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South Korean President Lee Jae-myung meets German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during a bilateral summit at the G20 venue in Johannesburg, South Africa, on November 22. / Source: Yonhap News

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung held separate bilateral summits with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday, discussing expanded cooperation in defense and advanced industries on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg.

According to the presidential office, Lee told Merz that Germany plays a crucial role as Europe strengthens its defense capabilities, and noted that South Korean defense firms are eager to deepen cooperation with Berlin. The meeting was the first in-person encounter between the two leaders since their initial phone call four months ago.

The two leaders also emphasized shared characteristics as manufacturing powerhouses and nations with histories of national division, agreeing to strengthen cooperation in areas including energy and critical minerals. Lee highlighted Germany’s role as a key gateway for Korean companies in Europe, with about 850 Korean firms currently operating in the country.

During the meeting, Lee asked Merz to share Germany’s experience with unification. “How Germany overcame division and achieved unification is something we must learn from,” he said. “If you have any special or hidden know-how, please share it with us.”

Merz expressed strong interest in developments on the Korean Peninsula. He said Germany is reviewing its strategy toward China and wants to expand its partnership with Korea on issues related to Northeast Asia.

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South Korean President Lee Jae-myung holds talks with French President Emmanuel Macron at the G20 Summit venue in Johannesburg, South Africa, on November 22. / Source: Yonhap News

Lee also met with French President Emmanuel Macron, emphasizing competitive and complementary cooperation in the defense sector. He proposed expanding collaboration in advanced technologies such as AI and space, as well as in cultural exchanges.

He said, “I hope Korea–France relations will elevate to a higher level as a strategic partnership, and that we can strengthen cooperation in culture, the economy, security and advanced technologies.” Noting that next year marks the 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties, Lee invited Macron to visit Seoul as a state guest.

Lee also expressed gratitude for France’s troop deployment during the Korean War, adding that the French Revolution influenced Korea’s democratic development.

Macron responded by calling for deeper bilateral cooperation in defense, space, nuclear energy, critical minerals, AI, quantum technologies and renewable energy. He said he would consider a visit to Seoul next year to mark the 140th anniversary of Korea–France relations.