AKP Phnom Penh, June 13, 2025 -- 

South Korea is seeking a greater number of Cambodian workers to fill labour shortages in its agricultural sector, according to the Governor of Jeollanam-do province, H.E. Kim Yung-rok.

The remarks were made during a courtesy meeting between H.E. Kim Yung-rok and the Governor of Phnom Penh, H.E. Khuong Sreng, held on June 12 afternoon, at Phnom Penh Municipal Hall. 

The visit aimed to strengthen the friendship and cooperation between Jeollanam-do and the Phnom Penh Municipal Administration.

Governor Khuong Sreng emphasised that Phnom Penh has seen significant progress and development under the visionary leadership of Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia. The capital’s development has earned national and international praise, especially considering the country’s recovery following the Khmer Rouge genocide.

“Jeollanam-do province is eager to establish a sister-city relationship with Phnom Penh. I will seek approval from the Royal Government to begin preparing the necessary documents to formalise cooperation between our two cities,” said Governor Khuong Sreng. He added that this initiative would build on existing partnerships with three other South Korean cities and further enhance bilateral friendship and collaboration.

He also expressed his gratitude to the people and government of South Korea for providing employment opportunities to more than 46,000 Cambodian workers in recent years. 

Additionally, he extended his congratulations to H.E. Lee Jae-myung on his recent election as President of the Republic of Korea and voiced hope that Governor Kim Yung-rok’s visit would inspire more Korean businesses and investors to explore opportunities in Cambodia, especially given the country’s investor-friendly legal framework.

Governor Kim Yung-rok acknowledged the rapid development of Phnom Penh, stating, “Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, Phnom Penh has achieved remarkable progress in a short time. Compared to my previous visit, the transformation is truly impressive.”

By K. Rithy Reak