Bangladesh and South Korea maintain strong, growing bilateral ties, rooted in diplomatic relations established in 1973.
Bangladesh and South Korea maintain strong, growing bilateral ties, rooted in diplomatic relations established in 1973. South Korea is a top-10 foreign investor ($1.56B FDI) in Bangladesh, with over 150 companies, primarily in ready-made garments (RMG),, and is expanding into infrastructure, electronics, and AI. A Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is under negotiation to boost trade.
Key Aspects of the Relationship:
- Investment & Economy: South Korea is a major FDI partner, with significant investment from companies like Youngone in the Korean Export Processing Zone (KEPZ) in Chattogram.
- Trade: Trade is growing, with Bangladesh exporting knitwear and importing refined petroleum and machinery from South Korea.
- Development Cooperation: South Korea is a key partner in Bangladesh's infrastructure,, and educational development, often providing support through loans and grants for projects.
- Labor & Migration: South Korea is a significant destination for Bangladeshi workers, with opportunities through the Employment Permit System (EPS).
- Diplomatic Relations: Established in 1973, with South Korea opening its mission in Dhaka in 1975 and Bangladesh in Seoul in 1987.
- Future Focus: Both nations are focusing on diversifying cooperation into AI, biotechnology, and renewable energy, as Bangladesh prepares for graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) status.
As of late 2025/early 2026, the relationship is moving from reliance on RMG to broader economic cooperation, with negotiations aiming for a comprehensive, long-term partnership.
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