The expansion of cooperation between South Korea and Central Asian countries is poised to reshape the landscape of critical mineral supply and processing. By integrating South Korean expertise with Central Asia’s rich mineral resources, both regions aim to enhance their industrial capabilities and economic resilience. This development follows the first South Korea–Central Asia summit held in Seoul, where over 70 agreements aimed at strengthening ties were made.
A key outcome of the summit was the establishment of a C5+1 forum for industry ministers, which will convene every two years to build on these initiatives. Central to the discussions was the collaboration on critical minerals, crucial for South Korea’s automotive, electronics, battery, and energy sectors. In turn, Central Asian nations are keen to develop local processing industries to move beyond the traditional model of merely exporting raw materials.
South Korea has proposed a comprehensive partnership that spans the entire supply chain of these minerals. This includes identifying deposits, mining, processing, and eventually manufacturing higher-value products. Additionally, the creation of rare metals research and training centers in Central Asia is on the agenda, which could further cement this partnership by enhancing local expertise.
Uzbekistan has taken a proactive approach by suggesting the formation of an investment alliance focused on critical minerals. This initiative aims to develop processing clusters that cover exploration, mining, and production processes. Meanwhile, Kazakhstan is looking to deepen cooperation in areas such as rare metals, nuclear and clean energy, artificial intelligence, and infrastructure, solidifying its strategic partnership with South Korea.
Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan are also engaging with South Korea, particularly in the sectors of antimony and tungsten, minerals of strategic importance. Beyond minerals, South Korea is increasing its involvement in transportation and infrastructure projects across Central Asia, indicating a broader interest in the region’s economic development.
This growing South Korean involvement comes at a time when global powers like China, the United States, the European Union, and Japan are similarly seeking to tap into Central Asia’s critical mineral wealth. With the next South Korea–Central Asia summit scheduled for 2028 in Kazakhstan, the groundwork laid in Seoul could serve as a pivotal moment for future regional collaboration and economic advancement.