Overview
- Seoul said the two countries will pursue projects exceeding $65 billion, including more than $35 billion tied to defense cooperation.
- A Defense Industry Cooperation Framework MOU moves the relationship beyond arms sales to full lifecycle collaboration spanning design, training, maintenance and repair.
- Specific defense programs were not disclosed for security reasons, though officials referenced integrated air defense, advanced airpower and maritime capabilities in broad terms.
- The partners will revamp a $30 billion investment framework, with details on allocation and channels expected to be outlined around May and at a forthcoming summit.
- Building on the Barakah project, the sides will expand nuclear cooperation on fuel supply, maintenance and AI-driven operations, set biweekly working groups, and plan joint entry into third-country markets, with Khaldoon Al Mubarak expected in Korea in March or April.