South Korea and France have agreed to strengthen cooperation in defense, security, military technology and strategic industries following talks between South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris.
The two countries signed several agreements aimed at improving collaboration in national defense, defense industries and the protection of sensitive military information. Lee said both sides wanted to make practical progress in responding to growing uncertainties in the international system.
South Korea and France also agreed to upgrade an existing military information-sharing agreement and work toward signing a separate deal on mutual military logistics support. They further plan to develop joint projects combining French technological expertise with South Korea’s manufacturing strength.
Economic cooperation was another major focus. Lee said the countries aim to increase annual bilateral trade to $20 billion by 2030. They also agreed to expand collaboration in artificial intelligence, quantum technology, semiconductors and nuclear energy, including joint research and development.
The two governments will also cooperate on next-generation nuclear reactors, supply-chain diversification and civilian nuclear energy. Samsung Electronics has already partnered with French AI startup Mistral AI to improve its semiconductor operations.
Macron described 2026 as an important year for relations between the two countries as they celebrate 140 years of diplomatic ties. He emphasized their shared commitment to democracy, human rights, international law and free trade.
Both leaders stressed the importance of maintaining national sovereignty and strategic independence amid major changes in global politics. Macron also said France would continue supporting peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.
Their discussions also covered international security issues, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Macron and Lee expressed support for freedom of navigation and agreed to continue working toward solutions that could help reopen the strategic waterway.
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