In a statement transmitted to Moroccan authorities, notably to the Kingdom’s embassy in Seoul, South Korea commends the credibility and seriousness of Morocco’s efforts, in line with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions, including Resolution 1754. This diplomatic gesture, far from trivial, confirms the growing support around the Moroccan position as the world becomes increasingly aware of the relevance and fairness of the Kingdom’s approach.
An Implicit Support for Moroccan Sovereignty
By acknowledging the autonomy plan, Seoul departs from its traditional stance of cautious neutrality and initiates a shift that could eventually align with the numerous nations recognizing Morocco’s sovereignty over its Sahara. This evolution occurs within a context of expanding bilateral cooperation, where Morocco asserts itself as a strategic partner on the African continent.
The Republic of Korea has consistently avoided granting any legitimacy to separatist entities, notably by refraining from inviting the Polisario armed group to meetings held with the African Union. Today, by valuing the Moroccan approach, Seoul sends a strong message: it intends to build a partnership based on mutual respect and a deep understanding of the Kingdom’s strategic priorities.
A Promising Economic Alliance
This major political advancement comes as economic relations between Rabat and Seoul experience unprecedented growth. The awarding by the ONCF (Moroccan National Railways Office), on February 26, of a historic €1.5 billion contract to Hyundai Rotem for the supply of 110 intercity trains symbolizes this strategic turning point. It is the most significant international contract secured by a Korean operator and a testament to the mutual trust between the two nations.
The impact of this partnership was such that the acting President of the Republic of Korea, Choi Sang-Mok, personally extended his gratitude to His Majesty King Mohammed VI, expressing in an official letter his appreciation for the confidence placed in the Korean industry.
High-Level Diplomatic Dialogue
Since early 2024, high-level visits have multiplied, confirming a shared desire to consolidate a comprehensive strategic partnership. The President of the Korean National Assembly, Kim Jin-pyo, the Minister of Land Management, Park Sang-woo, and the CEO of the Korean Import-Export Bank, Yoon Hee-sung, have all visited Morocco. On the Moroccan side, the Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, made a notable visit to Seoul in April 2025, highlighting the vitality of a fruitful bilateral dialogue.
In this positive dynamic, the Republic of Korea aims to conclude an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with Morocco, including a free trade treaty to further stimulate investments and trade exchanges, which, although modest, are steadily increasing.
Morocco: A Central African Player in Korea’s Strategy
For Seoul, Morocco is no longer just a commercial partner; it is now perceived as a structuring regional power—stable, visionary, and connected to major African issues. Korean Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun clearly stated: Morocco is Korea’s 8th African partner, but its role goes far beyond numbers—it is a leading geopolitical and economic lever.