Korea, Uzbekistan deepen special strategic partnership

Uzbek Ambassador to Korea Alisher Abdusalomov / Courtesy of Embassy of Uzbekistan in Seoul

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in January 1992, the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Republic of Korea have progressively built a dynamic and multifaceted partnership, grounded in mutual respect, trust and a shared commitment to sustainable development and prosperity. Over three decades, this bilateral relationship has matured from foundational diplomatic contacts into a robust special strategic partnership, reflective of converging interests and aligned visions for the future.

The 2019 Joint Declaration on a Special Strategic Partnership marked a historic milestone that solidified the framework for collaboration across a spectrum of areas, including economics, investments, science, energy, health care, education and culture. In June 2024, this cooperation was taken further with the endorsement of a new partnership model privileging innovation and high technology, signaling a forward-looking agenda that is well-aligned with global economic transformation trends.

Economic and investment cooperation

Korea has emerged as one of the largest foreign investors in Uzbekistan’s economy, with cumulative investments surpassing $7.5 billion. Trade ties between the two countries are substantial and steadily growing. Korea is the fifth-largest trade partner of Uzbekistan, with annual bilateral trade exceeding $2 billion. While fluctuations occur amid global economic shifts, the trajectory of bilateral trade and investment remains firmly upward.

“Korean investments and technologies are central to modernizing and transforming the Uzbek economy, providing a sustainable platform for future growth and diversification,” Ambassador Alisher Abdusalomov said.

Currently, more than 60 joint investment projects valued at around $8.8 billion are at various phases of implementation. These projects span critical sectors such as transportation infrastructure — including the modernization of railways and urban transit — renewable energy development focusing on solar and hydrogen power, the chemical manufacturing industry, pharmaceutical production and environmentally sustainable technologies.

Landmark initiatives including the construction of advanced medical and pharmaceutical clusters, the localized production of Kia automobiles and textile products, as well as the establishment of the Surgil chemical complex are being carried out in close partnership with Korean partners. These projects not only exemplify the deepening of mutually beneficial cooperation, but also serve as catalysts for industrial modernization, technological innovation and sustainable economic development in Uzbekistan.

High-level political dialogue

The special strategic partnership was reaffirmed during a pivotal telephone conversation in July 2025 between Presidents Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Lee Jae Myung. President Mirziyoyev emphasized, “Deepening our bilateral relations is a key priority of national policy, aimed at integrating more fully into global technological and economic processes.” President Lee reciprocated this commitment by underscoring the importance of advancing cooperation in the digital economy, green technologies and regional collaboration, including in the format of “Central Asia–Republic of Korea.”

These high-level exchanges ensure that bilateral cooperation remains synchronized with evolving international developments and global challenges, and serve as a catalyst for expanding practical engagement across governmental and commercial sectors.

Cultural and humanitarian cooperation

Cultural diplomacy plays a vital role in consolidating the foundations of the bilateral relationship. The joint 2024–2025 Year of Mutual Exchange has invigorated educational partnerships, academic exchanges and cultural events that deepen interpersonal understanding and familiarity. The Korean diaspora in Uzbekistan, numbering over 174,000, constitutes a vibrant community that acts as a cultural and social bridge, facilitating people-to-people connections and fostering mutual goodwill.

Regional and strategic importance

Beyond bilateral cooperation, Uzbekistan and Korea engage actively within strategic regional frameworks. Collaborative efforts to develop Eurasian transport corridors enhance logistical connectivity, trade facilitation and economic integration across Central Asia and beyond. These initiatives contribute importantly to regional stability and prosperity, aligning with shared interests in security and sustainable development. Uzbekistan is also keen to further enhance cooperation within the framework of the “Central Asia–Republic of Korea” dialogue.

Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev / Courtesy of Embassy of Uzbekistan in Seoul

Technology and innovative sectors

Strategic cooperation is expanding into cutting-edge sectors such as critical mineral processing, semiconductor manufacturing and precision chemical industries. Among the most ambitious initiatives is the creation of Central Asia’s first semiconductor cluster, in partnership with Korean Eximbank. This project leverages Korea’s world-class technological expertise to position Uzbekistan as a regional high-tech hub.

At the same time, infrastructure modernization remains a core priority of bilateral cooperation. A landmark agreement signed in 2024 paved the way for the supply of Hyundai Rotem’s high-speed KTX trains to Uzbekistan — marking the first-ever export of this advanced technology and a transformative step forward in the nation’s railway capabilities. In parallel, Incheon International Airport Corp. has embarked on a public-private partnership project to modernize Urgench International Airport, thereby enhancing Uzbekistan’s connectivity, trade and tourism potential.

Outlook and forecast

Looking ahead, the special strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Korea stands poised for expansive growth and diversification. The confluence of shared strategic objectives, complemented by deepening economic ties and vibrant cultural exchanges, positions both countries to capitalize on emerging opportunities in an increasingly interconnected global economy.

Uzbekistan’s sustained commitment to economic reforms, fostering a favorable investment climate and prioritizing innovation aligns seamlessly with Korea’s global ambitions in technology and sustainable development. Joint efforts in green energy, digital transformation and regional security will further cement the partnership as a pillar of stability and prosperity in Asia.

Uzbekistan remains a steadfast, equal and proactive partner on the international stage, fully confident that ongoing and future cooperation with the Republic of Korea will yield tangible benefits for the peoples of both nations and contribute constructively to regional and global progress.

Alisher Abdusalomov is the Uzbekistan ambassador to Korea.