What to Expect from South Korean President Lee Jae Myung's Historic Visit to India?

Ceremonial Welcome for President Lee Jae Myung

New Delhi: On Monday, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung received a grand ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Upon his arrival, he was greeted warmly by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Children dressed in traditional attire, holding both the South Korean flag and the Indian Tricolour, added to the festive atmosphere.

President Lee arrived in New Delhi on Sunday for a three-day official visit.

Union Minister of State for Corporate Affairs, Harsh Malhotra, was present at the airport to receive President Lee and First Lady Kim Hea Kyung.

Significance of the Visit

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized that President Lee's visit is a significant step in enhancing the Special Strategic Partnership between India and South Korea.

"President Lee was welcomed by Shri Harsh Malhotra, MoS for Corporate Affairs and Road Transport and Highways. This visit is pivotal for advancing the India-South Korea Special Strategic Partnership," the MEA stated in a post on social media.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also met with President Lee on Sunday.

"I am honored to meet President Lee Jae Myung of the Republic of Korea as he begins his State Visit to India. I appreciate his dedication to strengthening India-Korea relations across various sectors," Jaishankar noted in a social media update, expressing optimism that discussions with PM Modi would enhance their Special Strategic Partnership.

Bilateral Discussions and Cultural Exchange

Later in the day, President Lee is set to engage in a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi, where they will explore ways to bolster cooperation in areas such as shipbuilding, trade, investments, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and emerging technologies, along with cultural exchanges and people-to-people connections.

The leaders will also address regional and global issues of shared concern, according to the MEA.

PM Modi is expected to host a lunch in honor of President Lee, who will also have discussions with President Droupadi Murmu, who will hold a banquet at Rashtrapati Bhavan in his honor.

Additionally, President Lee plans to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat later in the day.

Strengthening Ties

The MEA highlighted that India and South Korea share a diverse partnership rooted in historical ties and mutual values of democracy and the rule of law. President Lee's visit signifies both nations' commitment to enhancing existing collaborations while exploring new areas of partnership.

In November, PM Modi and President Lee had a meeting during the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, marking their second interaction in 2025, following discussions at the G7 Summit in Canada.