Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with South Korea
The Morrison Government strengthened ties with South Korea as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific, recognising a shared commitment to international rules and regional stability.
On 14 December 2021, Prime Minister Morrison and South Korean President Moon Jae-in elevated the bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) — marking 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. This historic advancement built upon the countries' shared history dating back to the Korean War and reinforced their mutual commitment to an open, inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
The CSP significantly expanded cooperation across defence, security, trade and technology. Key achievements included strengthening defence industry collaboration through a new Memorandum of Understanding, enhancing cyber security cooperation, and deepening bilateral coordination on critical minerals and clean energy technology.
The Morrison Government established several landmark agreements, including the Low and Zero Emissions Technology Partnership and multiple frameworks for space cooperation, digital trade and critical minerals supply chains. The CSP also prioritised practical initiatives in Southeast Asia, demonstrating Australia's commitment to regional stability and ASEAN centrality. The enhanced diplomatic architecture under the CSP ensured ongoing bilateral alignment on key regional challenges, including maritime security and denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula.
The CSP reflected Prime Minister Morrison's broader strategic engagement objectives in the Indo-Pacific — emphasising shared democratic values, economic prosperity and regional security. The Morrison Government positioned Australia to strengthen its relationship with South Korea as a key regional partner while advancing both nations' strategic and economic interests.
Related media:
1. Remarks, Bilateral Meeting with HE Moon Jae-In, President of the Republic of Korea, 12 June 2021: https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43449
2. Press release, Australia and Republic of Korea sign new deals on clean energy tech and critical minerals, 13 December 2021: https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43705
3. Press release, Australia-ROK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, 14 December 2021: https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-44143
