A groundbreaking ceremony for the ASEAN-Republic of Korea Garden in Vientiane.

Korea gives boost to conservation with funding for ASEAN-ROK garden

The Republic of Korea has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Laos’ development with the launch of a new venture valued at more than US$1 million, aimed at promoting environmental conservation, research and ecotourism in Vientiane.
A groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of creation of the ASEAN-Republic of Korea Garden in Laos was attended by Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Dr Xaynakhone Inthavong and the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Laos, Mr Jung Yung Soo.
The initiative highlights the importance both sides attach to strengthening their partnership in agriculture, forestry, and the environment.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Director General of the Department of Forestry under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, Dr Thoumthone Vongvisouk, said the garden will serve as a centre for forestry science research, a venue for cultural exchange, and a tourist attraction in the Vientiane area.
The garden will help raise public awareness of the need for environmental protection while contributing to tourism development, he added.
The garden will be created on two hectares of land and is scheduled for completion within one year.
The ASEAN-Republic of Korea Garden is part of broader and steadily expanding cooperation between Laos and Korea, particularly in areas linked to sustainable development, governance, and rural transformation.
In recent years, Korea has supported Laos through a range of development initiatives.
These include the introduction of a Land Price Information System to modernise land administration and improve transparency, as well as a US$12.5 million rural development cooperation project aimed at enhancing livelihoods and agricultural services in several provinces.
Such initiatives have delivered tangible benefits to communities while strengthening institutional capacity and supporting long-term development goals.
The planned garden is expected to build on these achievements by creating a multifunctional space that integrates research, culture, and ecotourism.
It also reflects Korea’s continued role as a key development partner of Laos, as both countries work to deepen their cooperation and advance shared priorities in sustainable and inclusive growth.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update May 5, 2026)