Saudi-Korea cooperation is gaining momentum after senior officials from both nations met to expand ties in innovation and entrepreneurship. The talks focused on building stronger ecosystems for startups and small enterprises, signaling a new era of collaboration.
Saudi Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih met South Korea’s Minister for SMEs and Startups Han Seong-suk in Seoul. Together, they discussed ways to empower small businesses, align resources, and create opportunities in emerging sectors.
Al-Falih also joined a roundtable with companies under the Saudi-Korean SME and Entrepreneurship Programme. Participants showcased new technologies and explored options to enter the Saudi market in fields such as technology, energy, and advanced manufacturing.
The meeting coincided with the fifth session of the Saudi-Korean Vision 2030 Committee. The committee reviewed progress on joint initiatives and prepared for closer cooperation under the Strategic Partnership Council.
Al-Falih emphasized that the council will unlock opportunities in artificial intelligence, smart cities, culture, and innovation. He invited Korean firms to take part in Vision 2030 projects, including Expo 2030 in Riyadh and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Saudi-Korea ties have proliferated in recent years. Investment licenses issued to Korean firms in Saudi Arabia increased from 65 in 2016 to 213 in 2025. This surge highlights investor confidence in the Kingdom’s reforms and diversification programs.
Cooperation has also extended into advanced sectors. The Saudi Space Agency and the Korean Aerospace Administration signed an agreement to collaborate on space technologies, satellite launches, and manned flight programs. Another accord between the Saudi General Court of Audit and Korea’s Board of Audit and Inspection strengthened ties in accounting practices.
The partnership also includes industrial heavyweights. Samsung is working with Saudi partners in advanced technology projects, while Hyundai collaborates in the automotive sector. Defense cooperation has expanded as well, with agreements covering quality assurance, technology transfer, and joint development.
Analysts view the partnership as a strategic alignment that supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. Stronger ties with Korea enhance technology transfer, industrial growth, and market diversification. These collaborations also create new opportunities for entrepreneurs and international investors.
Looking forward, Their cooperation will likely broaden across sectors such as renewable energy, logistics, and defense. Both nations aim to align long-term strategies, strengthen innovation ecosystems, and reinforce their roles in the global economy.
