S. Korea, Central Asia agree to deepen ties under Seoul Declaration

한-중앙아 6개국, 첫 정상회의서 ‘서울선언’ 채택

Welcome to Within The Frame, where we bring the most pressing issues across the globe into focus. I'm Kim Mok-yeon.
South Korea and the five Central Asian nations have wrapped up their first-ever summit at the leaders’ level, marking a major step forward in ties that have steadily expanded over the past three decades.
At the center of the summit was the Seoul Declaration, which puts the partnership on a more permanent footing, with summits every two years and new channels for continued dialogue.
The leaders also agreed to deepen cooperation with regard to critical minerals, supply chains, trade and investment, as well as technology and connectivity.

So what did this first summit actually achieve, and where does the partnership go from here?

For a deeper discussion on this, we are joined by former South Korean Ambassador to Kazakhstan Joohyeon Baik. Welcome.


1. (BAIK) Let’s start with the summit itself.
What was the significance of bringing Korea and all five Central Asian countries together at the leaders’ level for the first time?


2. (BAIK) One key outcome was the Seoul Declaration, which institutionalizes the partnership.
The summit will now be held every two years, with meetings at other levels in between. How significant is this new framework?


3. (BAIK) So why is Central Asia becoming more strategically important to Korea, especially when it comes to supply chains and energy security?


4. (BAIK) On economic security, the declaration links Central Asia’s critical minerals with Korea’s advanced technology.
How far could this partnership go beyond resource trade and create more value together?


5. (BAIK) The two sides also agreed on a new industry ministers’ consultative body and Korean Desks in all five countries.
How much could these measures actually boost trade and investment?


6. (BAIK) Another shift is from bilateral ties to cooperation with Central Asia as a region.
What does this regional approach offer both sides?


7. (BAIK) You served as Korea’s ambassador to Kazakhstan, which will host the next Korea-Central Asia Summit in Astana in 2028.
What role could Kazakhstan play in moving this regional partnership forward?


8. (BAIK) There are also deep historical and human ties, particularly through the Koryo-saram community.
How important are those connections in building trust today?


9. (BAIK) President Lee spoke of preparing for the next 30 years together.
Beyond the areas we’ve discussed, where do you see the most room for cooperation to grow?


10. (BAIK) Finally, the challenge now is implementation.
What will it take to turn these summit commitments into tangible results and a lasting regional partnership?



That will be all from us on Within the Frame.
Be sure to tune in next time as we continue to explore the stories that matter. Until then, stay informed and engaged!

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2026-09-17, 20:30 (KST)