The Mexican Embassy in Seoul, in collaboration with Mexican company Grupo Promax, opened the Mexican Garden inside the Suncheon Bay National Garden in South Jeolla Province.

The garden covering an area of 900 square meters symbolizes the convergence of ancient and modern Mexican civilizations in vibrant colors. Rows of dahlias, Mexico’s national flower, palm trees and other national plants decorate the site atop a grass-covered stone structure, the embodiment of the Mayan Kukulkan pyramid. Colorful walls represent Mexican architect Luis Barragan’s aesthetic style.

The initiative received support from the Suncheon City Government, the Latin American Center and Museum in Goyang and Sunchon National University’s School of Architecture -- the designer and project manager of the garden -- as well as Posco and Sejung Group. 

At the opening ceremony on Thursday, Mexican Ambassador to Korea Bruno Figueroa expressed his gratitude to all institutions and stakeholders involved in the venue’s creation. The idea came during his earlier visit to the Suncheon National Garden, where he envisioned creating a space dedicated to Mexico’s cultural heritage and flora, according to the diplomatic mission.

Suncheon Mayor Cho Chung-hun shared his satisfaction on behalf of the municipal government, saying the space would promote Mexican traditions, culture and art among the local community and become a bridge between Mexicans and Koreans.

Foreign ambassadors and diplomats, local politicians, entrepreneurs and Mexicans in Korea participated in the inaugural ceremony.

The Suncheon National Garden features thematic sections dedicated to the national gardens of Mexico, China, Thailand, the United States, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Spain, Japan, France and South Korea.

By Joel Lee (joel@heraldcorp.com)