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Korea Times Project, part 3a: Reporting from Cuba

August 13, 2015

In partnership with Bright Future Foundation to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Korean independence

The Korea Times' Kim Sang-mok -- the first reporter from a Korean American publication to visit the isolated country since the reopening of its doors in May -- in front of the soon-to-be-opened U.S. Embassy.

The Korea Times’ Kim Sang-mok — the first reporter from a Korean American publication to visit the isolated country since the reopening of its doors in May — in front of the soon-to-be-opened U.S. Embassy.

By Kim Sang-mok

HAVANA, CUBA — For the first time in 54 years, the U.S. Embassy in Havana, Cuba, will open Friday at the hands of Secretary of State John Kerry.

The Embassy, housed in a seven-story building in Downtown Havana, will soon see the meeting of Kerry and Cuban Minister of Foreign Affairs Bruno Rodriguez in the two countries’ first restoration of diplomatic relationship since 1961.

“All citizens welcome better diplomatic ties with America,” said Havana resident Roberto Paneki, 45, whose son is currently studying abroad in the United States. “But Cubans do not long to have an Americanized lifestyle. There are some people who want to immigrate to America, but I’m happy living in my home country.”

Seo Jong-chun, 59, was visiting the country for leisure from South Korea.

“Even coming out of the airport, I could feel that I was in a socialist country, but the expressions on the faces of Havana residents are bright,” Seo said. “Cuba has improved on its relations with the U.S. I hope North Korea learns from Cuba’s attitude.”