First Minister Nicola Sturgeon today attended the opening of the first Korean Honorary Consulate in the UK outside London.

Derek McCulloch, a partner in law firm Gillespie Macandrew, took an oath as he was appointed as Korea’s Honorary Consul by the Republic of Korea. His Excellency Sungnam Lim, UK Ambassador for the Republic of Korea, visited Edinburgh for this important occasion from his London Embassy.

Ambassador Lim stated:

“The opening of this Honorary Consulate is a testament to the flourishing relations between Scotland and Korea. The Honorary Consulate will be a stepping stone for our citizens to make further contributions to the valuable links between Korea and Scotland. It will be an ever present base for Scotland and Korea to strengthen engagement and it will build on the spirit of cooperation which led to the creation of the Honorary Consul.”

The First Minister commented:

“We are delighted that South Korea has become the latest country to appoint an Honorary Consul in Scotland. This reaffirms the strong links that exist between Scotland and South Korea in business, education and culture. I look forward to these connections strengthening over the coming years and I extend the warmest of welcomes to Derek McCulloch in his new role.”

Korean Honorary Consul Derek McCulloch added:

“I am honoured to accept this appointment and will ensure I do all that I can to maintain and encourage good links between South Korea and Scotland. In particular, I hope there will be further business growth between the two countries and I will certainly be willing to engage with any Korean or Scottish business interested in trading or investing in either country.”

The Korean Honorary Consulate will be based at the offices of Gillespie Macandrew, 5 Atholl Crescent, Edinburgh.