Washington: A commemorative plaque was installed at the consular section building of the South Korean Embassy in Washington on Monday to mark the historic building as the site of the Asian country's first-ever embassy. Under a Korea Heritage Service initiative, the plaque was attached to the building, which was established in 1949 to serve as South Korea's first embassy.

According to Yonhap News Agency, current South Korean Ambassador to the United States Kang Kyung-wha highlighted the significance of the site, calling it "a starting point for the Republic of Korea's diplomacy." Kang emphasized that the building now symbolizes the dedication, responsibilities, and sacrifices of numerous diplomats over the years.

The site hosted eight South Korean ambassadors, starting with Chang Myon, who served as the first Ambassador to the U.S. from 1949 to 1951, and Kim Dong-jo, the eighth ambassador, who served from 1967 to 1973. These diplomats were instrumental in pivotal diplomatic efforts, including securing international support for South Korea during the Korean War from 1950 to 1953.