SEOUL, South Korea — South Korean President Lee Jae Myung began a four-day diplomatic tour of Southeast Asia on March 1, visiting Singapore and the Philippines to expand cooperation in artificial intelligence, nuclear energy and emerging strategic industries, according to statements from Seoul’s presidential office and regional governments.
The trip, which includes a summit with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and talks with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., reflects South Korea’s broader effort to deepen economic and technological ties with Southeast Asia as global supply chains and energy markets face growing uncertainty.
Singapore Summit Focuses on AI, Nuclear Technology and Investment
During his visit to Singapore from March 1 to 3, President Lee will meet with Prime Minister Wong to discuss expanding bilateral cooperation beyond traditional trade and investment into advanced technologies and energy systems.
At a joint press conference, the two governments will announce plans to strengthen collaboration in artificial intelligence, small modular nuclear reactors and other high-technology sectors, while also pursuing an upgrade of the bilateral free trade agreement. Several memoranda of understanding were signed covering AI, quantum technology, space satellites and financial cooperation between state investment institutions.
Officials in both countries see the agreements as part of a broader strategy to position the region as a hub for advanced technologies. Singaporean leaders will also emphasize the importance of joint work on AI governance and its applications in industries such as healthcare, finance and advanced manufacturing.
Manila Talks Highlight Defense, Infrastructure and Critical Minerals
After departing Singapore, Lee will travel to Manila from March 3 to 4 for talks with President Marcos aimed at strengthening security and economic ties between the two countries.
The leaders plan to expand cooperation in defense industries, infrastructure development, nuclear power and critical minerals, sectors seen as essential for energy security and next-generation manufacturing.
Lee pointed out, the two nations could become “optimal partners” in nuclear energy development, while also exploring collaboration in shipbuilding, supply chains and digital technology, including artificial intelligence. Philippine officials welcome South Korea’s technological expertise as Manila considers expanding its energy mix and reviving nuclear power capacity.
Strategic Outreach to Southeast Asia
South Korean officials said the visits were part of a broader diplomatic effort to diversify economic partnerships and strengthen ties with ASEAN economies, particularly in industries such as AI, nuclear energy and defense manufacturing.
Analysts note that the initiative comes as geopolitical tensions and energy market disruptions — including instability in the Middle East — have underscored the need for resilient supply chains and diversified technological cooperation across Asia.
President Lee will return to Seoul on March 4.