South Korea and Kazakhstan elevate their relationship to a future-oriented comprehensive strategic partnership, expanding cooperation in energy, industry, technology, infrastructure, critical resources, renewable energy and labour mobility.
South Korea and Kazakhstan are elevating their bilateral relationship to a future-oriented comprehensive strategic partnership, opening a new phase of cooperation in energy, industry, technology, infrastructure and other strategic sectors. The upgrade comes as Seoul seeks to strengthen economic security and deepen engagement with Central Asia.
The decision is announced during a bilateral summit between South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Seoul. The meeting takes place ahead of the first Korea-Central Asia Summit, bringing additional significance to the strengthening of ties between the two countries.
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South Korea and Kazakhstan sign 13 agreements and memorandums of understanding covering a broad range of areas. These include cooperation on oil, atomic energy, science and technology skills development, labour mobility under Korea’s Employment Permit System, intellectual property, urban development, infrastructure and advanced air mobility.
Renewable energy and digital forest restoration are also included in the new agreements, reflecting the growing importance of sustainability and climate-related cooperation. The two sides additionally strengthen cultural cooperation and work together on preserving historical sites associated with Korea’s independence movement during the Japanese colonial period.
Energy and natural resources remain central to the expanding partnership. Kazakhstan possesses substantial energy and mineral resources, while South Korea has advanced manufacturing capabilities and technological expertise. President Lee describes Kazakhstan as an important partner for South Korea’s economic security and highlights opportunities to combine Kazakhstan’s resources with Korean technology and industrial capabilities.
Technology and advanced manufacturing are expected to become increasingly important areas of cooperation. South Korea aims to support Kazakhstan’s industrial development through cutting-edge manufacturing and digital technologies, while Kazakhstan offers opportunities for Korean companies seeking to expand their presence in Central Asia.
Economic engagement between the two countries has already grown considerably. Kazakhstan President Tokayev notes that South Korea has invested approximately $12 billion in Kazakhstan’s economy, with numerous Korean companies operating successfully in the country. Korean tourism to Kazakhstan is also expanding, with more than 51,000 Korean visitors recorded last year.
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The partnership upgrade also aligns with South Korea’s broader strategy of strengthening ties with Central Asia. Trade between South Korea and the five Central Asian countries exceeds $10 billion, while cooperation is increasingly moving beyond conventional commerce towards critical minerals, supply chains, artificial intelligence and other high-technology sectors.
The latest agreements therefore establish a broader foundation for long-term cooperation. By combining Kazakhstan’s resources and growing markets with South Korea’s technology, manufacturing expertise and investment capabilities, both countries seek to strengthen economic resilience and create new opportunities across strategic industries.