Date : 03/01/2024

Relevance: GS Paper 2 – International Relations

Keywords: Shared vision, HADR, Cyber Security, Maritime Security

Context-

In the intricate mosaic of global geopolitics, the foundation of international peace and stability lies in robust defence collaboration. The recent diplomatic overture during General Manoj Pande's visit, Chief of the Army Staff of India, to the Republic of Korea (South Korea) in November 2023, marks a critical juncture in the trajectory of India-Korea defence relations. This visit strengthened diplomatic ties while also unveiling challenges that demand meticulous consideration.

A Glimpse of India - South Korea Relations

• The historical ties between India and South Korea have deep roots, dating back to the 13th century when Princess Suriratna from Ayodhya married King Kim-Suro of the Gaya Confederacy in Korea. This union is documented in the 13th-century Korean historical text "SamgukYusa" or “Heritage History of the Three Kingdoms”. Scholars suggest that Buddhism may have reached Korea through this connection, with the arrival of Princess Suriratna and her brother Monk Jangyu.
• The literary connection is also significant, with Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore composing the poem 'Lamp of the East’ in 1929, reflecting on Korea's past and future.
• Political ties strengthened after Korea's independence in 1945, with Indian diplomat Shri K P S Menon playing a crucial role in the UN Commission overseeing elections in Korea in 1947. In 2018, both nations articulated their shared goals through a joint statement, emphasizing people, prosperity, peace, and the future.
• Diplomatic relations were formalized in 1973, following the establishment of consular relations in 1962. The economic partnership reached a milestone in 2010 with the formation of a "Strategic Partnership," later elevated to a "Special Strategic Partnership" in 2015. The "Korea Plus" initiative aims to facilitate Korean investments in India.
• Bilateral trade surged to a record $27.8 billion in 2022, with India importing goods worth $18.8 billion and exporting goods worth $9 billion. In 2020, a Roadmap for Defence Industries Cooperation was signed, solidifying defense collaboration.
• Cultural exchanges flourished with the establishment of the Indian Cultural Centre in Seoul in 2011, showcasing India’s rich heritage. These multifaceted relations underscore the strong and dynamic connection between India and South Korea.

Challenges and Opportunities:

• Absence of a Shared Vision:
  Despite recent high-level engagements, a significant challenge persists—the absence of a shared vision for a new comprehensive defence framework. A robust structure is needed to guide both nations in aligning their policies for a sustainable emerging regional order. The imperative is to transcend bilateral cooperation and embrace a paradigm shift that fosters a deeper understanding of their roles in the global context.
• Korean Perception of India’s Regional Role:
  A hurdle lies in Korea's resistance to reassess India's role in the region. It is crucial for Korea to acknowledge India as a regional power capable of substantial contributions to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. Shifting away from Cold War mentalities is essential for forging a deeper partnership. This paradigm shift in Korean strategic thinking is indispensable for meaningful engagement.
• Focus on Weapons Acquisition and Technology Transfer:
  The overemphasis by the Indian government on weapons acquisition and technology transfer from Korea, while pivotal, may overshadow broader strategic considerations. Similarly, the profit-driven focus of the Korean defence establishment on weapons sales to India without strategic foresight could be shortsighted. Balancing long-term strategic goals over short-term gains is imperative, especially considering powerful arms lobbies in both nations.
• Emerging Coalition Challenges:
  The emerging coalition of North Korea, China, and Russia poses a new serious challenge. Divergent stances may arise, necessitating a nuanced appraisal of each party’s strategic imperatives. High-level interactions between Gen. Pande and top Korean military leadership are anticipated to unite the defence communities, fostering better understanding and cooperation.

Opportunities for Collaboration:

• Technological Collaborations:
  Leveraging their technological capabilities, India and South Korea are aiming to collaborate in developing advanced defence systems and equipment. The potential for cooperation in the defence technology and industry sector is limitless, propelling both countries to the forefront of innovation and self-reliance. In an era of space warfare, information warfare, and cybersecurity, there are vast opportunities for cooperation.
• Countering Terrorism and Maritime Security:
  Strengthening coordinated efforts to counter terrorism aligns with shared concerns. Collaboration in maritime security, including joint patrolling and information sharing, can address the significant maritime interests both countries have in the Indian Ocean. Joint efforts in these areas contribute to the overall security of critical infrastructure and information.
• Peacekeeping and Exercises:
  Both nations can leverage their United Nations peacekeeping expertise for collaborative efforts. Sharing insights and resources in peacekeeping operations can enhance regional and global stability, emphasizing their joint commitment to peace and security. Additionally, joint exercises and the exchange of best practices in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) demonstrate shared responsibility in addressing vulnerabilities to natural disasters.
• Joint Army Exercises and Interoperability:
  Mutual growth is found in enhancing joint army exercises, fostering interoperability, and strengthening the capabilities of both armies. Gen. Pande’s visit has spurred the extension of cooperation beyond naval focus to other branches of India’s armed forces, broadening the scope of collaboration.

Conclusion

While the recent visit of Gen. Pande has reignited the flame of India-Korea defence cooperation, the path forward necessitates meticulous navigation through challenges and the wholehearted embrace of opportunities. A strategic, balanced approach, coupled with adaptability to the evolving geopolitical landscape, is key to unlocking a robust and enduring defence collaboration. In turn, this collaboration creates a partnership that fosters peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. United, both nations stand ready to navigate the complexities and uncertainties of the future, forging a path toward a stronger and more resilient partnership. The commitment to strategic alignment and shared vision will undoubtedly contribute to the preservation of international peace and stability in the evolving global scenario.

Source- ORF