India, South Korea Reaffirm Special Strategic Partnership

India and South Korea have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening their Special Strategic Partnership, signalling sustained diplomatic momentum ahead of 2026. The pledge was made during the 6th Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue (FPSD) held in Seoul, reflecting both sides’ intent to expand cooperation across political, economic and security domains.

High-Level Dialogue in Seoul

The dialogue was co-chaired by P. Kumaran, Secretary (East) in India’s Ministry of External Affairs, and Park Yoon-joo, First Vice Foreign Minister of the Republic of Korea. Discussions covered the entire spectrum of bilateral engagement, including defence, security, science and technology, culture and people-to-people exchanges.

The two sides agreed to pursue a series of high-level visits and joint commission meetings in 2026. These engagements are expected to inject fresh impetus into diplomatic coordination and policy alignment under the Special Strategic Partnership framework.

Economic and Technological Cooperation

Economic collaboration featured prominently in the talks. India highlighted growing opportunities for Korean firms in shipbuilding and maritime infrastructure. Both sides emphasised cooperation in economic security, resilient supply chains and industrial competitiveness.

They explored joint initiatives in critical minerals and secure supply chains, particularly in the context of global disruptions. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors and green hydrogen were identified as priority areas for collaboration. Enhanced partnerships in these sectors are expected to support innovation, clean energy transitions and long-term industrial growth.

Regional Security and Multilateral Coordination

The dialogue also included exchanges on regional and global developments. Key issues discussed included the situation on the Korean Peninsula and evolving dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region. Both sides recognised the importance of maintaining peace, stability and a rules-based order.

They also discussed strengthening coordination in multilateral forums, underlining their shared commitment to global governance reforms and sustainable development.

Important Facts for Exams

• India–South Korea relations were elevated to a Special Strategic Partnership in 2015.
• The Indo-Pacific region is central to both countries’ foreign policy strategies.
• Critical minerals are essential for semiconductors, renewable energy and defence technologies.
• Green hydrogen is considered a key fuel for achieving net-zero emissions targets.

Broader Diplomatic Engagements

On the margins of the FPSD, Kumaran met South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and reiterated the resolve to elevate bilateral ties. He also held discussions with senior officials from the National Security Office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The visit forms part of ongoing high-level engagements aimed at sustaining the upward trajectory of India–Republic of Korea relations.