KOREA DIGEST
Korea Digest is a monthly publication of the Korea Centre, School of International Relations and Politics, Mahatma Gandhi University, that compiles major political, security, economic and diplomatic developments in the Korean Peninsula. Korea Digest aims to track, highlight and provide brief analysis of important developments in the Korean Peninsula for the Indian audience.
Korea Digest No. 12, June 2024
Contents
1. South Korea-Africa Summit: Seoul’s Outreach to Africa
2. United States B-1B bomber holds joint bombing drills in South Korea
3. President Yoon Suk Yeoul visited Central Asian nations for enhanced cooperation
4. Heightened Tensions in the Korean Peninsula Amidst North Korean Belligerence
5. Korea and Cuba hold 1st diplomatic talks since the formation of bilateral ties
6. Korea dismissed Japan’s protest over maritime survey near Dokdo
7. Korea’s KTX makes first overseas export deal with Uzbekistan
8. Russian President Vladimir Putin Visited North Korea for the first time in 24 years
9. South Korea and China held bilateral strategic talks amid Putin’s visit to North Korea
10. Yoon declared demographic emergency in Korea as the birthrate fall continues
11. Korea, Romania set to sign $920M artillery export deal
12. KAI signed a deal with Polish aviation plant to maintain Korean-made FA-50 fighters
13. Fourth round of USFK cost-sharing talks wrap up in Seoul
14. Seoul imposed sanctions on North Korean and Russian entities, ships and individuals
Prepared by
Mohammed Unais AV, Project Fellow, Korea Centre
1. South Korea-Africa Summit: Seoul’s Outreach to Africa
The first-ever Korea-Africa Summit took place in Seoul on June 4-5, 2024, with a focus on fostering cooperation under the theme “The future we create together: Shared growth, sustainability, and solidarity.” South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol inaugurated the event, which saw participation from 48 African delegates, including 25 leaders and representatives from the African Development Bank (AfDB). According to the statement, the summit emphasised the unique nature of the Korea-Africapartnership, the necessity for a new strategic cooperation based on mutual trust and solidarity,
and the significance of holding future Korea-Africa summits. During the summit, both sides used the opportunity to establish a platform for strengthening strategic cooperation. Key areas of focus included securing supply chains for critical minerals, development assistance, infrastructure projects, and boosting trade and investment. One of the major outcomes of the summit was the agreement to double South Korea’s official development assistance (ODA) to Africa to $10 billion by 2030. Additionally, Korea committed to providing $14 billion in export financing to support Korean companies in expanding trade and investment across Africa. In his opening speech, President Yoon pledged active support for Africa’s regional economic integration efforts through the African Continental Free Trade Area(AfCFTA). On the sidelines of the summit, South Korea sought to expand diplomatic ties with African nations. President Yoon held bilateral meetings with various heads of state attending the event.The summit concluded with the signing of 12 agreements and 34 memorandums of understanding (MOUs) to enhance cooperation in areas such as economy and infrastructure.
2. United States B-1B bomber holds joint bombing drills in South Korea
On June 5, 2024, the United States deployed a B-1B bomber to participate in a joint bombing exercise with South Korea, marking the first such collaboration in seven years. This move comes amid heightened tensions following North Korea’s recent campaign of sending trash filled balloons and conducting GPS jamming attacks in late May.During the exercise, the U.S. bomber, escorted by South Korean F-15K fighter jets, dropped joint direct attack munitions within an unspecified firing range, according to the South Korean Defense Ministry. The last deployment of U.S. B-1B bombers for such exercises in South Korea occurred in 2017. The exercise, conducted under close U.S.-South Korea coordination, aimed to reaffirm the U.S. extended defence commitment and bolster the joint defence posture. South Korean F-15K fighter jets participated in the live-fire exercise, showcasing a robust integrated defence stance against North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats. Additionally, the U.S. bomber engaged in joint air exercises with South Korean F-35A and KF16 fighters and U.S. F-35B and F-16 jets. The exact number of B-1B bombers involved in the exercise was not disclosed. This show of force by the allies follows North Korea’s provocative actions, including the release of nearly 1,000 garbage-laden balloons towards the South since May 28.
3. President Yoon Suk Yeoul visited Central Asian nations for enhanced cooperation
South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol embarked on a significant three-nation tour of Central Asia starting on June 10, 2024, aiming to bolster diplomatic relations and collaborate on energy and mineral resources. During his week-long trip, Yoon visited Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, focusing on enhancing supply chain cooperation with these resource-abundant nations as part of his “K-Silk Road” initiative. This diplomatic effort comes in response to global supply chain uncertainties, emphasizing the need to secure critical minerals and energy supplies.In Turkmenistan, Yoon met with President Serdar Berdimuhamed, where they agreed to expand collaboration on large-scale energy and infrastructure projects and support Seoul’s strategies in Central Asia. They issued a joint statement affirming their commitment to the “K-Silk Road Cooperation” initiative. The visit resulted in the signing of critical mineral supply chain partnerships with each country. Additionally, South Korean companies finalized significant infrastructure agreements, including a $200 million contract to supply six high-speed trains to Uzbekistan Railways Corporation.
4. Heightened Tensions in the Korean Peninsula Amidst North Korean Belligerence
In June 2024, tensions on the Korean Peninsula intensified as North Korea increased its provocative military activities. On June 2, North Korea launched around 720 balloons filled with trash into South Korea, according to the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). These balloons, which previously had been sent a week earlier, crossed the inter-Korean border and landed in South Korea by 8 p.m. Another report indicated that 20 to 50 balloons per hour descended on Seoul, Gyeonggi, North Chungcheong, and North Gyeongsang, with an additional 260 balloons carrying trash and excrement landing in southern South Korea in subsequent days. On July 9, North Korean troops briefly crossed the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) but retreated after South Korean forces fired warning shots, as stated by the JCS. South Korean military authorities deemed the incursion accidental, however, similar to an incident on June 9 when 20 to 30 North Korean soldiers crossed the MDL but returned after warnings. Another crossing occurred on June 20, prompting an investigation by the UN Command (UNC) into these breaches within the demilitarised zone. On July 26, North Korea launched a ballistic missile into the East Sea, which the South Korean military reported as a failure. The JCS noted that the missile, fired from the Pyongyang region at around 5:30 a.m., likely failed. South Korean and US intelligence are analyzing the launch, speculating it might have been a test of a hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) with a solid-fuel engine. In contrast, North Korea declared the test successful, claiming it demonstrated the capability of multiple warheads, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). However, on June 28, the South Korean military released footage showing a mid-air explosion of the missile, contradicting North Korea’s claim.
5. Korea and Cuba hold 1st diplomatic talks since the formation of bilateral ties
Senior diplomats from Korea and Cuba convened on June 12 for their first discussions since formalising diplomatic relations earlier this year, according to Seoul’s foreign ministry. Deputy Foreign Minister Chung Byung Won met with Carlos Miguel Pereira Hernandez, the Director General of Bilateral Affairs at Cuba’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in Seoul to deliberate on bilateral ties and the creation of mutual diplomatic missions. The ministry highlighted that both sides recognised the establishment of diplomatic relations as a significant milestone, committing to joint efforts to enhance cooperation across various sectors. Notably, they agreed to set up diplomatic missions in each other’s countries promptly, laying the groundwork for stronger bilateral ties.
6. Korea dismissed Japan’s protest over maritime survey near Dokdo Island
On June 7, 2024, South Korea’s Foreign Ministry dismissed Japan’s latest protest over a routine maritime survey near the Dokdo islets, asserting that the activity was lawful. Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had lodged the complaint on June 6 through diplomatic and embassy channels, with the Korea Hydrographic and Oceanographic Agency demanding an immediate halt to marine surveys around the island’s reefs. Japan contended that Seoul had not obtained prior approval for the survey. In response, South Korea’s Foreign Ministry maintained that the maritime survey was a legitimate operation, emphasizing that Dokdo is historically and geographically South Korean territory under international law. The ministry further stated that the South Korean government cannot accept Japan’s objections to actions conducted in line with international law and domestic regulations, rejecting Japan’s claims through diplomatic channels. The Dokdo islets have long been a point of contention between the two nations, with Japan continuing to assert its sovereignty over the area in policy papers, public statements, and school textbooks. Tokyo frequently protests whenever Seoul carries out regular ocean surveys.
7. Korea’s KTX makes first overseas export deal with Uzbekistan
During President Yoon Suk Yeol’s tour of Central Asia, a landmark state visit to Uzbekistan led to the signing of the first export contract for Korea’s high-speed rail, the Korea Train Express (KTX). On June 14, the two nations inked a KRW 270 billion agreement with Uzbekistan Railways to supply and maintain high-speed electrical multiple unit (HEMU) trains. This deal, facilitated through a public-private partnership involving Hyundai Rotem and the state-run Korea Railroad Corporation, marks Uzbekistan as the inaugural export destination for Korea’s high-speed rail technology. The signing ceremony in Tashkent was attended by President Yoon and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Under the contract, Korea will provide 42 HEMU trains, each capable of speeds up to 250 km/hr,along with 42 months of maintenance, repair, and technology transfer. These trains will service a 1,216 km route in Uzbekistan, covering Tashkent-Bukhara (590 km), the planned Bukhara Khiva (430 km), and Miskin-Nukus (196 km) routes. This project aims to enhance transportation efficiency and infrastructure using electric multiple units. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of KTX, this deal signifies its entry into the global high-speed rail market. President Yoon highlighted that this first export of high-speed rail vehicles developed with Korean technology will bolster Uzbekistan’s rail infrastructure and foster bilateral cooperation in the rail sector, including high-speed train operations.
8. Russian President Vladimir Putin Visited North Korea for the first time in 24 years
On June 18, 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Pyongyang for a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, marking his first visit to the country in 24 years. This visit underscores the significance Putin places on his relationship with Kim amid Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. The meeting, which occurred less than 10 months after their last encounter at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia, featured elaborate ceremonies including a personal airport reception, a welcome ceremony, a car parade at Kim Il-sung Square, and mass chanting in Putin’s honor. The summit highlights a growing strategic alignment between Russia and North Korea against the United States and its allies. Unlike their previous summit, which concluded without any agreements, this meeting resulted in several troubling outcomes for Washington and Seoul. Both leaders expressed their intent to continue arms cooperation despite warnings from the recent G7 summit in Italy. Kim voiced strong support for Russia’s actions, including the war in Ukraine, and Putin indicated Russia’s openness to developing military-technical cooperation with North Korea. They also discussed establishing alternative trade mechanisms and signed a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” agreement, reminiscent of their Cold War alliance, which promises mutual aid if either nation is attacked.The new military accord stipulates that if either country goes to war, the other will provide military and other assistance. Analysts believe this signals the formation of a full military alliance based on mutual opposition to the United States and the Western liberal order, rather than shared ideology. The agreement is seen as a long-term commitment rather than a short term tactical move. This renewed alliance between Russia and North Korea poses the most significant threat to the U.S. since the Korean War. It has clear implications for European security, given the munitions and missiles Russia uses in the conflict. The alliance affects not only the Korean Peninsula but also U.S. homeland security. If Kim demands advanced nuclear and missile technology in exchange for ammunition, Putin might be compelled to comply, potentially enabling North Korea to field a nuclear-armed force capable of evading U.S. defenses. This development would complicate the security landscape and add to the existing security challenges on the Korean Peninsula.
9. South Korea and China held bilateral strategic talks amid Putin’s visit to North Korea
On June 18, 2024, amid Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea, South Korea and China held high-level strategic discussions in Seoul. The Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue, organized in a two-plus-two format involving the Foreign and Defense Ministries of both nations, took place at South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This marked the first such talks in nine years, with the discussions elevated from director general to vice-ministerial level. Representing South Korea were Vice Foreign Minister Kim Hong-kyun and Director General of the International Policy Bureau of the Ministry of National Defense Lee Seung-buh, while China was represented by Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Sun Weidong and Deputy Director of the Central Military Commission Office for International Military Cooperation Zhang Baok. The dialogue covered a range of topics, including bilateral relations, Korean Peninsula issues, and broader regional and global concerns. The talks coincided with Putin’s visit to Pyongyang, amidst speculations of subtle tensions between North Korea and China despite their 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties. This may have influenced China’s decision not to reschedule the talks with South Korea. According to South Korea’s foreign ministry, the dialogue followed discussions between President Yoon Suk-yeol and Chinese Premier Li Qiang during the Korea-Japan-China Trilateral Summit, aiming to enhance diplomatic and security communication channels. China confirmed that the talks were independent of the North Korea- Russia summit and focused on improving bilateral relations with South Korea.
10. Yoon declared a demographic emergency in Korea as the birthrate fall continues
President Yoon Suk-yeol declared a “national demographic emergency” on Wednesday, June 19, addressing South Korea’s critical low birth rate issue. Speaking at the Presidential Committee on Aging Society and Population Policy meeting at the HD Hyundai R&D Centre in Seongnam, Gyeonggi, Yoon announced an intergovernmental all-out response system to tackle the crisis. South Korea’s total fertility rate hit a record low of 0.76 in the first quarter of the year, significantly below the OECD average and far short of the 2.1 births per woman needed to maintain the population at 51 million. Projections indicate the birth rate may drop further to 0.68 this year. Yoon emphasised that the population crisis is the country’s most fundamental challenge. National Media reports highlighted Yoon’s focus on improving work-family balance, childcare, and housing accessibility. To reduce financial strain on parents and enhance childcare leave, the government plans to raise parental leave pay from 1.5 million won to 2.5 million won per month for the first three months. Additionally, efforts are underway to increase the paternity leave rate from 6.8 percent to 50 percent within five years, and to double paternity leave from 10 to 20 days. Other initiatives include promoting flexible working hours and increasing subsidies for employers who hire temporary replacements for employees on parental leave.
11. South Korea and Romania set to sign $920M artillery export deal
Korea is finalising a $920 million deal with Romania to export K9 self-propelled howitzers following a defence ministerial meeting. According to the Seoul Defence Ministry, Romanian Defence Minister Angel Tilver confirmed the purchase during a June 19 meeting with South Korean Defence Minister Shin Won-sik, who is touring Eastern Europe. Romania’s $920 million contract includes 54 K9 howitzers and 36 K10 ammunition resupply vehicles from South Korean manufacturer Hanwha Aerospace. This deal marks Romania’s largest weapons acquisition in seven years, following an April summit between President Eun Suk Yeol and Romanian President Klaus Iohannis in Seoul. Romania will become Korea’s ninth export destination and the tenth operator of Korea’s modern artillery system, following Poland’s recent K9 acquisition. The agreement comes amid increased military activity in Eastern Europe due to Russia’s war in Ukraine. Korea’s K9 howitzer, developed domestically, holds nearly half of the global artillery market share, topping the list of medium-calibre self-propelled howitzers worldwide with a 36 per cent market share, according to a 2023 Korea Defence Industry Association report. The K9’s global success is attributed to technological advancements and competitive pricing, costing 4 billion won, half the price of rivals like Germany’s PzH-2000. Analysts emphasise the effectiveness of Korea’s export strategy, which addresses the specific needs of target countries. Defence Minister Shin stated that Romania has committed to making South Korea its key partner in military modernisation, expecting comprehensive cooperation beyond arms sales, including joint production, cross-training, and personnel exchanges.
12. KAI signed a deal with a Polish aviation plant to maintain Korean-made FA-50 fighters
Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has secured a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) contract with Polish defence firm WZL-2 to support the FA-50 fighter jets sold to Poland. Announced on June 25, this agreement follows Poland’s $12.3 billion procurement of 48 FA50 aircraft in response to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Last year, KAI delivered 12 FA-50s to Poland, establishing a local office to manage transport and reassembly. The new contract guarantees the Polish Air Force will have sustained operational support for the FA-50s over their 30 to 40-year lifespan, including supply, maintenance, and technical assistance for consistent combat readiness. Additionally, KAI is preparing a performance-based logistics contract with the Polish Air Force and local companies, aiming to bolster WZL-2 as a key support hub and enhance KAI’s European market presence. The signing ceremony at Mazowiecki Military Air Base was attended by senior officials from both nations, including Korean Deputy Defence Minister Sung Il, Defence Acquisition Program Administration chief Seok Jong-gun, KAI CS Centre Director Lee Sang-jae, and WZL-2 Acting President Darius
Sokolsky. Lee emphasised the ongoing commitment to strengthening defence industry cooperation between Korea and Poland.
13. Fourth round of USFK cost-sharing talks wrap up in Seoul
South Korea and the United States concluded a fourth round of negotiations on June 27 to determine South Korea’s financial contribution towards the stationing of U.S. troops in the country, according to Korean national media. Following three days of discussions in Seoul, both sides described the talks as “productive” and committed to continue working towards an agreement that would bolster their strong alliance. A South Korean foreign ministry official noted that the discussions helped to broaden mutual understanding and expand common ground on key issues, as reported by The Korea Times. Linda Specht, the U.S. lead negotiator from the State Department, emphasized the goal of reaching a “mutually acceptable” agreement. In a statement from the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, Specht said the talks were productive and aimed at supporting the shared security interests of both nations. The negotiations, which began in April, aim to renew the Special Measures Agreement (SMA) amid concerns that a delay could lead to tougher negotiations if former U.S. President Donald Trump returns to office. During Trump’s presidency, the U.S. had demanded a substantial increase in South Korea’s payments to $5 billion. The current six-year SMA is set to expire at the end of next year. South Korea seeks a reasonable contribution to ensure a stable environment for U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) and to strengthen the allies’ integrated defense posture. Since 1991, South Korea has partially shared the costs for USFK personnel, including the construction of military facilities and other logistical support.
14. Seoul imposed sanctions on North Korean and Russian entities, ships and individuals
On June 27, South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced new sanctions targeting five entities, four ships, and eight individuals involved in arms smuggling and importing refined oil into North Korea. Among those sanctioned is North Korea’s Missile Administration, which manages the country’s nuclear weapons and missiles and was established in April 2016. This comes after North Korea’s recent failed missile launch, as reported by its Joint Chiefs of Staff. The other sanctioned entities include Russian shipping companies Transmorflot LLC, M Leasing LLC, IBEX Shipping Inc., and Euromarket, a firm based in South Ossetia, Georgia. These companies and ships were implicated in transporting large amounts of containers and military supplies between Russia and North Korea, with Euromarket also selling Russian refined oil to Pyongyang. The four sanctioned Russian ships—Patriot, Neptune, Bella, and Bogatyr—were involved in supplying oil to North Korea, violating UN Security Council resolutions. South Korea’s Foreign Ministry stated that the sanctions aim to address North Korea’s continued military cooperation with Russia, which contravenes UN Security Council
resolutions and threatens South Korea’s security interests under the Comprehensive Strategic
Partnership Agreement.
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