Seoul, 30 January 2026 – A conference focused on bolstering trade links between Central Asia and the Republic of Korea took place in Seoul, hosted by the C5 embassies and the C5 Secretariat. The event, titled “Trade Facilitation between Central Asia and the Republic of Korea,” aimed to identify opportunities for increased economic cooperation.
The C5 initiative, encompassing Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, has increasingly focused on attracting foreign investment and diversifying trade partnerships. Recent discussions between Kazakhstan and South Korea, as highlighted by the Caspian Post, indicate a mutual desire to strengthen bilateral ties, with a particular emphasis on economic collaboration. Kazakhstan’s Republic Day was also recently commemorated with a roundtable in Seoul, further signaling the importance of the relationship.
The Seoul conference follows a period of growing engagement between South Korea and the nations of Central Asia. Uzbekistan, in particular, has positioned itself as a key partner for both Japan and South Korea, according to Modern Diplomacy, as it pursues economic reforms under its “New Uzbekistan” strategy. This strategy seeks to modernize the country’s economy and improve its investment climate.
Participants at the Seoul event discussed potential areas for collaboration, including infrastructure development, renewable energy, and digital technologies. The Korea Herald reported that the C5 embassies and secretariat are actively promoting tourism to Central Asia, a sector identified as having significant growth potential. Specific details regarding trade agreements or investment commitments made during the conference were not immediately available.
The event underscores South Korea’s increasing interest in Central Asia as a strategic economic region. Kazakhstan, as a major player in the region, has been actively seeking to enhance its economic ties with South Korea, with discussions focusing on expanding cooperation in various sectors. Further meetings between representatives from the C5 nations and South Korean officials are scheduled for the coming months to continue discussions and explore concrete projects.
