Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis to visit the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and the Republic of Korea
Bern, 26.10.2026 — The head of the FDFA, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, will visit the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the Republic of Korea from 29 to 31 October 2026. From 29 to 30 October, Mr Cassis will be in attendance for the official reopening of the Swiss diplomatic office in Pyongyang and will hold political talks with the authorities of the DPRK. He will then travel to Seoul, where he will meet with representatives of the Republic of Korea's authorities. This visit forms part of Switzerland's long-standing commitment to peace on the Korean peninsula.
Reopening of the Swiss diplomatic office in Pyongyang
The FDFA is re-establishing a permanent diplomatic presence in the DPRK with the reopening of its office in Pyongyang, which has been operational since 19 October 2026. This office will help to strengthen direct contacts with the authorities of the DPRK and support political dialogue with them. The office reports to the Swiss embassy in Beijing, which remains responsible for diplomatic and consular relations with the DPRK.
To mark the official opening of the office on 30 October, Mr Cassis will hold political talks with the DPRK authorities. The discussions will focus, in particular, on the resumption of bilateral consultations between the FDFA and the DPRK Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the security situation on the peninsula and global geopolitics.
Switzerland's long-standing commitment on the Korean peninsula
Since 1953, Switzerland has contributed to peace and stability on the Korean peninsula through its participation in the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission, which is stationed on the military demarcation line between the two Koreas, and through its good offices. It is also one of the few Western countries to have maintained a political dialogue with the DPRK since 2003.
Against a backdrop of heightened tensions and limited international contacts, Switzerland intends to continue its commitment in the region. Through its presence in Pyongyang, it aims to maintain direct dialogue, including on matters of disagreement.
The visit continues in South Korea
On 30 and 31 October, Mr Cassis will be in Seoul, where he will meet with representatives of the Republic of Korea's authorities. Discussions will focus on the security situation on the Korean peninsula and the prospects for easing regional tensions. This visit will also provide an opportunity to discuss bilateral relations with South Korea.