South Korean President Lee Jae Myung advanced the Korea UAE Partnership during a business roundtable in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday. Moreover, the event highlighted expanding cooperation in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, nuclear power, defense, and creative industries.
President Lee said the Korea UAE Partnership would support the UAE’s regional leadership in artificial intelligence by 2031. Additionally, he emphasized South Korea’s semiconductor strengths and its ability to deliver complete engineering and construction services.
He also explained that both nations can reach carbon neutrality by combining solar capacity with advanced battery technology. Furthermore, he noted that this combined strategy should accelerate clean-energy development and strengthen emerging eco-friendly industries.
More than 50 senior business leaders joined the discussions to outline fresh cooperation opportunities. Additionally, participants included top executives from Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Motor, LG Electronics, SK Group, Naver, CJ Group, GS Energy, and Samyang Foods.
On the UAE side, representatives from Mubadala, Hub71, Presight, National Pulse Group, Lulu Group, and Sarya Holdings explored significant partnership models. Likewise, many of them expressed interest in long-term technology and industrial cooperation.
Technology officials reviewed plans for joint smart-city projects and next-generation artificial intelligence systems. Moreover, industrial leaders evaluated opportunities involving hydrogen, ammonia, energy storage, and combined cycle power plants.
Cultural and consumer sectors also received major attention during the roundtable. For instance, CJ Group proposed expanding Korean entertainment content across the Middle East through diversified partnerships. Similarly, Samyang Foods outlined ways to localize new products and strengthen a region-wide halal supply chain.
The roundtable, jointly organized by major business and trade agencies from both countries, further strengthened the Korea UAE Partnership at a pivotal moment. Consequently, officials said the meeting established a clear direction for long-term cooperation in advanced technology and sustainable energy.
Industry analysts noted that the Korea UAE Partnership increases South Korea’s strategic influence across the Middle East. Additionally, they said deeper coordination could broaden market access and support innovation-driven growth in both economies.
Both governments now plan additional meetings to finalize agreements in artificial intelligence, clean energy, defense technology, and cultural exchange. Ultimately, leaders expect these next steps to solidify the Korea UAE Partnership and expand opportunities across multiple future markets.
