An Analysis of Development Cooperation between Korea and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

This study examines the progress of the cooperative relationship between Korea and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), highlighting key achievements in development cooperation, and identifying tasks for improving the Official Development Assistance (ODA) implementation system and aid modality. Since initiating dialogue with ASEAN in 1989, Korea has advanced its collaboration by formalizing a Comprehensive and Strategic Partnership (CSP) during the ASEAN-Korea Summit in October 2024. ASEAN has gained significant attention as an emerging market, having experienced a stable growth phase since the 1990s. The Korea-ASEAN cooperation relationship has similarly evolved, particularly as Indochina adopted reform and liberalization policies. These changes have led to rapid improvements in trade and investment conditions, and six ASEAN countries have been designated as key partner countries, facilitating continued expansion of ODA projects. Nevertheless, disparities remain, as underdeveloped countries with weak domestic production bases face widening development gaps. There are also concerns that ASEAN countries will fall into the middle-income trap due to the rise of China. Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar, identified as Least Developed Countries (LDCs), have seen an increase in support projects aimed at bridging regional development gaps. However, for ODA projects to be more effective, it is necessary to strengthen localization efforts and promote locally led development in recipient countries.