By Choe Chong-dae

 

The seeds of Czech-Korean relations were first sown in March 1886 when Max Taubles, a correspondent for Harper’s Magazine, passed away in Seoul and was laid to rest at Jemulpo Foreigners’ Cemetery in Incheon after a brief battle with smallpox. Although his time in Korea lasted only a month and left no written record, Taubles became the first Westerner and foreign journalist to die in Korea after it opened its doors to the outside world. Notably, he was the first person from Bohemia (now the Czech Republic) to set foot in the country.

I’ve long been drawn to Czech culture, a beautiful country in the heart of Europe where diverse cultural influences have blended for centuries alongside a strong tradition of technological expertise. This connection deepened when I had the honor of meeting the wife of H.E. Milos Zeman, the Czech prime minister, who later became president (2013-2023), during his state visit to Seoul in 2001. On that occasion, I had the pleasure of contributing a congratulatory article titled “The Czech Spirit and the Prague Spring” in honor of the prime minister, published in this paper on March 14, 2001.

It is worth noting that Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) has recently secured a nuclear power project as the preferential bidder in the Czech Republic, marking a new era of collaboration. The project, centered on constructing reactors in Dukovany with potential expansion to Temelín, underscores Korea’s emergence as a global leader in nuclear energy and solidifies the Czech Republic’s role as a key partner in advanced technology.

This significant partnership is built on mutual respect for technical excellence and industrial heritage, allowing both countries to leverage their strengths for shared progress. KHNP, located on the outskirts of Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, reflects Korea’s fusion of rich history and technological ambition. I feel fortunate to witness KHNP’s success in securing this nuclear power project in the Czech Republic.

The Czech Republic’s reputation for industrial and technological prowess is long-standing. Known for its “golden hands” — a phrase highlighting the skill and precision of its workforce — the country has been a leader in innovation since the early 20th century. From pioneering the automotive industry to advancements in semiconductors, automotive testing and power generation, the Czech Republic has attracted global giants. Its ability to combine local excellence with global relevance makes it an essential player on the world stage.

On the other hand, Korea’s meteoric rise as a powerhouse of innovation is equally impressive. Excelling in bio, battery and chip technologies, Korea has dominated international skill-based competitions, including the Functional Olympics. Its global leadership in high-tech industries makes it a natural partner for the Czech Republic, which shares a dedication to technical perfection.

The recent Korea-Czech Business Forum in Prague, the largest of its kind in the EU, further highlights the growing economic ties between the two countries.

Leading companies such as Samsung, Hyundai Motor and LG collaborated with Czech firms to explore opportunities in eco-friendly transportation, robotics and energy.

The Czech Republic offers Korea a strategic location in the EU, combined with an impressive track record in technical achievement. The saying, “It works in the world as well as in the land of the golden hands,” reflects the Czech Republic’s expertise in sophisticated technologies. Paired with Korea’s innovation-driven economy, this partnership has become a formidable force for progress, particularly in nuclear energy and high-tech industries.

As their collaboration deepens, Korea and the Czech Republic are poised to lead global innovation. The golden hands of both nations, renowned for their technical precision, are shaping the high-tech industries of tomorrow. Like the worn, world-famous golden statue of Father Jan Nepomuk on Prague’s Charles Bridge, this partnership reflects a shared dedication to excellence and a prosperous future, symbolizing the strength of collaboration in advancing technological mastery.

Choe Chong-dae (choecd@naver.com) is a guest columnist of The Korea Times. He is president of Dae-kwang International Co., and founding director of the Korean-Swedish Association.