This high-profile event marks a major step forward in building a deeper, more prosperous partnership.

Elevating the Partnership

The Forum is the first major gathering of journalists since the establishment of the ASEAN-ROK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) last year (Oct. 2024)—the highest level of engagement. This meeting confirms the commitment from both sides to make this partnership meaningful, substantive, and mutually beneficial.

Korea's Commitment: President Lee Jae Myung has reaffirmed Korea's dedication to being a "Contributor to ASEAN’s dreams and aspirations," a "Springboard for growth and innovation," and a "Partner for peace and stability."

K-Culture as a Bridge

One of the Forum’s key themes is "The Future of ASEAN-Korea Cultural Exchange: K-Culture as a Bridge." By holding the event in Jeju—a place celebrated globally as the backdrop for beloved K-Dramas like "When Life Gives You Tangerines"—the forum is celebrating the immense power of culture to connect people.

People-to-People Flow is Booming: Exchange is thriving

Last year saw a remarkable 9.6 million Koreans visit ASEAN and 2.5 million ASEAN nationals travel to Korea, proving the deep closeness between the peoples of both regions.

Economic Ties are Robust:

ASEAN is now Korea’s second-largest export market after China, showcasing a powerful and growing economic relationship that benefits all nations involved.

 Future Investment: The large presence of ASEAN students and foreign residents in Korea (with 42% of international students coming from ASEAN) highlights a commitment to future collaboration, knowledge sharing, and talent development.

Building Media Networks:

The Forum is the centerpiece of the 'ASEAN Journalists Invitation Programme' (Nov 11-15), which brings 20 journalists from the 10 ASEAN Member States to the Republic of Korea.

This program is designed to create a strong media network, ensuring that the positive stories of ASEAN-Korea cooperation are shared widely, fostering greater mutual understanding and friendship across both regions.

The ASEAN-Korea Media Forum is a powerful affirmation that the relationship between ASEAN and Korea is stronger than ever, driven by a commitment to strategic cooperation, booming economic exchange, and shared cultural prosperity.

KPL