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Korea Herald
03-07-2025
- Politics
- Korea Herald
[Lee Byung-jong] Singapore epitomizes soft power
The late Harvard professor Joseph Nye famously coined the term "soft power" to describe a nation's ability to influence others through attraction rather than coercion. As he put it, soft power is based on 'power with' rather than 'power over' — the capacity to build partnerships and coalitions, enhancing a country's global standing beyond its military or economic might. Few nations exemplify this idea as clearly as Singapore. From its humble beginnings as a small fishing village and trading post, Singapore has transformed into a global economic powerhouse. This city-state of just 6 million people has repeatedly punched above its weight, demonstrating an outsized influence in regional and global affairs. A large part of its success comes not just from economic performance but from its ability to connect, convene and cooperate — a hallmark of soft power. This diplomatic agility was on full display during Singapore's recent celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations with South Korea. Held at a hotel in Seoul, the ceremony was thoughtfully organized by the Singaporean Embassy and featured a blend of official speeches, cultural performances and colorful festivities. What stood out most, however, was the palpable sincerity and respect for partnership. Ambassador Eric Teo, in his heartfelt remarks, praised the 'deep and harmonious connection' between the two countries across sectors including trade, technology, tourism, education and culture. The event itself was a showcase of this connection. A girl group led by a Singaporean musician performed popular K-pop songs, bridging cultures through music. University students from Gyeonggi Province — part of a youth exchange partnership — sang the national anthems of both nations. An emblem celebrating the 50th anniversary was designed through a joint youth contest. Even the welcoming reception featured one Korean and one Singaporean model standing together in a symbolic gesture of equality and unity. One former Korean trade minister in attendance remarked that the event perfectly captured Singapore's 'convening power' — the very essence of its soft power. Indeed, Singapore's strength lies in this ability to bring people together. Its strategic networking and coalition-building have made it a hub not only for business but also diplomacy and culture. The city-state is home to the Asia-Pacific headquarters of over 5,000 multinational corporations spanning manufacturing, finance and logistics. Its world-class infrastructure, political stability and efficient governance make it an ideal base of operations in the region. These advantages have helped Singapore reach a per capita income of nearly $93,000 — almost three times that of South Korea. But Singapore's convening power extends beyond commerce. In 2018, it hosted the historic summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. That the two leaders — once adversaries during the Korean War — chose Singapore as neutral ground speaks volumes about the nation's credibility, trustworthiness and diplomatic finesse. Critics, however, sometimes downplay Singapore's accomplishments, attributing its success to factors like its small size or tightly controlled political system. With a population of just over 6 million and a one-party dominant regime, some argue that governing Singapore is easier than running larger, more complex democracies. The country's strict laws and limited political freedoms, they say, compromise the democratic values that often accompany soft power. Yet such views risk oversimplification. Singapore's size has often been more of a challenge than an advantage. Lacking natural resources, the country has had to rely almost entirely on human capital. From the outset in 1965, Singapore's leaders prioritized education, infrastructure and long-term planning. This commitment has enabled it to thrive in a highly competitive global environment. As Ambassador Teo emphasized, both Singapore and South Korea began with similar constraints: No resources, small landmass and tough geopolitical neighborhoods. 'From the start, our two countries were natural partners,' he said. 'Our success was not guaranteed.' While both nations have walked parallel development paths, Singapore seems to be ahead in certain areas — particularly in nurturing human capital. The city-state's education system is consistently ranked among the best in the world. It attracts top students and scholars globally, and it shows. As someone who teaches at a university with many foreign students, I've consistently been impressed by the intellectual sharpness and curiosity of those from Singapore. Singapore's soft power is also deeply rooted in its pragmatism. The country blends a free-market capitalist system with a communitarian political philosophy heavily influenced by Confucian values. With ethnic Chinese comprising the majority of its population, Singapore maintains close cultural and economic ties with China. Yet, it simultaneously upholds and participates in the liberal international order championed by the United States. This dual engagement positions Singapore as a vital bridge between East and West — another dimension of its convening power. Perhaps the best representation of Singapore's soft power in Korea is Ambassador Teo himself. Often affectionately called 'Korea's son-in-law' due to his marriage to a Korean-Singaporean, he has spent the past six years building bridges between the two countries — not just in policy, but in people-to-people ties. He has traveled extensively throughout Korea, hosted numerous cultural events, and deepened bilateral understanding. Earlier this year, the embassy he led organized a food festival featuring 50 Singaporean dishes to commemorate the 50-year diplomatic milestone. The recent anniversary event was his final official function in Seoul. As he concluded his remarks, reflecting on a 'wonderful and enriching six years,' his voice cracked slightly with emotion, as if holding back tears. In that brief, human moment, he embodied the very heart of Singapore's soft power — genuine connection, respect and partnership. In a world increasingly fragmented by power politics and ideological divides, Singapore offers a compelling case for how small states can play big roles. Through connection, credibility and a commitment to cooperation, it continues to wield influence far beyond what its size might suggest. That is the essence of soft power — and Singapore's enduring gift to the world.
Yahoo
02-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Empyrion Digital celebrates grand opening of KR1 Gangnam Data Centre
SEOUL, South Korea and SINGAPORE, July 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Empyrion Digital, a leading digital infrastructure platform in Asia, today announced the grand opening of its KR1 Gangnam Data Centre (KR1 GDC), a 29.4MW IT load facility located in the heart of Gangnam, Seoul's technology and innovation district. The ceremony was attended by H.E. Eric Teo, Ambassador of the Republic of Singapore to the Republic of Korea; Youngjun Jung, Vice Mayor of Seocho-gu Office, and other key business leaders in South Korea. The KR1 GDC launch marks a significant milestone for Empyrion as its second operational asset in Asia, following the successful acquisition of SG1 Dodid in Singapore in 2021. Situated at 224 Yangjae-dong in Seocho-gu, KR1 GDC spans 30,714 square metres and marks the first new data centre development in Seoul's Gangnam district in over 10 years. Strategically located near leading technology firms and Fortune 500 headquarters, the facility provides diverse connectivity and is purpose-built to support hyperscaler and enterprise customers requiring low latency and high-density infrastructure for AI and cloud computing needs. Leveraging advanced cooling technologies and green by design principles, KR1 GDC is designed to maximise energy and water usage efficiencies and contribute to environmental sustainability. "KR1 GDC is launched at a time when demand for high-quality, power-secured facilities in the Seoul metropolitan area far exceeds supply," said Mark Fong, CEO of Empyrion Digital. "With South Korea advancing its goal to become a global AI powerhouse, KR1 GDC reflects Empyrion Digital's foresight and execution in addressing this infrastructure gap. We are confident that KR1 GDC will serve the needs of South Korea and deliver long-term value for our customers and partners across Asia." H.E. Eric Teo, Ambassador of the Republic of Singapore to the Republic of Korea said: "The launch of the GDC comes at a time when Korea is growing its ambitions in AI and digital technology under the new Lee Jae-myung government. The GDC is well positioned to support the growing infrastructure demands of Korea's AI economy and contribute to building a robust and resilience data centre ecosystem. The GDC opening represents a celebration of shared vision, close collaboration and the strengthening digital partnership between our two like-minded countries". H.E. Hong Jin-wook, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Singapore said: "I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Seraya Partners and Empyrion Digital on the opening of the Gangnam Data Centre today. Data centres are critical infrastructure that directly support the business activities and the everyday lives of our citizens. I would also like to congratulate the Seocho-gu office and its residents on attracting this important facility." James Chern, Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer of Seraya Partners said: "The opening of Empyrion Digital's Gangnam Data Centre is a strong affirmation of Seraya's strategy to build and scale next-generation digital infrastructure across Asia. The unwavering support of our global investors has been instrumental in bringing this project to life. Their continued confidence reinforces our belief that platforms built for AI, sustainability, and regional connectivity will define the future of infrastructure investing." About Empyrion Digital Empyrion Digital is a next-generation digital infrastructure platform committed to sustainability and the highest standards of responsible operating performance. Green by design, we develop and operate robust, scalable and carrier-neutral data centres for hyperscale and enterprise customers across Asia. Headquartered in Singapore, Empyrion Digital is a portfolio company of Seraya Partners, a leading Asia infrastructure fund with USD 1.8 billion of assets under management. For more information, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Empyrion Digital
CNA
05-05-2025
- Business
- CNA
From food to culture: South Korea hosts activities to mark 50 years of diplomatic ties with Singapore
SEOUL: As Singapore and South Korea mark 50 years of diplomatic ties this year, the two countries are looking to upgrade their free trade agreement and widen cooperation in areas such as education, defence and cybersecurity. To celebrate the occasion, a slew of activities – from food to the arts – are also being lined up to bring a slice of Singapore to Seoul. Last month, for instance, South Koreans were treated to a performance by Singapore contemporary dance group T.H.E Dance Company at the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts in Seoul. The event was put together to deepen cultural understanding between both sides, which established diplomatic ties in August 1975. UPGRADING RELATIONS Singapore's Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Eric Teo said the two countries have treaded a similar path without any natural resources, relying only on their people to attain success. 'We not only rank among each other's top 10 trading and investment partners, we also collaborate closely in new and emerging areas such as digital economy, artificial intelligence and startups, energy, sustainability and many other areas,' he added. 'We are looking forward to upgrading our relations to a strategic partnership this year, during the 50th anniversary." South Korea's National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik also praised the close bilateral ties, saying he plans to travel to Singapore this year. In February, his Singaporean counterpart, Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng, visited Seoul and met with Mr Woo. Both sides exchanged views about the common challenges on global developments and ways to boost inter-parliamentary ties. "High-level exchanges are extremely important. In that sense, following the speaker's visit to Korea, my visit to Singapore and the participation of our leaders in APEC, I believe we can achieve not only progress in a single area, but development across many fields,' said Mr Woo, referring to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum to be hosted in South Korea this year. Former South Korean Foreign Minister Yu Myung-hwan said he believes the relations between Singapore and South Korea will be further strengthened. "Singapore is a gateway for the Korean government as well as the Korean business circle to Southeast Asian countries,' he added. 'ASEAN is very important for Korea. So I think it's inevitable that Korea and Singapore have to cooperate with each other to strengthen our participation in Southeast Asian countries." LOVE FOR FOOD Also last month, the Singapore Embassy in Seoul hosted a food carnival to celebrate the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations. Ambassadors and current and former lawmakers attended the event to sample 50 Singaporean dishes including chilli crab, laksa and kaya toast. Ambassador Teo said Singaporeans and Koreans share a love for food, 'with cuisine woven into the fabric of our daily life'. More Singaporeans have also set up food and beverage businesses in South Korea. Singaporean Joel Lim started his restaurant in the South Korean capital about five years ago, naming it One Degree North, after Singapore's geographic coordinates. Business was tough in the early days, when Mr Lim first moved there in 2019 after marrying a South Korean. One Degree North started out as a delivery-only Asian roast joint during the COVID-19 pandemic. These days, the eatery fills up fast at peak hours with patrons hungry for a taste of Singapore's hawker food like chicken rice. The restaurant owner told CNA he takes pride in having introduced Singaporean cuisine to South Koreans. 'Especially during COVID when we started, I felt like we kind of bridged the gap and allowed Koreans to have a little mini-vacation (by) coming here to try the food,' he added.
