The Institute for Russian Studies (Director: Sang-Yong Pyo) hosted an international academic conference under the theme “140 Years of the Korea–Russia Treaty of Amity and Commerce: History of Exchanges and New Challenges.”

In his welcoming remarks, Director Pyo emphasized that the event represents “a meaningful example of public diplomacy between Korea and Russia” and stressed the need for more frequent academic exchanges between the two countries. In a congratulatory address, HUFS Vice President Chun-Sik Kim stated that “with mutual dedication, Korea and Russia can overcome current challenges and continue to advance bilateral cooperation for the next 140 years.”

Russian Ambassador to Korea Georgy Zinoviev highlighted in his congratulatory remarks that “since the signing of the 1884 Treaty of Amity and Commerce, Russia has played a neutral and constructive role on the Korean Peninsula.” He noted that Japan’s colonial rule later propagated negative perceptions of Russia, adding that such “Russophobic” perspectives have been reassessed objectively as Korean historians gained access to Russian archival materials following the 1990 establishment of diplomatic relations. The ambassador also expressed hope that “next year’s 80th anniversary of Russia’s Victory Day will prompt rigorous and objective academic discussions, especially given its historical linkage to Korea’s liberation.”

During the panel discussions, Oksana Dudnik, Consul General of the Russian Federation, presented on the history of Russian diplomatic missions in Korea, particularly the relocation of the Russian Imperial Vice-Consulate from Masan to Busan in the early 20th century. Archbishop Feofan Kim of the Russian Orthodox Church delivered a presentation on the history of Orthodox missionary activity on the Korean Peninsula.

The conference featured three major sessions:

Session 1: History and Contemporary Significance of the 1884 Treaty

Session 2: Traces of Russian Culture in Korea

Roundtable 3: Thirty Years of Korea–Russia Diplomatic Relations: History and Challenges

The event provided valuable insights into the historical context of Korea–Russia relations and underscored the importance of academic exchange as a form of public diplomacy. It served as a meaningful opportunity to further expand scholarly cooperation between the two countries.