Korea Update, 2 July 2026
Posted by: Hannah Giles | Posted on: June 12th, 2026
Briefing with the British ambassadors to South and North Korea,
who will talk about their work, and current issues on the Peninsula
Thursday 2nd July 2026
6.30pm to 9.00pm
SOAS, University of London
SOAS University of London
Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square
London WC1H 0XG
Colin Crooks has been the British Ambassador to the Republic of Korea since 2022. He previously served as Ambassador to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea from 2018 to 2021. His previous diplomatic appointments include Minister Counsellor in Beijing (2015 to 2018), and Deputy Head of the EU Mission in Indonesia (2011 to 2015), Chargé d’Affaires, Pyongyang (2008), and First Secretary in Seoul (1995 to 1999).
Simon Wood has been the British Ambassador to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea since September 2025. He has previous diplomatic assignments include: HM Consul-General in Rio de Janeiro (2017 to 2021) Deputy Head of Mission, British Embassy Copenhagen (2010 to 2014) Head of Media and Communications, British Embassy Tokyo (2007 to 2010), and Head of the FCO’s Crisis Management Department (2014 to 2017).
After the presentations there will be a Question & Answer session and a reception with refreshments.
To reserve your place please sign up using our online booking form.
BKS Members and their Guests £10.00 per person
Please pay by bank transfer to:
Lloyds Bank
Account Name: British Korean Society
Account No: 32827868
Sort Code: 30-98-97
Reference: Full Name
