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South Korea–Sri Lanka relations

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South Korea–Sri Lanka relations
Map indicating locations of South Korea and Sri Lanka

South Korea
Sri Lanka

South Korea–Sri Lanka relations refer to the bilateral diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea (South Korea) and the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. Formal diplomatic ties were established on 14 November 1977. Since then, the two countries have developed cooperative relations in trade, development, labor migration, and cultural exchange.

History

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Diplomatic relations between South Korea and Sri Lanka were officially established in 1977. Bilateral ties have gradually strengthened over the years, with high-level exchanges and growing economic cooperation.

In April 2012, South Korean President Lee Myung-bak visited Sri Lanka and held talks with President Mahinda Rajapaksa. The two leaders signed several memoranda of understanding (MOUs) to enhance cooperation in energy, infrastructure, and e-government. President Lee also recognized the contributions of over 20,000 Sri Lankan workers in Korea.[1]

In September 2023, during the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol met with Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe. South Korea pledged support for Sri Lanka’s economic recovery plan and proposed expanding employment opportunities for Sri Lankan youth, as well as cooperation on climate change.[2]

Trade relations

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Trade between South Korea and Sri Lanka has expanded, though the balance has typically favored South Korea.

In 2023, Sri Lanka exported goods worth US$76.9 million to South Korea, including:

  • Coconut and other vegetable fibers (US$8.66 million)
  • Non-knit women's suits (US$6.93 million)
  • Activated carbon (US$6.25 million)

Conversely, South Korea exported US$210 million worth of goods to Sri Lanka, including:

  • Refined petroleum (US$44.9 million)
  • Synthetic rubber (US$19.1 million)
  • Rubberized knitted fabric (US$14.4 million)[3]

Development cooperation

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Since 1987, South Korea has provided over US$900 million in official development assistance to Sri Lanka. A 2020–2022 framework agreement allowed Sri Lanka to receive up to US$500 million in soft loans from the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF). Korean institutions such as the Saemaul Foundation and the KOPIA have supported rural development programs.[4]

Sri Lankans in South Korea

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As of the early 2020s, approximately 25,000 Sri Lankans are employed in South Korea through the Employment Permit System (EPS). In 2019, remittances from Sri Lankan workers in Korea amounted to US$520 million.[4]

The EPS Center in Colombo coordinates recruitment and training with the South Korean government.

According to a 2024 report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) Asia-Pacific office, Sri Lankan migrant workers in South Korea have comparatively higher job retention and wage satisfaction compared to those in other OECD countries.[5]

Cultural relations

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Cultural exchanges have increased steadily. Hallyu, including K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean cuisine, has become popular in Sri Lanka. Korean culture festivals and language programs are held regularly in Colombo and other cities.[6]

In 2023, the Korea Foundation opened a Korean Studies program in collaboration with the University of Colombo, promoting Korean language and international studies.[7]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "Lee vows to help boost ties with Sri Lanka". The Korea Times. 24 April 2012. Retrieved 11 April 2025.
  2. ^ "South Korea pledges its support for Sri Lanka's economic recovery". President's Office of Sri Lanka. 19 September 2023. Retrieved 11 April 2025.
  3. ^ "Sri Lanka (LKA) and South Korea (KOR) Trade". Observatory of Economic Complexity. Retrieved 11 April 2025.
  4. ^ a b "Sri Lankans in Korea: An asset to strengthen economic and commercial ties - Korean envoy". Sunday Observer. 1 January 2023. Retrieved 11 April 2025.
  5. ^ "Sri Lankan migrant workers in OECD countries". International Labour Organization. 12 January 2024. Retrieved 11 April 2025.
  6. ^ "Korea and Sri Lanka mark 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations". Lanka Business Online. 16 November 2022. Retrieved 11 April 2025.
  7. ^ "KF to launch Korean Studies program in Sri Lanka". Yonhap News Agency. 23 November 2023. Retrieved 11 April 2025.
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