Kyrgyz Ambassador to Korea Aida Ismailova highlighted Kyrgyzstan's appeal as a tourist destination at a book launch for "Why Kyrgyzstan?" on Tuesday.

Authored by Korean writer Cho Yong-pil, the book delves into life lessons learned from the country, highlighting the importance of living in the present rather than waiting to explore a new life after retirement.

“Kyrgyzstan is a country blessed with magnificent mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes, rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality,” Ismailova said in her remarks at the event.

“Although it is not yet widely known among Koreans, those who have visited even once are left deeply impressed by Kyrgyz beauty and uniqueness,” she said.

The book is more than a travel guide showcasing Kyrgyzstan’s history and culture, according to Ismailova.

“This book serves as a bridge of friendship between Korea and Kyrgyzstan, introducing Kyrgyzstan to readers while showcasing its soul and traditions," she said, noting the book as a valuable resource for tourism, cooperation and cultural exchange.

According to Ismailova, Central Asian nations are collaborating to introduce the region as a unified travel destination with diverse cultures and landscapes to Korean tourists.

“For thousands of years, the Kyrgyz people have sustained internal unity while valuing harmony with other ethnic groups,” she recalled.

Lee Jong-kook, executive director of the Secretariat of the Republic of Korea-Central Asia Cooperation Forum, also highlighted the book’s role amid evolving Kyrgyz-Korean ties since 1992.

The forum, launched in 2007 as a Korean initiative, serves as a dialogue platform to bolster cooperation in economic, cultural and other areas, enhance ties between Central Asian countries and Korea and promote regional cooperation.

“The president of Kyrgyzstan recently made a state visit to South Korea, during which both nations agreed to elevate bilateral relations and strengthen cooperation across various fields,“ said Lee.

“In December 2024, South Korea and Kyrgyzstan upgraded their relationship to a comprehensive partnership, marking a new milestone in bilateral ties,” Lee added.

He said that in 2023 a direct flight route between South Korea and Kyrgyzstan was established, and in 2024 it officially began operations.

“The opening of the direct flight route has greatly facilitated people-to-people exchanges,” Lee stressed.

The event was attended by Tajik Ambassador to Korea Salohiddin Kirom, embassy representatives from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan, Kyrgyz community members, travel writers, students, scholars, nongovernmental organizations and the media.