by The UK and South Korea are set to sign a new long-term deal covering defense and technology cooperation as President Yoon Suk-yeol arrives for a three-day state visit.
The Downing Street deal follows similar agreements with Singapore and Japan as the UK seeks to consolidate influence in the Indo-Pacific.
Mr Yun begins his official visit on Tuesday, which will include a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and the official signing of the agreement in Downing Street on Wednesday.
Ahead of the visit, Mr Sunak highlighted the £21 billion South Korean businesses are committing to investing in the UK.
Trade and investment are expected to be the focus of the trip, with Trade Minister Kemi Badenoch launching new negotiations on an upgraded free trade agreement.
I know that a free trade agreement fit for the future will only lead to further investment, delivering on my promise to grow the economy and support high-skilled jobs
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak
The UK secured a free trade deal with South Korea in 2019, with the deal largely aimed at keeping trade flowing after Brexit and removing uncertainty.
Mr Sunak said: “Long-term global partnerships are vital to our prosperity and security, both now and in the future. As two nations focused on innovation, harnessing new technologies and championing the rules-based international order, the UK and the Republic of Korea are natural partners.
“Through our new Downing Street deal, we will promote investment, boost trade and build a friendship that not only supports global stability, but protects our interests and stands the test of time.
“These close ties have already fostered £21bn of investment between our countries.
“I know that a free trade agreement fit for the future will only lead to further investment, delivering on my promise to grow the economy and support high-skilled jobs.”
The Downing Street deal will see British and Korean militaries agree to step up joint training and operations, with the Asian nation expected to agree to join British ships in sanctions patrols.
As Downing Street said, we will also see the two countries work more closely together on technologies such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors and quantum.
The science ministers will also sign a memorandum of understanding to strengthen space cooperation.
South Korea will host next year's artificial intelligence summit after the first UK-backed gathering at Bletchley Park earlier this month.
The trip to the UK coincides with the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the UK and Korea, as well as the 70th anniversary of the armistice of the Korean War.
