The Stratbase Institute, together with Geopolitical Insight, the Korea University ASEAN Center, and the UP Korea Research Center, organized the forum entitled “ASEAN-Korea Forum: Korea’s New Vision for ASEAN: CSP (Contributor, Springboard, Partner)” held at the Admiral Hotel- MGallery Collection. The forum brought together government officials, policy analysts, members of the diplomatic community, and the academe from South Korea and various Southeast Asian countries to discuss opportunities for deepening cooperation across the political-security, economic, and socio-cultural pillars.  

In her keynote speech, Eminent Person of the Philippines to the High-Level Task Force – ASEAN Community, Her Excellency Ambassador Elizabeth Buensuceso, stressed that the Republic of Korea has been one of ASEAN’s most reliable external partners and stated that Philippine leadership of ASEAN will be marked by a resolute commitment to lead ASEAN to become a consequential force for good not only in the region but also in the global community.  

Chairperson of the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives of the Philippines, Hon. Maria Rachel Arenas, highlighted the need for continued collaboration among stakeholders to further strengthen bonds and foster cooperation across various domains. She identified digital innovation and infrastructure, the responsible and ethical use of artificial intelligence, maritime security, and strengthening cybersecurity as possible priority areas for strategic partnership.  

Echoing this, Undersecretary for Administration of the Department of Foreign Affairs and former Philippine Ambassador to the Republic of Korea, Usec. Maria Theresa Dizon-De Vega, expressed that the Philippines, during its Chairship, will place strong emphasis on cooperation that is pragmatic, forward-looking, and truly responsive to current realities.  

South Korean Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Lee Sang Hwa highlighted that ASEAN–Korea relations have steadily deepened through the years, with ASEAN now Korea’s third-largest trading partner and third-largest destination for foreign direct investment. He reiterated South Korean President Lee Jae Myung’s statement that ASEAN is a central pillar of Korea’s foreign policy.  

Prof. Jae Hyeok Shin, CEO of Geopolitics Insight and Director of the Korea University ASEAN Center, expressed that ASEAN–Korea relations are entering a new chapter and emphasized the importance of defining the concrete steps needed to turn that vision into momentum, especially as the region continues to change rapidly.