Significant Milestone for Korea and Singapore
As Singapore and South Korea celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations, the two countries aim to elevate their ties to a “strategic partnership.” This milestone was highlighted during a reception at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Seoul on June 30, 2025, attended by diplomats, business leaders, and officials from both nations.
Singaporean Ambassador to Seoul, Eric Teo, expressed his anticipation for upgrading bilateral ties as part of this significant year. Reflecting on five decades of cooperation, Teo noted that the partnership between the two nations had grown from shared challenges—both being resource-scarce nations surrounded by larger neighbours—to a thriving relationship built on education, human capital, and shared values.
Teo highlighted the recent phone call between Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, where both leaders discussed enhancing collaboration across various sectors. He emphasized that the two countries are aligned in promoting a rules-based multilateral order, open trade, and respect for international law.
Since their diplomatic ties began in 1975, bilateral trade between the nations has grown by 400 times, with significant increases in tourism, investments, and flights. Today, Singapore has direct flights to three major Korean cities—Incheon, Busan, and Jeju.
Looking ahead, Teo identified potential areas for further collaboration, including the digital economy, artificial intelligence, green technology, sustainability, and cybersecurity. He also noted the strong ties between the people of both countries, who regularly visit each other for tourism, study, work, and personal connections.
As Singapore and South Korea mark this golden jubilee, the future looks promising, with both nations committed to deepening their cooperation and achieving even greater mutual success.
