Cuba reduces diplomatic staff at embassy in South Korea

Cuba has reduced its diplomatic presence in Seoul by half, with two of its four diplomats returning to Havana. According to reports from the Seoul Economic Daily citing South Korean foreign ministry sources, the departure was not a routine rotation but a direct decision from Havana.

The Cuban Embassy in Seoul responded to speculation by stating that the move is an internal administrative decision and has “no political significance nor connection with bilateral relations.” The remaining staff in Seoul include Ambassador Claudio Monzón and Counselor Patricia Flechilla Prometa.

This reduction follows the relatively recent establishment of diplomatic ties between the two nations in February 2024. The opening of the embassy in June 2025 was seen as a significant step in South Korea’s efforts to expand its diplomatic influence among traditional allies of North Korea.