India–South Korea relations have evolved since the end of the Cold War period as both countries have deepened their bilateral economic and strategic ties.[1] Economic liberalisation and the initiation of the ‘Look East’ policy in India played a crucial role in building a partnership between New Delhi and Seoul. More recently, South Korea has emerged as an important partner in India’s ‘Make in India’ strategy, and both countries have been strengthening their bilateral cooperation in arms production.[2] The shipbuilding sector is also projected to see deeper cooperation between these two Asian nations in the coming years.

Notably, India has been heavily dependent on foreign countries in both arms production and shipbuilding. On the other hand, South Korea has emerged as a leading producer of both defence equipment and ships. In the context of the Russia–Ukraine war, which began in 2022, Seoul has emerged as one of the major exporters of arms to North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member states.[3] New Delhi has been looking to build partnerships with countries that could help India develop its arms production and shipbuilding industries. In this regard, India–South Korea relations have gained significance, reflecting the growing trust between them. From the Indian perspective, Seoul is a “crucial partner” in New Delhi’s campaign to become a developed country by 2047.[4]

The Evolution of India–South Korea Economic and Strategic Partnership

Although there had been long historical and cultural relations between the Indian subcontinent and the Korean Peninsula, the economic and strategic relations between India and South Korea progressed after the end of the Cold War. Since then, South Korean Chaebols, or family-controlled large business groups such as Hyundai, Samsung and LG, have gained prominence in the world’s most populous country. South Korean products have gained the trust of Indian consumers for their high quality and reasonable pricing. Similarly, South Korean popular culture, known as the ‘Korean Wave’ or Hallyu, has gained popularity among the Indian population, particularly in the northeastern states.

People-to-people contacts have increased between India and South Korea, and bilateral trade has reached around US$ 27 billion. The strategic engagement........

© IDSA