Singapore and South Korea are deepening their strategic partnership, marking 50 years of diplomatic relations with a series of agreements that span energy, defence, and technology. The elevation of bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, announced by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, underscores a shared commitment to regional stability, innovation, and sustainable development.
At the heart of this enhanced collaboration is a Nuclear Cooperation Agreement, which will facilitate joint efforts in civil nuclear energy technologies, safety protocols, emergency responsiveness, and workforce development. This agreement aligns with both nations’ ambitions to advance energy transitions, promote green technologies, and bolster energy security. “This partnership is a testament to our shared interest in developing sustainable energy solutions while ensuring robust infrastructure and security,” said PM Wong during a joint press conference.
Beyond nuclear cooperation, Singapore and South Korea will also strengthen their partnership in liquefied natural gas (LNG) through the implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in October 2024. The two countries will explore sustainable financing mechanisms for low-carbon transitions, exchange insights on digital sustainability—including green software applications and carbon measurement—and collaborate on standards for low-carbon alternative fuels such as ammonia and hydrogen.
The strategic partnership extends to defence and cybersecurity, with both nations agreeing to enhance bilateral defence dialogues, military exchanges, and joint research and development in defence technology. The annual Republic of Korea (ROK)-Singapore Joint Steering Committee on Defence Technology Cooperation will play a pivotal role in driving these initiatives. Additionally, the two countries will renew their Information Exchange Agreement (IEA) on the Verification of Chemical and Biological Warfare Agents and explore collaboration on microelectronics through a Project Agreement (PA) or Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).
Cybersecurity remains a critical area of focus, with both nations committing to operational collaborations, policy exchanges, and regional capacity-building activities. These efforts will be discussed under the ROK-Singapore Cyber Dialogue, with both sides aiming to promote an open, secure, and interoperable cyberspace at multilateral forums, including the United Nations.
The upgraded ties also encompass broader areas such as civil administration, healthcare, pharmaceutical regulation, law enforcement, food security, technological research, and people-to-people exchanges. With seven MOUs signed—covering public personnel administration, green and digital shipping corridors, digitalisation, and culture and sports—this partnership reflects a comprehensive approach to fostering mutual growth and regional cooperation.
As both nations navigate the complexities of geopolitical shifts and technological advancements, this strengthened alliance positions Singapore and South Korea as key players in shaping a secure, sustainable, and interconnected future.