Written by: Arvid William Olink
Supervised by: Elise Alsteens
Edited by: Theodora Posta
Abstract:
The EU–ROK strategic partnership deepened significantly under President Yoon Suk Yeo’s value-based diplomacy, particularly in the wake of the 2022 Russia–Ukraine War. However, following Yoon’s impeachment in 2025, it is uncertain whether the trend towards closer cooperation will continue under his successor Lee Jae-myung as he seeks to pursue a pragmatic-based diplomacy instead. This, moreover, includes the aim of recalibrating the ROK’s ties with Moscow, Beijing, and Pyongyang, which can conflict with the EU’s approach to Russia and potentially undermine deeper security cooperation. However, I will argue that structural realities are likely to continue to drive Seoul closer to the EU. The EU will remain an especially attractive partner because of its shared democratic values with South Korea, despite a proclaimed shift towards pragmatic diplomacy. The momentum towards closer cooperation, however, is expected to slow down under Lee, as he seeks to avoid provoking Beijing and Moscow, but the overall direction towards closer cooperation remains persistent.
