South Korea, Kazakhstan Discuss CEPA but Reach Agreements Mainly on Energy Supplies and Infrastructure Support

South Korea and Kazakhstan discussed a potential comprehensive economic partnership agreement and agreed to strengthen energy cooperation, including crude oil supplies, during the 11th Korea-Kazakhstan joint committee meeting held in Astana on June 8.

Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan represented South Korea, while Yersaiyn Nagaspayev represented Kazakhstan at the session convened by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources. The two sides also agreed to expand support for Korean automotive, electronics and plant companies operating in Kazakhstan and to assist Kazakhstan in building power infrastructure and upgrading aging plants.

Kim and Nagaspayev examined ways to increase Korean participation in Kazakhstan's urban development projects and to broaden cooperation in the digital economy and environment. Kim separately met Kazakhstan Energy Minister Yerlan Akkenzhenov during the visit.

"South Korea and Kazakhstan are expanding the scope of cooperation beyond traditional areas, such as natural resources, energy and plant construction, to new areas, like digital technology and eco-friendly industries," Kim said in a press release.

He added that Seoul would continue follow-up consultations and work to strengthen bilateral economic ties ahead of the inaugural Korea-Central Asia summit scheduled for September 2026. A photograph of Kim dated May 21, 2026, was released by his office in connection with the trip.

After the Astana meetings, Kim plans to accompany President Lee Jae-myung on visits to France, Belgium, Italy and the Vatican, then travel onward to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.