India South Korea Relations 2019

South Korean President Moon Jae-in's 2019 visit to India marked a significant step in bolstering bilateral relations. The visit saw the introduction of the '3P Plus' framework, emphasizing cooperation for people, prosperity, and peace. A key highlight was the joint inauguration, with the Indian Prime Minister, of Samsung's mobile manufacturing plant in Noida, recognized as the world's largest. Beyond economic collaboration, South Korea became only the second nation, after China, to engage with India on a joint project in Afghanistan. The 'Korea Plus' initiative, initially proposed by the Indian Prime Minister in 2016, was officially launched to streamline and encourage Korean investments within India.

South Korea's foreign policy is increasingly shaped by the 'New Southern Policy,' which seeks to elevate its relationships with ASEAN nations to a level commensurate with its ties to global powers like the United States, China, Japan, and Russia. This policy operates within the broader context of the 'Northeast Asia Plus Community for Responsibility-sharing (NEAPC)' strategy, with a particular focus on deepening economic relations with both India and Southeast Asian countries.

The burgeoning relationship between India and South Korea in 2019, exemplified by President Moon Jae-in's visit and the ensuing agreements, represents a strategic alignment driven by converging economic interests, shared security concerns, and a mutual desire for a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. This partnership, however, is not a sudden phenomenon but rather the culmination of decades of careful cultivation, built upon historical connections, economic pragmatism, and a shared vision for a multipolar world.

Historical Roots and the Evolution of Bilateral Ties

The connection between India and the Korean peninsula stretches back centuries, predating modern diplomatic relations. Ancient Buddhist texts and artifacts found in both regions point to a vibrant exchange of ideas and cultural influences. The story of Princess Suriratna (Heo Hwang-ok), who according to Korean legend, traveled from Ayodhya in India to Korea in 48 AD and married King Kim Suro, the founder of the Gaya Confederacy, is a powerful symbol of this ancient connection. While the historicity of the legend is debated, it continues to resonate in popular culture and serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted ties between the two civilizations.

However, the modern relationship truly began to take shape in the aftermath of the Korean War (1950-1953). India, under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, adopted a non-aligned stance during the Cold War, refusing to be drawn into either the US-led or the Soviet-led blocs. Despite this neutrality, India played a crucial role in the Korean War, not as a combatant but as a mediator and humanitarian actor. India chaired the Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission (NNRC), which was tasked with overseeing the repatriation of prisoners of war after the armistice agreement was signed. This impartial role earned India the respect of both North and South Korea and laid the foundation for future diplomatic engagement.

Formal diplomatic relations between India and South Korea were established in 1973. Initially, the relationship was primarily focused on economic cooperation, with India seeking to learn from South Korea's rapid industrialization and technological advancements. During the 1980s and 1990s, as India embarked on its own economic liberalization program, South Korean companies began to invest in India, particularly in sectors like electronics, automobiles, and infrastructure. This marked a significant shift in the relationship, moving beyond simple trade to encompass investment, technology transfer, and joint ventures.

The "Look East" policy, launched by India in the early 1990s, further accelerated the development of the bilateral relationship. This policy, later renamed the "Act East" policy, aimed to strengthen India's ties with Southeast Asia and East Asia, recognizing the growing economic and strategic importance of the region. South Korea became a key partner in this initiative, with both countries recognizing the mutual benefits of closer cooperation.

The '3P Plus' Vision: A Framework for Comprehensive Cooperation

President Moon Jae-in's articulation of the '3P Plus' framework during his 2019 visit was a significant moment, encapsulating the multifaceted nature of the India-South Korea relationship. The '3Ps' – People, Prosperity, and Peace – represent the core pillars of cooperation, while the 'Plus' signifies the potential for expansion and deeper engagement in other areas.

• People: This pillar emphasizes cultural exchange, educational cooperation, and people-to-people connections. It recognizes that strong bilateral relations are built not just on economic and strategic interests but also on mutual understanding and respect between the two societies. Initiatives under this pillar include student exchange programs, cultural festivals, and tourism promotion. The increasing popularity of Korean pop culture (K-Pop) and Korean dramas (K-Dramas) in India, and the growing interest in Indian culture and spirituality in South Korea, are testament to the strengthening people-to-people connections.

• Prosperity: This pillar focuses on economic cooperation, trade, investment, and technology transfer. It recognizes the potential for both countries to benefit from closer economic integration and collaboration in areas like manufacturing, infrastructure, and innovation. The inauguration of Samsung's mobile manufacturing plant in Noida, the world's largest, is a prime example of this cooperation. Other initiatives include efforts to reduce trade barriers, promote investment, and facilitate technology transfer in key sectors like renewable energy, biotechnology, and information technology.

• Peace: This pillar highlights cooperation in the areas of security, defense, and regional stability. It recognizes the shared interest in maintaining peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region and addressing common challenges like terrorism, piracy, and climate change. Initiatives under this pillar include joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, and cooperation in maritime security. Both countries also share a common interest in denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula and promoting peaceful resolution of disputes in the region.

The 'Plus' in '3P Plus' is intentionally left open-ended, signaling the potential for further expansion of cooperation in areas such as environmental protection, healthcare, and space exploration. It reflects the dynamic and evolving nature of the relationship and the willingness of both countries to explore new avenues for collaboration.

'Korea Plus': Facilitating Investment and Economic Growth

The 'Korea Plus' initiative, launched in 2016 following a proposal by the Indian Prime Minister, is a dedicated mechanism to facilitate Korean investments in India. This initiative recognizes the importance of foreign direct investment (FDI) as a driver of economic growth and job creation and aims to provide a streamlined and efficient process for Korean companies looking to invest in India.

'Korea Plus' operates as a special unit within Invest India, the official investment promotion agency of the Indian government. It provides a single point of contact for Korean investors, offering assistance with regulatory approvals, land acquisition, infrastructure development, and other aspects of setting up and running a business in India. The initiative also works to address specific challenges faced by Korean companies, such as bureaucratic hurdles, infrastructure bottlenecks, and policy uncertainties.

The success of 'Korea Plus' can be measured by the significant increase in Korean investment in India since its launch. Korean companies have invested billions of dollars in various sectors, including electronics, automobiles, chemicals, and infrastructure. These investments have created thousands of jobs and contributed to India's economic growth. The initiative has also helped to improve the overall business climate in India, making it more attractive to foreign investors.

South Korea's 'New Southern Policy' and India's Centrality

South Korea's 'New Southern Policy' (NSP), unveiled by President Moon Jae-in, represents a significant shift in South Korea's foreign policy, prioritizing relations with ASEAN countries and India. The NSP aims to diversify South Korea's partnerships, reducing its reliance on traditional allies like the United States and its economic dependence on China. It also reflects South Korea's growing recognition of the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region.

The NSP has three main pillars:

• People: Promoting cultural exchange, educational cooperation, and people-to-people connections with ASEAN countries and India.

• Prosperity: Enhancing economic cooperation, trade, investment, and infrastructure development with ASEAN countries and India.

• Peace: Strengthening security cooperation, maritime security, and counter-terrorism efforts with ASEAN countries and India.

India is a central pillar of the NSP, recognized as a major economic power, a strategic partner, and a key player in the Indo-Pacific region. South Korea sees India as a valuable partner in promoting regional stability, countering terrorism, and ensuring freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. The NSP also aims to leverage India's economic potential, tapping into its large and growing market and its skilled workforce.

The NSP complements India's 'Act East' policy, creating a synergy that benefits both countries. Both policies share a common goal of strengthening ties with the Indo-Pacific region and promoting economic growth and security. The NSP has led to increased cooperation between India and South Korea in various areas, including trade, investment, defense, and maritime security.

Joint Projects in Afghanistan: A Symbol of Strategic Convergence

South Korea's decision to collaborate with India on a joint project in Afghanistan is a significant development, demonstrating a shared commitment to the stability and development of the war-torn country. Afghanistan has been a major recipient of Indian aid and investment, with India undertaking various infrastructure projects, including the construction of roads, schools, and hospitals. South Korea has also provided assistance to Afghanistan, focusing on areas like education, healthcare, and rural development.

The joint project, the details of which remain somewhat limited in public domain, signifies a deeper level of strategic convergence between India and South Korea. It reflects a shared understanding of the challenges facing Afghanistan and a common desire to contribute to its long-term stability. The project also demonstrates a willingness to work together in addressing complex regional issues, even in challenging environments.

This collaboration is particularly noteworthy because it positions South Korea as only the second country, after China, to engage in a joint project with India in Afghanistan. This highlights the growing strategic trust between the two countries and their willingness to cooperate on sensitive issues.

Samsung's Noida Plant: A Flagship of Economic Cooperation

The inauguration of Samsung's mobile manufacturing plant in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, as the world's largest, was a landmark event in the India-South Korea economic relationship. The plant represents a significant investment by Samsung in India and a testament to the country's growing attractiveness as a manufacturing hub.

The plant has the capacity to produce millions of smartphones per year, catering to both the Indian market and export demand. It has created thousands of jobs and contributed to the growth of the Indian electronics manufacturing sector. The plant also showcases Samsung's commitment to "Make in India," a government initiative aimed at promoting domestic manufacturing and reducing reliance on imports.

The Samsung plant is not just a manufacturing facility; it is also a symbol of the broader economic cooperation between India and South Korea. It represents the potential for both countries to benefit from closer economic integration and collaboration in areas like technology, innovation, and manufacturing. The plant also serves as an example for other Korean companies looking to invest in India.

Challenges and Opportunities in the India-South Korea Relationship

Despite the strong foundation and the positive momentum, the India-South Korea relationship faces certain challenges. These include:

• Trade Imbalance: The trade balance is currently in South Korea's favor, with India importing more goods from South Korea than it exports. Addressing this imbalance will require efforts to promote Indian exports to South Korea and to diversify the trade basket.

• Bureaucratic Hurdles: Despite efforts to streamline investment processes, bureaucratic hurdles and regulatory complexities continue to pose challenges for foreign companies operating in India. Further reforms are needed to improve the ease of doing business in India.

• Geopolitical Uncertainties: The Indo-Pacific region is facing increasing geopolitical uncertainties, including rising tensions in the South China Sea and growing rivalry between the United States and China. Navigating these challenges will require careful diplomacy and a commitment to multilateralism.

However, the opportunities for further growth and development in the India-South Korea relationship are immense. These include:

• Expanding Economic Cooperation: There is significant potential to expand economic cooperation in areas like renewable energy, biotechnology, and information technology. Both countries can also benefit from greater collaboration in infrastructure development and manufacturing.

• Strengthening Strategic Partnership: The strategic partnership can be further strengthened through increased defense cooperation, intelligence sharing, and joint efforts to address regional security challenges.

  Advertisement

• Promoting People-to-People Connections: Further efforts are needed to promote cultural exchange, educational cooperation, and tourism. This will help to deepen mutual understanding and strengthen the bonds between the two societies.

The Broader Geopolitical Context: Balancing Act in the Indo-Pacific

The deepening relationship between India and South Korea must be viewed within the broader context of the evolving geopolitical landscape in the Indo-Pacific region. The rise of China, the increasing assertiveness of its foreign policy, and the growing rivalry between the United States and China are all shaping the strategic calculations of countries in the region.

Both India and South Korea share concerns about China's growing influence and its potential impact on regional stability. They both support a rules-based international order, freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, and peaceful resolution of disputes. However, both countries also recognize the importance of maintaining stable relations with China, given its economic and political weight.

India and South Korea are both pursuing a strategy of hedging, balancing their relationships with the United States and China. They are strengthening their ties with the United States, while also engaging with China on economic and diplomatic fronts. This strategy allows them to maximize their economic and security benefits while minimizing the risks of being caught in the middle of a great power rivalry.

The India-South Korea partnership is a key element of this hedging strategy. It provides both countries with an additional avenue for cooperation and diversification, reducing their reliance on any single power. The partnership also contributes to the overall balance of power in the Indo-Pacific region, promoting stability and preventing any single country from dominating the region.

Looking Ahead: A Promising Future

The India-South Korea relationship is poised for continued growth and development in the years to come. The strong foundation, the shared interests, and the positive momentum all point to a promising future. The '3P Plus' framework provides a comprehensive roadmap for cooperation, while the 'New Southern Policy' and the 'Act East' policy create a synergistic framework for regional engagement.

The economic partnership is expected to deepen, with increased trade, investment, and technology transfer. The strategic partnership is also likely to strengthen, with greater cooperation in defense, security, and maritime affairs. The people-to-people connections will continue to grow, fostering greater understanding and goodwill between the two societies.

However, realizing the full potential of the India-South Korea relationship will require sustained effort and commitment from both sides. It will require addressing the existing challenges, seizing the emerging opportunities, and navigating the complex geopolitical landscape. It will also require a long-term vision, a strategic approach, and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances. The collaboration in Afghanistan is particularly symbolic. It demonstrates a willingness on the part of both nations to work together on complex geopolitical issues, even in volatile regions. This is significant considering the different approaches India and South Korea have traditionally taken to foreign policy, with India often emphasizing non-alignment and South Korea being more closely aligned with the United States.

The economic ties are clearly a major driver of the relationship. The 'Korea Plus' initiative is designed to streamline investment, and the presence of major South Korean companies like Samsung in India highlights the potential for mutual benefit. However, the relationship is not solely transactional. There is a growing recognition of shared strategic interests, particularly in maintaining a stable and open Indo-Pacific region. This aligns with India's vision of a multipolar Asia and South Korea's desire to diversify its strategic partnerships.

The success of this partnership will depend on several factors. Both countries will need to continue to address trade imbalances and bureaucratic hurdles that can hinder economic cooperation. They will also need to navigate the complexities of regional geopolitics, particularly the rise of China and the evolving relationship between the United States and China. The shared values and democratic principles underpinning both nations provide a strong foundation for sustained cooperation. This contrasts with the more transactional relationships that some countries have with authoritarian regimes in the region. The commitment to a rules-based international order is another key factor that unites India and South Korea, particularly in the context of maritime security and freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific.

Looking ahead, there are many areas where India and South Korea can further strengthen their cooperation. These include defense technology, renewable energy, cybersecurity, and space exploration. The '3P Plus' framework provides a useful roadmap for identifying and prioritizing these areas of collaboration. The key will be to translate these broad goals into concrete actions and tangible outcomes that benefit both countries and contribute to regional stability.

The emphasis on people-to-people exchanges is also crucial. Cultural understanding and mutual respect are essential for building trust and fostering long-term partnerships. This includes promoting student exchanges, tourism, and cultural events that showcase the rich heritage of both countries. The India-South Korea relationship is not without its challenges. Trade imbalances, bureaucratic hurdles, and geopolitical uncertainties all pose potential obstacles. However, the strong foundation, the shared interests, and the positive momentum suggest that the relationship is well-positioned for continued growth and success in the years to come. The key will be for both countries to remain committed to their shared vision of a stable, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific region.

The historical context cannot be overstated. India's role in the Korean War, despite its non-aligned stance, laid the groundwork for future cooperation. The subsequent economic liberalization in India and the rise of South Korea as a technological powerhouse created new opportunities for collaboration. The 'Look East' policy (now 'Act East') further accelerated this process.

The 'New Southern Policy' is a game-changer for South Korea, signaling a clear intention to prioritize relations with India and ASEAN. This is not just about economics; it's about diversifying strategic partnerships and playing a more active role in the Indo-Pacific. India is a natural partner in this endeavor, given its size, its economic potential, and its strategic location.

The joint project in Afghanistan, though perhaps limited in scope, is highly symbolic. It demonstrates a willingness to work together on difficult and sensitive issues, even in challenging environments. This level of trust and cooperation is rare and suggests a deep level of strategic alignment.

The inauguration of the Samsung plant in Noida is a concrete example of the economic benefits of the relationship. It represents a significant investment in India, creates jobs, and contributes to the growth of the Indian economy. It also showcases the potential for further collaboration in manufacturing and technology.

The '3P Plus' framework is a useful tool for guiding future cooperation. It provides a broad and inclusive vision that encompasses economic, social, and security dimensions. The 'Plus' is particularly important, as it signals a willingness to explore new areas of collaboration and to adapt to changing circumstances.

The geopolitical context is crucial. The rise of China, the increasing tensions in the South China Sea, and the evolving relationship between the United States and China are all shaping the strategic calculations of countries in the region. India and South Korea share concerns about these developments and are working together to promote a stable and rules-based international order.

The future of the India-South Korea relationship is bright, but it will require sustained effort and commitment from both sides. They must continue to address the challenges, seize the opportunities, and navigate the complex geopolitical landscape with wisdom and foresight. The partnership has the potential to be a major force for stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. The India-South Korea relationship, as exemplified by the events of 2019, is a complex tapestry woven from threads of historical connections, economic pragmatism, and shared strategic interests. It is a relationship that has evolved over decades, from its roots in India's humanitarian role during the Korean War to its current status as a multifaceted partnership encompassing economic, political, and security dimensions.

The '3P Plus' framework, introduced by President Moon Jae-in, provides a useful lens through which to understand the scope and ambition of this partnership. The emphasis on 'People,' 'Prosperity,' and 'Peace' highlights the interconnectedness of these three pillars and the recognition that sustainable bilateral relations must be built on a foundation of mutual understanding, economic benefit, and shared security concerns. The 'Plus' signifies the potential for further expansion and deeper engagement, reflecting the dynamic and evolving nature of the relationship.

The 'Korea Plus' initiative is a concrete example of the commitment to fostering economic cooperation. By providing a dedicated mechanism to facilitate Korean investments in India, the initiative aims to streamline processes, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and create a more attractive investment climate. The success of this initiative is evident in the increasing flow of Korean capital into India, particularly in sectors like electronics, automobiles, and infrastructure.

South Korea's 'New Southern Policy' is a strategic imperative that underscores the importance of India as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific region. The NSP reflects South Korea's desire to diversify its partnerships, reduce its reliance on traditional allies, and play a more active role in shaping the regional order. India, with its growing economic power, its strategic location, and its commitment to a rules-based international order, is a natural partner in this endeavor.

The joint project in Afghanistan, while perhaps limited in scale, is highly symbolic. It demonstrates a willingness to work together on complex and sensitive issues, even in challenging environments. This level of trust and cooperation is a testament to the deepening strategic alignment between India and South Korea.

The inauguration of the Samsung plant in Noida is a tangible example of the economic benefits of the relationship. It represents a significant investment in India, creates jobs, and contributes to the growth of the Indian economy. It also showcases the potential for further collaboration in manufacturing and technology.

However, the India-South Korea relationship is not without its challenges. Trade imbalances, bureaucratic hurdles, and geopolitical uncertainties all pose potential obstacles. Addressing these challenges will require sustained effort and commitment from both sides.

The broader geopolitical context is crucial. The rise of China, the increasing tensions in the South China Sea, and the evolving relationship between the United States and China are all shaping the strategic calculations of countries in the region. India and South Korea share concerns about these developments and are working together to promote a stable and rules-based international order.

Looking ahead, the future of the India-South Korea relationship is bright, but it will require continued effort and commitment from both sides. They must continue to address the challenges, seize the opportunities, and navigate the complex geopolitical landscape with wisdom and foresight. The partnership has the potential to be a major force for stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. The India-South Korea relationship in 2019 was a dynamic and multifaceted partnership characterized by increased economic cooperation, growing strategic alignment, and a shared vision for a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. President Moon Jae-in's visit to India served as a catalyst for strengthening these ties, with the introduction of the '3P Plus' framework and the launch of several key initiatives.

The '3P Plus' framework, encompassing 'People,' 'Prosperity,' and 'Peace,' provides a comprehensive roadmap for bilateral cooperation. The emphasis on 'People' highlights the importance of cultural exchange, educational cooperation, and people-to-people connections in fostering mutual understanding and trust. The focus on 'Prosperity' underscores the commitment to enhancing economic cooperation, trade, investment, and technology transfer. And the emphasis on 'Peace' reflects the shared interest in maintaining security, stability, and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.

The 'Korea Plus' initiative is a concrete example of the commitment to facilitating Korean investments in India. By providing a dedicated mechanism to assist Korean companies with regulatory approvals, land acquisition, and other aspects of setting up and running a business in India, the initiative aims to create a more attractive investment climate. The success of this initiative is evident in the increasing flow of Korean capital into India, particularly in sectors like electronics, automobiles, and infrastructure.

South Korea's 'New Southern Policy' is a strategic imperative that underscores the importance of India as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific region. The NSP reflects South Korea's desire to diversify its partnerships, reduce its reliance on traditional allies, and play a more active role in shaping the regional order. India, with its growing economic power, its strategic location, and its commitment to a rules-based international order, is a natural partner in this endeavor.

The joint project in Afghanistan, while perhaps limited in scale, is highly symbolic. It demonstrates a willingness to work together on complex and sensitive issues, even in challenging environments. This level of trust and cooperation is a testament to the deepening strategic alignment between India and South Korea.

The inauguration of the Samsung plant in Noida is a tangible example of the economic benefits of the relationship. It represents a significant investment in India, creates jobs, and contributes to the growth of the Indian economy. It also showcases the potential for further collaboration in manufacturing and technology.

However, the India-South Korea relationship is not without its challenges. Trade imbalances, bureaucratic hurdles, and geopolitical uncertainties all pose potential obstacles. Addressing these challenges will require sustained effort and commitment from both sides.

The broader geopolitical context is crucial. The rise of China, the increasing tensions in the South China Sea, and the evolving relationship between the United States and China are all shaping the strategic calculations of countries in the region. India and South Korea share concerns about these developments and are working together to promote a stable and rules-based international order.