The Representation of Korea in New Zealand’s Society By Miro Ireson

 Written by Miro Ireson from New Zealand

Aotearoa New Zealand and the Republic of Korea have had in modern times, a strong bilateral relationship including trade, immigration and defence. Beginning with the involvement of NZ (New Zealand) in the Korean war, these diplomatic ties have only strengthened over time.

Christopher Luxon and Yoon Suk-Yeol met in 2024 to reaffirm our strong ties. Christopher Luxon (Prime Minister of NZ) said that the majority of New Zealand citizens would be aware of Korea for K-Pop. This statement shows the extent of Korean soft power and gives us a good basis for understanding further the portrayal of Korea in New Zealand.

I would argue that the current depiction of Korea by NZ's media is primarily focused on cultural elements, such as the aforementioned K-POP, Food and K-Drama television. Secondly, our military and economic ties have consistently been reported on positively.

New Zealand to this day takes part in multinational missions around the Korean Peninsula. For example, HMNZS Aotearoa (Pictured) recently took part in sanctions enforcement against the DPRK. Naval power projection remains a strong indicator of commitment.

Now, on the topic of the depiction within New Zealand itself?

To research this topic, the author attended the hallmark Korean cultural fair in New Zealand: https://overseas.mofa.go.kr/nz-en/brd/m_1756/view.do?seq=761047 

This cultural festival featured Korean and NZ diplomats, members of the Korean diaspora and members of the public. I was greatly impressed by the strong turnout of Koreans who were evidently exhilarated to be able to display their nation.

Vibrant displays of Hanbok and Traditional music drew a large turnout.

This festival shows that there is a general enthusiasm for Korean culture within the NZ populace. I am proud of my country's ability to have pride in migrant cultures, enriching our society and strengthening bilateral relationships.

Educationally, It is my opinion that Korea and global relations are underrepresented in the NCEA curriculum. However, the unique nature of NCEA assessments allows students that are passionate about these topics to undertake self-led endeavours in the subject. Additionally, there is the ability in extracurricular activities to learn about Korea and the world.

This year I wrote a paper on the topic of mass tourism in Jongno District, Seoul. I focused on Bukchon Hanok village and Gyeounbukdong as examples of responses to overtourism in areas. For this paper, I received an excellence endorsement. This topic showed me that both the government and grassroots causes can address this issue, showing me the steadfast attitude used in Korean society to respond to problems.

I consume educational content on Korea avidly. My two favorite examples of literature used as source materiel for New Zealand students are Indy Neidell's Korean War Series (youtube.com/@TheKoreanWarbyIndyNeidell) and KOREA: North and South by Victor D. Cha (Pictured) which I read for history class.

Extracurricular activities provide a much needed avenue for those interested in foreign affairs in NZ to learn. Debate surrounding mock resolutions takes place. I have found some of the most educated opinions and conversation at these events. For example, I was able to candidly speak with a doctoral research student on the topic of Russian armament of the DPRK and implications for the ROK, New Zealand and the greater community.

I hope this article has given you, the reader insight into New Zealand - Korean relations regardless of your knowledge on this subject. In conclusion, the Republic of Korea is portrayed positively in NZ society. It is recognised as a close ally and partner. Additionally, it is a bastion of media production and a trade lifeline. I hope that these relations can only grow between us.

If you have any questions regarding New Zealand, please feel free to leave a comment. I am responsive and enjoy both asking and responding to geographic questions.

I will finish with this photo of New Zealand soldiers fighting in Korea, and the grave of Robert James Unsworth. Robert was the only student at my school, Wellington high school to be killed. His name is engraved on a plaque that our students pass every day.

If any Korean Students in Busan would be willing to pay respects to Rob next time you are there, New Zealand would be grateful. I intend to someday pay my own. Thank you for reading this article.