India-South Korea Bilateral Relations
Special Strategic Partnership
India and South Korea (Republic of Korea) established diplomatic relations in 1973. The relationship was elevated to a "Special Strategic Partnership" in 2015, encompassing defence, civil nuclear cooperation, trade (India-Korea CEPA), and technology collaboration. South Korea is a significant defence industrial partner for India.
- India-Korea CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement): signed August 7, 2009; entered into force January 1, 2010 — India's second CEPA after Singapore
- K9-Vajra: self-propelled howitzer jointly produced by Hanwha Defense (South Korea) and L&T (India) for the Indian Army; 100 units ordered; first batch delivered 2018; manufactured at L&T's facility in Hazira, Gujarat — a significant "Make in India" defence project
- Korea-India Defence Accelerator (KIND-X): announced during this visit; modelled on the India-US INDUS-X platform; connects defence companies, research institutions, and startups
- Defence and Foreign Affairs 2+2 Dialogue: inaugural dialogue agreed during this visit (at vice-minister level)
- South Korea joined India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) — a non-military framework focused on maritime security, ecology, and blue economy
- South Korea is a major FDI source for India: companies like Samsung, Hyundai, LG have large India manufacturing footprints
● Tracked since April 19, 2026 · last seen May 21, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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