British Ambassador to Korea Colin Crooks, center, gives a welcome speech during the Official Birthday of His Majesty King Charles III ceremony at the ambassador's residence in Seoul, Thursday. Korea Times photo by Kim Hyun-bin

British Ambassador to Korea Colin Crooks stressed the strengthening ties between Korea and the U.K. during an event to celebrate the birthday of King Charles III held in Seoul, Thursday.

The Official Birthday of His Majesty King Charles III event took place at the British ambassador's residence in central Seoul, bringing together ambassadors of various countries as well as government and company officials of the two nations.

"This evening to celebrate not only the official birthday of his majesty the king but also the vibrant friendship between the U.K. and Korea," Crooks said during his welcome speech.

Reflecting on the past year's diplomatic milestones, Crooks highlighted the significance of President Yoon Suk Yeol's state visit to the U.K. last year.

"President Yoon Suk Yeol paid an historic state visit to the U.K. last November at the invitation of King Charles. During the visit, the president and Prime Minister (Rishi) Sunak signed the Downing Street Accord. This marked the beginning of a new global strategic partnership," Crooks said.

In the accord, the leaders of the two nations agreed to elevate diplomatic relations to a global strategic partnership, so that the two countries can deepen cooperation across all fields.

The ambassador further emphasized the deepening bilateral collaboration, citing the recent AI Seoul Summit as a testament to their strong partnership.

"The U.K.'s co-hosting of this week's AI Seoul Summit is the latest example, and I was thrilled by the surprise appearance of our friends BLACKPINK at the palace to receive MBEs (Member of the Order of the British Empire) from the king in recognition of their contribution to the fight against climate change, another flourishing area of U.K.-Korea cooperation."

Crooks also highlighted the embassy's commitment to emphasize diversity and equality.

"This year, the embassy is placing particular emphasis on our role as a champion of diversity and equality. We believe in the power of inclusivity to unlock the potential of everyone in the U.K. and Korea — of women, ethnic and religious minorities, the LGBT community and of those with disabilities."

Concluding his speech, Crooks raised a toast to the enduring friendship between the two nations, saying, "I would like to raise a toast to U.K.-Korea friendship and to his excellency President Yoon. Cheers!"