The EU's Indo‐Pacific Strategy and South Korea: Convergence, Perceptions, and Prospects for Strategic Cooperation

ABSTRACT This article examines the evolving European Union–South Korea relationship through the framework of the EU's Indo‐Pacific Strategy (IPS). Drawing on interviews with policymakers, officials, and influencers, it traces six decades of bilateral ties, highlighting Korea's 2022 IPS and its convergence with EU priorities in digital governance, green transition, and sustainability. Although Korean perceptions acknowledge the EU's normative and regulatory roles, limitations arise from the EU's lack of military presence and Korea's shifting domestic politics. The Ukraine conflict underscores global interdependence and reshapes priorities. The article concludes with policy recommendations to enhance European Union–Korea cooperation as pragmatic and normative middle powers.