Lee hails ‘top partnership’ during Vietnam visit

Apr 23, 2026, 08:25 am

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President Lee Jae-myung and To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam and president, toast during a state banquet welcoming the Korean president at the Presidential Palace in Hanoi on April 22. / Yonhap News

President Lee Jae-myung strengthened strategic cooperation with ASEAN during his state visit to Vietnam, the presidential office said on April 23.

According to the office, the visit forms part of a broader “relay summit diplomacy” initiative targeting Southeast Asia, following trips to Singapore and the Philippines as well as Indonesia’s presidential visit to Korea.

“The visit served as an opportunity to complete the highest level of partnership across politics, economy and culture,” a senior official said in a written briefing.

During a summit in Hanoi, Lee and To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam and president, discussed strengthening cooperation on critical mineral supply chains as a key agenda item.

The two sides agreed to expand cooperation by combining Vietnam’s resource base with Korea’s technology, centered on a proposed “critical minerals supply chain center.”

Livelihood cooperation was also addressed. Lee said Korea would pursue projects to significantly improve emergency medical systems in central Vietnam, while To Lam expressed appreciation and willingness to cooperate.

Lee also raised concerns over overcrowding at the Korean International School in Ho Chi Minh City, requesting support for campus expansion and the resolution of teacher work permit issues. To Lam said he would review the matter.

At the state banquet following the summit, cultural exchange was highlighted. Lee shared a photo on social media with football coaches Park Hang-seo and Kim Sang-sik, who have gained popularity in Vietnam.

“Football once again reminded me that it serves as a bridge connecting people and nations,” Lee wrote.

#Lee Jae-myung #Vietnam #To Lam #ASEAN #summit diplomacy