Story perspectives

South Korean President Lee to Strengthen Ties with India, Vietnam

4/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung will visit India and Vietnam from April 19 to 24, 2023, marking the first state visit by a South Korean leader to India in eight years.
President Lee will hold a summit with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss cooperation in shipbuilding, artificial intelligence, and defense.
An economic delegation of about 200 members, including heads of major conglomerates, will accompany him.
In Vietnam, President Lee will meet with leader To Lam to enhance relations in energy and trade, targeting $150 billion in bilateral trade by 2030.

History

Historical Context

Since establishing diplomatic ties in 1973, South Korea and India have progressively strengthened their relationship, particularly after the 1997 Asian financial crisis prompted South Korean investments in India. The 2015 Special Strategic Partnership aimed to enhance cooperation, targeting $150 billion in bilateral trade by 2030, reflecting the growing significance of their economic and defense collaboration in the region.

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Story summary

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung will visit India and Vietnam from April 19 to 24, 2023, marking the first state visit by a South Korean leader to India in eight years.
President Lee will hold a summit with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss cooperation in shipbuilding, artificial intelligence, and defense.
An economic delegation of about 200 members, including heads of major conglomerates, will accompany him.
In Vietnam, President Lee will meet with leader To Lam to enhance relations in energy and trade, targeting $150 billion in bilateral trade by 2030.

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