THE ROLE OF HUMANITARIAN AID IN TURKEY-SOUTH KOREA RELATIONS: ANALYZING THE FEBRUARY 6 KAHRAMANMARAŞ EARTHQUAKES

Authors : Gülperi Küçükkaraca

Pages : 70-79

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Publication Date : 2024-08-21

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :The relationship between the Turkish and Korean nations, from the past to the present, has transcended mere emotional bonds. Both nations have provided support to each other not only on an emotional level but also at the diplomatic level during difficult and challenging times. In particular, the shared cultural characteristics, especially the embrace of the steppe culture, have brought these two nations closer. The aftermath of the Korean War, which began with the end of World War II, the establishment of the Republic of Korea, and the shifting power dynamics resulting from the dissolution of the Soviet Union towards the end of the 20th century, led to the emergence of Korea and Türkiye as two major power centers at the eastern and western ends of the Asian continent in the new international order. This situation has elevated the geopolitical significance of both countries. Looking back to earlier times, the harmony and cooperation among the Altaic tribes shifted with the emergence of the Tang Dynasty in China. The Tang Dynasty collaborated with the Silla Dynasty, disrupting the alliance between the Gokturks, Koguryo, and Baekje. This demonstrates the continued interaction between countries, with the Göktürks and Koreans being neighboring states. In contemporary times, the bonds between Türkiye and Korea have been strengthened through Türkiye\'s deployment of troops to the Korean War, and both nations refer to each other as \"brother countries\" and \"blood brothers.\" The Korean people have never forgotten our martyrs and veterans who fought in the Korean War, and both countries have supported each other in international arenas, development, cooperation, and diplomatic fields. In the face of the earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaraş on February 6 that occurred in the Türkiye, the Korean people and the Republic of Korea have not forgotten their brotherly country and have provided assistance. Furthermore, South Korean NGO’s have collaborated with NGO’s in the Republic of Türkiye, working together in the earthquake-affected areas. They continued their support by working with various institutions and organizations to alleviate the wounds caused by the earthquake. This study aims to examine the aid and support sent by the Korean people, the Republic of Korea, and Korean NGO’s living worldwide in response to the February 6 earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaraş.
Keywords : Kore, Türkiye, Kardeş ülke, Kore Savaşı, 6 Şubat Depremleri