Greetings! Welcome to the ASEAN-Korea Centre website.

Established in 2009 by the governments of the Republic of Korea and 10 ASEAN Member States, the ASEAN-Korea Centre (the Centre) is an intergovernmental organization mandated to expand economic and socio-cultural exchanges and cooperation between ASEAN and Korea.

Over more than 35 years, the partnership between ASEAN and the Republic of Korea (ROK) has developed into a robust and enduring relationship. Economically, ASEAN stands as ROK’s second-largest trading partner and the third-largest investment destination, and the most popular destination for Korean travelers. Since the establishment of ‘Sectoral Dialogue Relations’ in 1989, trade between the two regions has grown more than 23-fold, investment over 80-fold, and people-to-people exchanges by an extraordinary 37-fold. Approximately 715,000 ASEAN nationals now reside in the ROK, including 69,000 multicultural families, 294,000 workers, and 121,000 students, reflecting the deepening ties between ASEAN and the ROK.

This vibrant relationship was further strengthened with the elevation to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) at the 25th ASEAN-ROK Summit in 2024, marking the 35th anniversary of ASEAN-ROK Dialogue Relations. This new partnership not only highlights the progress made but also sets the stage for more strategic, comprehensive, and forward-looking collaboration. The CSP solidifies the commitment between ASEAN and ROK to work together to address emerging challenges and seize new opportunities.

This historic milestone coincided with the 15th anniversary of the ASEAN-Korea Centre (AKC). In this era of renewed cooperation, the AKC has remained steadfast in its mandate to strengthen ties and promote cooperation between ASEAN and the ROK. In addition to the Centre's flagship programs such as the ASEAN-Korea Connectivity Forum and the ASEAN-Korea Youth Network Workshop, the Centre organized a number of events through the ASEAN Week 2024 to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the ASEAN-ROK Dialogue Relations and the elevation to the CSP. In particular, the Unveiling Ceremony was held to designate the Jeju Olle Trail 8 Route, located near Jusangjeolli, a popular tourist destination in Jeju, as the “Jeju Olle Trail 8 Route: ASEAN-Korea Olle”. Additionally, an ASEAN-ROK commemorative bench and signage were unveiled. These achievements have been made possible through the unwavering support and commitment of our valued partners and stakeholders.

As we enter the ASEAN-ROK CSP era, we remain committed to expanding and deepening our programs, fostering collaborations with a diverse range of stakeholders, and facilitating dynamic exchanges. In alignment with the ASEAN-ROK Plan of Action (2021-2025) and the launch of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, the AKC will continue to explore emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI) and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. We are also dedicated to raising public awareness of ASEAN and ASEAN-ROK relations by engaging a broad audience through initiatives like the establishment of the new Seoul ASEAN Hall, located on the first floor of Korea Press Center.

The AKC is committed to achieving its goals of increasing trade and investment flows, boosting tourism, and enriching cultural and people-to-people exchanges. We look forward to your continued support and engagement in our efforts. Thank you.