South Korea and Germany upgrade their relationship to an Enhanced Strategic Partnership, expanding cooperation in defence, cybersecurity, automotive technology, batteries, industrial AI and robotics.
South Korea and Germany have agreed to upgrade their bilateral relationship to an Enhanced Strategic Partnership, strengthening cooperation in defence, security, trade and advanced technologies. The agreement was reached during a summit between South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Seoul.
In a joint statement released after the meeting, the two countries said they would intensify bilateral and multilateral cooperation to address emerging international risks. The upgraded partnership is expected to provide a broader framework for collaboration in security, industrial development, technological innovation and diplomatic engagement.
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Defence and security cooperation emerged as key priorities. Both governments agreed to strengthen regular military exchanges, training programmes and information sharing. They also committed to continuing security policy discussions between their defence ministries, with a focus on regional security developments and cooperation in the defence industry.
South Korea and Germany further reiterated their intention to conclude a bilateral agreement on protecting classified military information. The agreement would establish a framework for safeguarding sensitive information exchanged during defence cooperation and could support future collaboration on military technologies and industrial projects.
The countries also plan to expand dialogue on cyber security and the opportunities and risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI). Regular high-level consultations, including a strategic dialogue between their foreign ministers, are expected to strengthen coordination on international affairs and emerging security challenges.
Economic and technological cooperation will form another important pillar of the enhanced partnership. The two governments agreed to promote collaboration in trade, industry, innovation and future technologies, particularly in the automotive sector, batteries, industrial AI and robotics. They intend to sign relevant agreements to facilitate cooperation and strengthen the competitiveness of their industries.
Both sides highlighted the importance of combining their complementary industrial and technological capabilities to support sustainable transformation and maintain technological leadership. Germany’s industrial expertise and South Korea’s strengths in advanced manufacturing, electronics and batteries provide opportunities for collaboration in developing next-generation technologies and strengthening supply chains.
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The leaders also discussed issues concerning the Korean Peninsula, drawing on the shared historical experience of national division. They expressed support for continued dialogue through the Korea-Germany Advisory Committee and reaffirmed their commitment to stability, security and prosperity in their respective regions.
The joint statement further emphasised respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states. Both countries opposed coercion, destabilising actions and foreign interference, underscoring their commitment to international stability and cooperation.