India-South Korea Defence Relations

January 3, 2024

GS Paper II International Relations

Context: The recent visit of Indian Army Chief General Manoj Pande to the Republic of Korea, marked a crucial moment in the course of India-South Korea defence relations.

50 Years of India-South Korea Relations

In 2023, India and South Korea celebrated their 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
The visit is historically significant as it commemorates the Indian Army’s crucial role 73 years ago in the Korean War, where they provided medical aid and contributed a brigade called ‘Custodian Force’ under the United Nations

What is Korean War (1950-1953)?

It was a conflict between North and South Korea which resulted in at least 2.5 million casualties. Initiated in June 1950 with North Korea invading the South, it escalated into an international conflict involving the United Nations, the U.S., and China. The war concluded in July 1953, leaving Korea divided.

About India-South Korea Defence Relations

India-South Korea Defence Relations

Cooperation in Defense & Logistics: In 2005, India and South Korea signed an agreement to cooperate in defense and logistics.
Cooperation between Coast Guards: In 2022, the Korea Coast Guard and Indian Coast Guard conducted joint exercises, further improving interoperability.
Biggest Overseas Outreach Initiative of Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO): In 2013, an 18-member team led by the Scientific Advisor to the Defence Minister & Chief of DRDO participated in the Seoul International Aerospace and Defence Exhibition, which was DRDO’s biggest ever overseas outreach initiative.
On National Security: In 2014, an agreement on the Protection of Classified Military Information.
India-Korea Friendship Park: In 2021, the India-Korea Friendship Park was inaugrated at the Delhi Cantonment to commemorate the contribution of the Indian peacekeeping force during the Korean war of 1950-53.
On Defence Industries Cooperation: In 2019, India and South Korea signed a Roadmap for Defence Industries Cooperation.
2+2 dialogue at Defence Secretariat Level: They have established annual Defence Ministerial Dialogues since 2015, elevating them to a 2+2 dialogue in 2019 at Defence Secretariat Level.
Weapons Procured:
- K-9 Vajra Guns: India had procured 100 K-9 Vajra guns from South Korea under Make in India project in the year 2018.
- Navy’s P75 (I) Project: South Korea has shown interest in Indian Navy’s P75 (I) project under which 06 stealth submarines to be built indigenously again under Make in India.