Common Concerns: on India–South Korea ties

UPSC Syllabus: Gs Paper 2- International Relation

Introduction

India and South Korea are strengthening their partnership at a time of rising global uncertainty and economic disruptions. The recent visit of Lee Jae Myung after a long gap reflects renewed political commitment. Both countries are focusing on expanding trade, technology cooperation, and strategic alignment. At the same time, shared concerns such as global conflicts, maritime disruptions, and energy insecurity are shaping their engagement and pushing them towards deeper and more coordinated cooperation.

Evolution of India–South Korea Relations

1. Ancient cultural linkage: The relationship goes back to Queen Suriratna (Heo Hwang-ok), who is believed to have come from Ayodhya. This link reflects a deep civilizational connection between the two societies.
2. Modern diplomatic relations: Formal diplomatic ties were established in 1973 at the ambassador level. This created the base for structured political and economic engagement.
3. Strategic upgradation of ties: The relationship was elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2010 and later to a Special Strategic Partnership in 2015. This shows growing convergence in economic and strategic interests.
4. Recent strategic vision: A Joint Strategic Vision (2026–2030) has been launched to deepen cooperation. It also aims to ensure regular high-level meetings and better coordination.

Significance of India–South Korea Relations

1. Trade and investment potential: Bilateral trade is around $27 billion, with a target to reach $50 billion by the end of the decade. This shows there is large untapped economic potential.
2. Complementary economic strengths: India provides a large market and workforce, while Korea offers advanced manufacturing and technology. This complementarity creates strong opportunities for mutual benefit.
3. Technology and industrial cooperation: Both countries are working in areas like critical minerals, quantum computing, and shipbuilding. This helps in building long-term industrial and technological capacity.
4. Strategic Indo-Pacific alignment: Both countries support a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region. This strengthens regional stability and ensures secure trade routes.
5. Shared democratic values: Both countries are based on democracy, market economy, and rule of law. These shared values create mutual trust and support long-term cooperation.
6. Soft power connections: Korean culture like K-pop is popular in India, while Indian cultural influence is visible in Korea. This creates a natural social connection between the people.

Economic and Technological Cooperation

1. Industrial partnerships: Many Korean companies operate in India and are well-known household names. India has become a major production base for these companies.
2. Supply chain resilience: Both countries aim to build strong and diversified supply chains. This is important in a world facing frequent disruptions.
3. Emerging technology collaboration: The focus is shifting to advanced sectors like AI, digital technology, and semiconductors. This reflects a move towards future-oriented cooperation.
4. Maritime and infrastructure cooperation: Agreements in shipbuilding and maritime logistics aim to improve connectivity. This will also strengthen trade efficiency and regional presence.

Challenges and Concerns related to India–South Korea Relations

1. Low trade performance: Bilateral trade remains around $27 billion, which is low for two large economies. This shows that the relationship is not reaching its full potential.
2. Trade imbalance: India exports about $6 billion, while imports from Korea are about $21 billion. This creates a significant trade imbalance.
3. Issues with CEPA agreement: The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) agreement is seen as uneven and has not delivered expected benefits. Talks to upgrade it have been stalled for a long time.
4. Non-tariff barriers: Indian exporters face strict regulatory standards in Korea. These barriers reduce access for sectors like agriculture and pharmaceuticals.
5. Limited tourism exchange: Despite cultural interest, tourist flows remain low. This reduces mutual understanding and engagement.
6. Inconsistent political engagement: High-level visits have not been regular over the years. This has affected the continuity of the relationship.
7. Stalled defence cooperation: Some defence projects have faced delays due to procedural and trust issues. This limits deeper security cooperation.
8. Strategic hesitation: South Korea’s focus on the US and other regions reduces its attention towards India. This affects the depth of strategic engagement.
9. China factor: South Korea’s economic dependence on China creates caution in its strategic decisions. This influences its approach towards India.

Common Global Concerns Affecting Both Countries

1. Impact of global conflicts: Ongoing tensions like the U.S.-Israel–Iran conflict create economic uncertainty. Both countries are affected due to their global trade links.
2. Maritime trade disruptions: Instability in sea routes affects supply chains and trade flows. This directly impacts both economies.
3. Energy insecurity risks: Both countries depend on energy imports and face risks of shortages. This creates long-term economic challenges.
4. Shared vulnerability: Both economies are exposed to global shocks due to their trade dependence. This makes cooperation more important.

Way Forward

1. Fast-track CEPA negotiations: Resolving pending issues in CEPA can improve trade balance. It can also increase overall economic engagement.
2. Improve market access: India should focus on gaining better access in services like IT and healthcare. This will help diversify exports.
3. Address non-tariff barriers: Simplifying regulations can make trade smoother. This will especially benefit small and medium businesses.
4. Strengthen technology partnerships: Both countries should deepen cooperation in areas like semiconductors and AI. This will support long-term growth.
5. Enhance strategic cooperation: Regular high-level meetings and defence dialogue can build trust. This will improve coordination in regional issues.
6. Promote people-to-people ties: Increasing tourism, education exchange, and cultural interaction is important. This will strengthen the social base of the relationship.

Conclusion

India–South Korea relations have strong foundations but remain underutilised in economic and strategic terms. Trade gaps, weak people-to-people ties, and delays in agreements continue to limit progress. At the same time, shared global risks highlight the need for closer cooperation. Sustained engagement, faster reforms, and deeper coordination can help both countries build a resilient and future-oriented partnership.

Question for practice:

Evaluate the significance, challenges, and future prospects of India–South Korea relations in the context of shared global concerns and evolving strategic cooperation.

Source: The Hindu