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South Korea is currently known as a country that is quite active in various International Organizations. Its participation in these organizations demonstrates that South Korea is not only focused on domestic development but also seeks to contribute to global cooperation. Through various international forums, South Korea strives to strengthen its relationships with other countries while actively participating in finding solutions to global issues, such as economic stability, international peace, and environmental concerns (Asiae, 2025).
One International Organization that plays a significant role for South Korea is the United Nations (UN). South Korea officially became a member of the UN in 1991, alongside North Korea. South Korea’s accession to the UN was a crucial step for the country to expand its diplomatic relations with nations worldwide. Through the UN, South Korea participates in various programs related to development, world peace, and humanitarian aid. Additionally, South Korea contributes to maintaining global stability by participating in several peacekeeping missions in conflict zones (Nagaland Tribune, 2025).
In addition to its role in the field of peace, South Korea is also active in international economic cooperation through its membership in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). South Korea joined this organization in 1996, this membership serves as a sign that South Korea has successfully developed into an advanced industrial nation. Within the OECd, South Korea participates in discussions on various economic policies, such as technological innovation, improving the quality of education, and sustainable economic development. South Korea frequently shares its economic development experiences with developing countries as an example of successful economic transformation. South Korea’s role is also evident in global economic forums such as the Group of Twenty (G20). This forum brings together the world’s largest economies to discuss various international economic issues. South Korea hosted the G20 summit in 2010 in Seoul, this demonstrates that South Korea’s position in the global economy is increasingly significant. Within the G20, South Korea frequently advocates for more balanced economic cooperation between developed and developing nations to ensure more stable global economic growth.
At the regional level, South Korea is also active in the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). This organization focuses on enhancing economic cooperation in the Asia Pacific region. Through APEC, South Korea collaborates with other countries to strengthen international trade, promote technological innovation, and foster sustainable economic growth in the region. South Korea’s participation in this regional organization helps the country expand its network of economic cooperation with various nations. In addition to focusing on economic and political issues, South Korea has also become active in various other global issues, such as climate change and sustainable development. South Korea supports various international programs related to the use of renewable energy and environmentally friendly technologies. Furthermore, South Korea provides development assistance to several developing countries through international cooperation. This demonstrates that South Korea not only utilizes global organizations for national interests but also strives to contribute to the global community.
South Korea’s involvement in various international organizations demonstrates the country’s commitment to playing an active role in global cooperation. Through its participation in the UN, OECD, G20, and APEC, South Korea seeks to support global stability, strengthen international economic cooperation, and help drive global development. With its development experience, South Korea can also serve as a model for other nations seeking to achieve economic progress and strengthen their roles within the international community (Asiae, 2025).
Writer: Julia Fauzia Rahma – 202410360110031
Reference
Council on Foreign Relations. (2013, February 2023). Global governance and middle powers: South Korea’s role in the G20.
https://www.cfr.org/report/global-governance-and-middle-powers-south-koreas-role-g20
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea. (n.d.). Republic of Korea and the G20.
https://www.mofa.go.kr/eng/wpge/m_5470/contents.do
Nagaland Tribune. (2025, November 2023). South Korean president urges revitalisation of WTO at G20 summit.
https://nagalandtribune.in/south-korean-president-lee-urges-revitalisation-of-wto-at-g20-summit/
Asiae. (2025). After G20, Korea expands cooperation with Global South.
https://cm.asiae.co.kr/en/article/2025112320285157917
Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). Seoul Development Consensus. In Wikipedia.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seoul_Development_Consensus
