Korea, Indonesia boost resource security ties

Apr 02, 2026, 09:44 am

		0
Lee Jae-myung and Prabowo Subianto exchange gifts after watching a Taekwondo demonstration at the presidential office in Seoul on April 1. / Cheong Wa Dae

South Korea and Indonesia agreed to elevate their relationship to a “special comprehensive strategic partnership” and strengthen cooperation across defense, advanced technology, energy, and infrastructure during a summit on April 1.

At the meeting held at the presidential office, Lee Jae-myung emphasized the urgency of expanding cooperation in resource security amid global supply chain disruptions triggered by Middle East tensions.

“Given concerns over major shocks to energy supply chains, it is necessary for our two countries to expand cooperation in resource security to minimize the impact of this crisis,” Lee said.

He described Indonesia as a “reliable partner” in ensuring stable supplies of key energy resources such as LNG and coal, adding, “In an era of growing global uncertainty, our existence is a blessing to each other.”

According to the presidential office, both leaders agreed to work closely to mitigate the impact of global instability on their economies and people’s livelihoods, including securing stable maritime transport routes for energy supplies.

During a state luncheon, Lee also encouraged stronger support for South Korean companies operating in Indonesia and urged active expansion into the local market. Business leaders including SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won, Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Eui-sun, and Lotte Group Chairman Shin Dong-bin attended the event.

Lee highlighted Indonesia as a key partner in Korea’s defense industry, calling for expanded cooperation beyond arms exports to include joint production, maintenance, and workforce training.

The two leaders also welcomed progress in the joint development of the KF-21/IF-X fighter jet project and agreed to further deepen comprehensive defense cooperation.

President Prabowo Subianto underscored the complementary strengths of the two nations, noting Korea’s advanced industrial and technological capabilities and Indonesia’s abundant natural resources and large market.

He acknowledged past misunderstandings but emphasized shared interests, stating that bilateral relations should continue to grow stronger despite challenges.

The summit resulted in the adoption of a joint statement formalizing the upgraded partnership and the signing of 16 memorandums of understanding, including agreements to strengthen cooperation on critical minerals such as nickel and cobalt — key materials for battery industries.

Both sides also agreed to work toward restoring bilateral trade above $30 billion and to expand cooperation in the shipbuilding sector.

#Lee Jae-myung #Prabowo Subianto #Korea Indonesia relations #resource security #energy cooperation