Reopening of the Swiss diplomatic office in Pyongyang
By reopening its office in Pyongyang, which has been operational since 19 October 2026, the FDFA is re-establishing a permanent diplomatic representation in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). The office will help strengthen direct contacts with the DPRK authorities and promote political dialogue. It is subordinate to the Embassy of Switzerland in Beijing, which remains responsible for diplomatic and consular relations with the DPRK.
On the occasion of the official opening of the office on 30 October 2026, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will hold political talks with the North Korean authorities. Discussions will also cover the resumption of bilateral consultations between the FDFA and the DPRK’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the security situation on the peninsula and geopolitics.
Longstanding engagement on the Korean peninsula
Since 1953, Switzerland has contributed to promoting peace and stability on the Korean peninsula through its participation in the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission, which is stationed along 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 growing tensions and limited international contacts, Switzerland intends to continue its engagement in the region. Its presence in Pyongyang is intended to contribute to direct dialogue, including on contentious issues.
Onward travel to South Korea
On 30 and 31 October 2026, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will meet representatives of the authorities of the Republic of Korea in Seoul. The talks will focus on the security situation on the Korean peninsula and prospects for easing regional tensions. The visit will also provide an opportunity to discuss bilateral relations between Switzerland and South Korea.
Source and AI disclosure
Title, lead and article text in the German version: reproduced verbatim from the press release «Bundesrat Ignazio Cassis reist nach Nordkorea und Südkorea» issued by the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), published on 26 October 2026. This version is an automatic translation of that German version. Announcements, objectives and assessments in the reproduced text originate from the FDFA. Source: https://www.admin.ch/de/newnsb/W3YVarDbV0p5. AI-assisted structuring and source attribution; no generative shortening of the main version.