India–South Korea Bilateral Relations
India and South Korea established diplomatic relations in 1973. The relationship was elevated to a "Special Strategic Partnership" in 2015. South Korea is one of India's key technology and investment partners in the Indo-Pacific region. Bilateral trade stands at approximately $20–25 billion annually, with South Korean conglomerates (Samsung, Hyundai, LG, POSCO) having major manufacturing and investment footprints in India.
- Diplomatic relations established: 1973
- Upgraded to Special Strategic Partnership: 2015 (during Prime Minister Modi's visit to Seoul)
- Bilateral trade: ~$21–25 billion annually (FY2024)
- Key South Korean investments in India: Samsung (electronics), Hyundai/Kia (automobiles), LG (electronics), POSCO (steel)
- Defence cooperation: South Korea's K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer co-produced with India (Hanwha-L&T partnership); South Korea a potential partner for India's fleet tanker and warship programmes
- Both nations are democracies with technology-driven economies and similar export-led growth models
● Tracked since April 19, 2026 · last seen April 21, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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