South Korea is set to benefit from a robust partnership with Central Asian nations, focusing on the supply and processing of critical minerals. This collaboration promises to boost South Korea’s automotive, electronics, battery, and energy sectors by securing a reliable source of essential raw materials. Meanwhile, Central Asian countries stand to gain from enhanced local processing capabilities, moving beyond the simple export of raw materials.
The strategic cooperation was formalized at the inaugural South Korea–Central Asia summit held in Seoul, which concluded with over 70 agreements and memorandums. A significant outcome of the summit was the establishment of a C5+1 forum for industry ministers, signifying a commitment to meet every two years to foster ongoing collaboration.
Central to this agreement is the integration of Central Asia’s mineral wealth with South Korea’s expertise in exploration, processing, and advanced manufacturing. The cooperative efforts are expected to encompass the entire supply chain, including the identification of deposits, mining operations, and the production of high-value goods. Furthermore, the development of rare metals research and training centers in the region is underway.
Specific proposals highlight the depth of this emerging partnership. Uzbekistan has suggested the creation of an investment alliance for critical minerals and the establishment of processing clusters. Kazakhstan has put forward plans for cooperation in rare metals, nuclear and clean energy, and artificial intelligence, while also seeking to strengthen its strategic ties with South Korea.
Besides minerals, South Korea is expanding its involvement in Central Asian transport and infrastructure projects, responding to the region’s increasing focus on attracting investments that facilitate local industrial production. This growing interest also mirrors the broader geopolitical competition, as China, the United States, the European Union, and Japan vie for access to Central Asia’s rich mineral resources.
The next summit, scheduled for 2028 in Kazakhstan, will serve as a platform to assess progress and explore further opportunities, underscoring the long-term commitment between South Korea and the Central Asian countries.