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Individual Paper

3. Economic Globalisation: Prosperity or Pain?

Korea-Africa: Geopolitics, Diplomacy, and Power

North vs. South Korea: The Fight for Africa and Its Impact on Indo-Pacific Security

Thursday, June 12, 2025
14:00 - 15:45 GMT
Location: LOS-104

    Presenter(s)

  • EG

    Elena Guido

    LeidenAsiaCentre, Netherlands

Paper Abstract: As global security increasingly focuses on the Indo-Pacific, Africa's evolving role (particularly through its engagement with North and South Korea) has gained new relevance. This paper examines the strategic competition between the two Koreas in Africa and its potential impact on Indo-Pacific security. Earlier this summer, the Korea-Africa summit underscored the timeliness of this topic, as South Korea expands its outreach to Africa amid North Korea’s efforts to break free from its diplomatic isolation.


North Korea has embraced the idea of a “new Cold War”, seeking cooperation with countries opposed to the U.S. This May, North Korea’s Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with Africa, supporting the region’s independent development and resistance to imperialism. Meanwhile, South Korea has deepened its presence through development aid, trade partnerships, and multilateral diplomacy, especially with countries like Ethiopia and Kenya.


This paper argues that the competition between the two Koreas in the African continent could have significant implications for Indo-Pacific security. North Korea’s military ties in Africa offer potential resources and diplomatic support, while South Korea’s growing economic and diplomatic networks create new strategic influence aligned with its broader Indo-Pacific strategy.


Framing this analysis within the context of economic development and the geopolitical landscape, this study highlights how Korea's engagement in the region aligns with broader narratives of multi-centered globalization. Ultimately, this paper seeks to answer the following research question: How do the competing interests of North and South Korea in Africa influence the security dynamics of the Indo-Pacific?