President Lee: Vietnam's Leap Forward is Korea's Growth, Building Supply Chains Together

As President Lee Jae-myung concludes his state visit to Vietnam, the Republic of Korea reaffirms its commitment to a future built on mutual growth and shared prosperity. This visit, marked by the successful Korea-Vietnam Business Forum, underscores the deepening strategic partnership between our two nations. President Lee's address highlighted the critical importance of securing stable supply chains for strategic resources like crude oil and rare earths, a sentiment echoed by Vietnamese leadership. This focus is not merely economic; it is about building resilience against global economic uncertainties.

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If the two countries build solid safety nets in key strategic resource areas such as crude oil and rare earths, we can build a strong supply chain ecosystem that will not be shaken by any economic storm.

The discussions extended beyond traditional manufacturing, embracing the cutting edge of innovation. The expansion of cooperation into fields such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and digital technologies signifies a shared vision for the future. Korean companies have already established a strong foothold in Vietnam, particularly in semiconductor packaging, and this visit signals a commitment to further investment and development. The framework for cooperation in science and technology, formalized through the 'Korea-Vietnam Science and Technology Innovation Master Plan Framework,' promises to unlock new avenues for joint research and development, crucial in this era of technological competition.

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Securing resources and energy stably is the only way to guarantee the sustainability of economic growth.

The cultural resonance between our peoples was also a poignant theme. President Lee noted how shared experiences, from the global phenomenon of K-pop to the beloved Vietnamese pho becoming a staple in Korean diets, illustrate a profound connection. Cities like Da Nang have become beloved destinations for Koreans, symbolizing the deep personal ties that complement our economic and political relations. The assertion that 'Vietnam's leap forward is Korea's growth' is more than a diplomatic statement; it reflects a genuine understanding that our futures are intertwined. This perspective, celebrating shared progress and cultural exchange, is central to how we view this vital partnership, perhaps differing from a more transactional view sometimes seen in Western media.

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Our companies have steadily laid the foundation for cooperation in Vietnam, particularly in the field of semiconductor packaging, and will boldly expand investment in production facilities going forward.