Seoul to seek improved ties with Cuba

South Korea plans to make efforts to normalize its diplomatic relations with Cuba in a bid to expand the scope of its diplomacy with countries in Central and South America, the foreign ministry said Wednesday.
Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se told lawmakers that Seoul will seek to improve its relations with Cuba this year as it moves to promote ties with countries in Central and South America in a mutually beneficial manner, Yonhap News Agency reported.
South Korea has no diplomatic relations with Cuba, while North Korea has maintained ties with Havana since 1960.
It marked the first time that Yun has publicly mentioned Seoul's efforts to make ties with Cuba.
His remarks came as the United States and Cuba made a surprise announcement in December to restore their diplomatic ties.