South Korea has initiated a significant expansion of its cooperation with Central Asian countries to secure critical minerals, following a landmark summit in Seoul. The first-ever South Korea–Central Asia summit concluded with over 70 agreements and memorandums, underscoring the importance of these minerals for South Korea’s automotive, electronics, battery, and energy sectors.
As part of the agreements, the two sides have committed to biennial summits and have established a C5+1 forum for industry ministers, focusing on enhancing the critical mineral supply chain. South Korea aims to combine its expertise in exploration and processing with Central Asia’s abundant mineral resources, which could lead to the development of local processing industries and high-value manufacturing in the region.
Uzbekistan has taken steps to boost this partnership by proposing an investment alliance centered on critical minerals and the creation of processing clusters. These clusters would encompass exploration, mining, and production, thereby transforming the region from a raw material exporter to a hub of industrial production. Similarly, Kazakhstan is offering collaboration opportunities in areas such as rare metals, nuclear and clean energy, artificial intelligence, and infrastructure, while strengthening its strategic connection with South Korea.
Further cooperation in mineral resources is being sought by Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, focusing on specific minerals like antimony and tungsten. In addition to minerals, South Korea is broadening its involvement in transportation and infrastructure projects across Central Asia, reinforcing its presence in the region.
This move comes amid a growing global interest in Central Asian mineral resources, with countries like China, the United States, the European Union, and Japan also seeking access. Central Asian nations are keen to attract investment that can catalyze the development of local processing facilities and industrial production, reducing their dependency on raw material exports. The next South Korea–Central Asia summit is slated to occur in Kazakhstan in 2028, marking the continuity of this burgeoning partnership.