South Korea Pledges Support for Philippines’ 2026 ASEAN Chairship
MANILA – South Korean President Lee Jae-myung affirmed his country’s support for the Philippines as it takes on the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026. The commitment came during a bilateral meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. At Malacañan Palace on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, according to the Yonhap News Agency .
Synergizing ASEAN Agendas
President Lee stated that both nations agreed to align the Philippines’ ASEAN agenda with Korea’s strategic visions for the region. The Philippines’ 2026 ASEAN agenda focuses on Peace and Security, Prosperity Corridors, and People Empowerment. South Korea’s strategic vision centers on contributing to regional peace, stability, growth, and innovation .
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Lee reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to enhanced ties with the Philippines, emphasizing the historic bonds and robust cooperation between the two countries. He also highlighted the importance of increased people-to-people and cultural exchanges .
Tourism and Labor
In 2025, approximately 1.35 million South Korean nationals visited the Philippines, while 610,000 Filipinos traveled to South Korea – the highest number of visitors from an Asian nation . President Marcos expressed gratitude for South Korea’s protection of the rights and welfare of over 70,000 Filipinos living and working in South Korea .
Broader Cooperation
The meeting between the two presidents builds upon a strategic partnership formalized in October 2024. South Korea is a dialogue partner of ASEAN and actively supports initiatives in trade, cultural exchange, and regional security. The two leaders previously met on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in late October . President Lee and President Marcos also agreed to expand bilateral economic cooperation in areas including artificial intelligence (AI), the defense industry, nuclear energy and critical minerals .
The Philippines and South Korea established diplomatic relations on March 3, 1949 .