South Korea’s efforts to secure reliable sources of critical minerals are set to significantly impact its automotive, electronics, battery, and energy sectors. The country is deepening its cooperation with Central Asian nations following the inaugural South Korea–Central Asia summit in Seoul. This collaboration is aimed at establishing a sustainable supply chain for these essential resources while aiding Central Asian countries in developing local processing capabilities.
The summit yielded more than 70 agreements, with a strong focus on critical minerals. As part of this initiative, South Korea and Central Asian countries have agreed to convene the summit biennially and launch a C5+1 forum for industry ministers. The collaboration promises to integrate Central Asia’s abundant mineral resources with South Korea’s advanced exploration and manufacturing technologies. This partnership is expected to encompass the entire supply chain, from mining to processing and creating high-value products.
Central Asian nations are keen to move beyond merely exporting raw materials. Uzbekistan has proposed forming an investment alliance to focus on critical minerals and developing comprehensive processing clusters. Kazakhstan, meanwhile, is looking to collaborate on rare metals, nuclear and clean energy, artificial intelligence, and infrastructure, reinforcing its strategic partnership with South Korea.
Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan are also pursuing South Korean expertise, particularly in the mining of antimony and tungsten. Additionally, South Korea is expanding its role in Central Asia by investing in transport and infrastructure projects, further solidifying its presence in the region.
This growing Korean involvement comes amid a competitive landscape where China, the United States, the European Union, and Japan are also seeking access to Central Asia’s mineral wealth. By attracting foreign investment, Central Asian governments aim to establish local processing facilities and industrial production, thus creating more value within their economies. The next South Korea–Central Asia summit is scheduled to be held in Kazakhstan in 2028, continuing this collaborative momentum.