SEOUL - A series of pivotal moments have shaped Korea's history, from tragic massacres to diplomatic milestones and cultural achievements. Among these, over 700 villagers were killed by Army soldiers in Geochang, South Gyeongsang Province, due to suspicions of collusion with North Korean guerrillas. In 1992, South Korea and Ukraine established diplomatic relations, marking a step toward expanding Korea's global partnerships. The narrative of North Korea's international relations saw a notable moment in 2005, as it declared a boycott of six-way talks on its nuclear program, demanding an end to the United States' "hostile" policy.
According to Yonhap News Agency, The fabric of Seoul's cultural heritage was altered in 2008 when a fire, set by a 70-year-old man, devastated Namdaemun, a historic gate and South Korea's No. 1 national treasure. In response to North Korean provocations, South Korea shuttered the Kaesong Industrial Complex in 2016, a significant economic collaboration project between the two Koreas. A rare diplomatic engagement occurred in 2018, as President Moon Jae-in met with high-ranking North Korean officials during the PyeongChang Winter Olympic Games, leading to proposals for an inter-Korean summit.
Further strengthening its defense posture, South Korea, in 2019, inked a defense cost-sharing deal with the United States, agreeing to an 8.2 percent increase in contributions to maintain U.S. troops on its soil. The global recognition of South Korean culture was underscored in 2020, when "Parasite," directed by Bong Joon-ho, clinched four Oscars, including best picture, becoming the first non-English language film to receive the award and marking a historic achievement for the nation's film industry.