for Korea. The trade numbers saw a 320 percent increase over the past decade from $7 billion in 2001 to $29.8 billion in 2011.

Trade between Korea and the city-state was not limited to economics, as cultural trade has made a strong presence in both countries, added Tan.

“The influence of Korean culture is highly evident in Singapore with Korean pop culture, drama and food finding their way into our everyday life,” said the ambassador, noting the 23,000-strong Korean community in Singapore.

Tan also addressed the efforts of the Singaporean community in Korea, and that the “small but active” group has been a driving force in bringing Singaporean companies to Korea.

“I hope to see a further enhancement and broadening of the bilateral relationship between our two countries,” said Tan.

By Robert Lee (robert@heraldcorp.com)