Why Seoul, Delhi need more ambitious ties

For many Indians, South Korea is primarily associated with major brands such as LG, Samsung, Hyundai, and Kia, as well as K-pop and K-drama. Conversely, Koreans view India as a market for these products. Beyond these associations, however, the bilateral relationship between India and South Korea may seem somewhat lacklustre and perhaps even mundane. Despite the potential, there is a notable lack of innovative ideas, and the relationship remains predominantly transactional rather than strategic.

A strategic relationship goes beyond mere trade and includes aspects like defence, security, and long-term collaboration. Expanding the scope of the partnership to encompass these elements could significantly enhance the ties between Seoul and Delhi.

Seoul’s New Strategic Context and Increasing Concerns

South Korea is actively diversifying its strategic partnerships and policies due to several critical factors:

• North Korea’s Escalating Threat: North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un, continues to advance the country’s nuclear program despite international sanctions. Its strategic maneuvers—such as engaging with Donald Trump, Russia, and China—have heightened Seoul’s security concerns. These relationships have made it easier for North Korea to continue its nuclear ambitions without significant international interference.
• Provocations and Rising Tensions: Recent provocations, such as the launch of “garbage balloons” by North Korea, have set off alarm bells in Seoul, heightening tensions and harming national sentiments.
• Doubts About U.S. Commitment: There is growing scepticism among South Korean strategic thinkers regarding the United States’ willingness to defend South Korea in the event of a North Korean attack, despite existing security guarantees.
• North Korea-Russia Defense Pact: The recent defence agreement between North Korea and Russia has sharply heightened concerns in Seoul, further complicating the security dynamics in the region.
• China’s Increasing Assertiveness: China’s ever-growing assertiveness in the region adds another layer to Seoul’s security concerns, creating a complex four-stroke security puzzle for South Korea.

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South Korea’s Evolving Strategy

• Seeking Trustworthy Partners: In response to growing security challenges, South Korea is actively seeking reliable partners, such as India. The two countries have a growing convergence of interests, particularly regarding concerns about China and uncertainties over U.S. support in the event of a North Korean attack.

• Rethinking Nuclear Strategy: A rising narrative among South Korean strategists advocates for a “nuke for nuke” approach, considering the development of an indigenous nuclear arsenal. While the official stance remains anti-nuclear, this discourse gains traction amid fears that no ally might come to South Korea’s defence.  
• Reconciliation with Japan: South Korea is moving towards a pragmatic approach to relations with Japan, setting aside historical grievances in favour of realpolitik. Security threats from North Korea, China, and potential U.S. ambivalence have driven Seoul to prioritise contemporary security challenges over historical issues. This shift was evident in last year’s Camp David summit, where both nations acknowledged their shared security concerns.
• Critical stand towards China: South Korea is gradually shedding its strategic ambivalence, particularly concerning its stance on China. Emulating India, South Korea has become more vocal about its strategic interests in the region. This shift is exemplified by South Korea’s own Indo-Pacific strategy, which aligns with India’s vision and seeks to counter China’s influence in the region.

• New Southern Policy: South Korea’s New Southern Policy aims to broaden its strategic reach, reduce dependence on China, and engage with new partners in the broader neighbourhood. By aspiring to become a “global pivotal state,” South Korea seeks to elevate its role from a regional to a global player, where India’s importance as a strategic partner is increasingly recognized.

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Proposed Enhancements to the Delhi-Seoul Relationship

• Upgrading the Relationship: Transitioning the current diplomatic relationship between India and South Korea from a joint commission level to a more robust “2+2” dialogue format, which includes both foreign and defence ministers, would significantly enhance strategic cooperation and ensure comprehensive engagement on key issues.
• Defence Cooperation: There is vast potential for joint defence production and collaboration for third-country markets. For example, India and South Korea could co-develop arms or defence systems that could be sold to other countries, boosting both nations’ defence industries and strategic influence.
• Critical and Emerging Technologies: A joint India-South Korea initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) should be established, similar to the existing framework between New Delhi and Washington. This initiative would foster collaboration on cutting-edge technologies, ensuring that both countries remain competitive and secure in the face of rapidly evolving global technological landscapes.
• Deeper Political Engagement: Enhancing political dialogue and cooperation through regular high-level meetings and exchanges would ensure that both countries remain aligned on regional and global issues, reinforcing their partnership in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

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Conclusion

India and South Korea share a common interest in counterbalancing China in the Indo-Pacific region. With positive sentiments between the nations and a significant convergence of interests, there is immense potential to strengthen their bilateral relationship across multiple domains. Enhanced cooperation would not only bolster the strategic capabilities of both countries but also contribute to regional stability and security.

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