Back to Editorials
The HinduApril 23, 2026
Common concerns: on India-South Korea ties
- April 23, 2026 12:10 am IST
Read Comments
Related Topics
South Korea
/ diplomacy
/ trade policy
/ technology (general)
/ economy (general)
/ culture (general)
/ arts, culture and entertainment
/ religion and belief
Key GK Takeaways for CLAT
- 1India and the Republic of Korea have elevated their relationship to a 'Special Strategic Partnership,' focusing on maritime security and a free Indo-Pacific. This collaboration, driven by shared democratic values and concerns over regional hegemony, involves joint military exercises and intelligence sharing. Such partnerships are crucial for India's Act East Policy and countering geopolitical instability, forming a key aspect of contemporary international relations.
- 2The India-South Korea Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is pivotal for boosting bilateral trade, aiming for $50 billion by 2030. Investments from Korean chaebols like Samsung and Hyundai in sectors like electronics and automobiles create significant employment in India. The shared cultural heritage, symbolized by the legend of Queen Heo Hwang-ok of Ayodhya, further enhances tourism and people-to-people connections.
- 3To facilitate Korean investments, India's legal framework under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA) is critical. Bilateral Investment Treaties (BITs) provide protection against non-commercial risks and establish mechanisms for international arbitration to resolve disputes. This legal certainty is essential for attracting foreign direct investment and ensuring the smooth operation of multinational corporations within India's constitutional and regulatory system.
- 4India and South Korea are deepening collaboration in critical technologies, including semiconductors, 5G networks, and green hydrogen, aligning with commitments under the Paris Agreement. This technology transfer is vital for India's 'Make in India' initiative, particularly in building a self-reliant defense and electronics manufacturing ecosystem. Such partnerships directly impact national policy on science, environment, and strategic autonomy, making them relevant for legal analysis.