South Korea is intensifying its collaboration with Central Asian nations on critical minerals following a landmark summit held in Seoul. The inaugural South Korea–Central Asia summit concluded with over 70 agreements, underscoring the importance of securing mineral resources vital for South Korea’s thriving automotive, electronics, and energy sectors.
The summit, which will now occur biennially, established a C5+1 forum for industry ministers to facilitate ongoing dialogue and cooperation. Critical minerals were a focal point of discussions, as South Korea aims to leverage Central Asia’s mineral wealth while Central Asian countries seek to develop local processing capabilities and reduce their reliance on exporting raw materials.
South Korea proposed a strategic partnership that combines its expertise in exploration and advanced manufacturing with Central Asia’s abundant mineral resources. This collaboration is anticipated to span the entire supply chain, from mineral identification and extraction to processing and the production of high-value goods. Additionally, new research and training centers focusing on rare metals are being developed in the region.
Central Asian countries are showing robust interest in this partnership. Uzbekistan has suggested forming an investment alliance for critical minerals and establishing processing clusters, while Kazakhstan is offering cooperation in rare metals, nuclear energy, and infrastructure projects. Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan also seek South Korean assistance in developing their antimony and tungsten resources.
The increased Korean involvement in Central Asia mirrors the growing interest from global players such as China, the United States, the European Union, and Japan, all eager to access the region’s critical mineral resources. Central Asian governments are keen to attract investments that can foster local industrial production and processing industries.
The next South Korea–Central Asia summit is scheduled to take place in Kazakhstan in 2028, reflecting the ongoing commitment to this strategic partnership.