South Korea and Turkey pledge tighter nuclear and defence partnership in Seoul summit

What Happened

South Korea and Turkey agreed on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, to deepen cooperation in nuclear energy and defence during a summit in Seoul. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and President Lee Jae Myung signed new documents on nuclear energy, building on a November 2025 memorandum of understanding that set the stage for South Korean involvement in Turkey’s planned Sinop nuclear power plant. Lee said the Sinop project is progressing smoothly and a fresh memorandum on financing was also signed to help South Korean firms take part.

Reaction

Erdogan highlighted Turkey’s interest in South Korean expertise in semiconductors and other high‑tech fields, calling defence a sector where the strategic partnership has already produced tangible results. He urged both sides to increase the number of successful joint projects. Lee added that the two countries will expand joint production, share technology and look for ways to enter third‑country markets together, though he gave no specific details.

Context

The two nations have enjoyed a free‑trade agreement since 2013, and bilateral trade hit a record $10.7 billion last year. Strengthening ties in nuclear power and defence reflects both countries’ aim to diversify partnerships and boost high‑value industries.