India–South Korea relations rest on deep historical and cultural roots (including the Ayodhya–Queen Heo Hwang-ok legend and Tagore’s “Lamp of the East”) that have evolved into a formal special strategic partnership since 1973.

Economic, defence and technology cooperation is expanding through CEPA, rising trade, joint production such as K9 Vajra howitzers, and a Strategic Vision 2026–2030 focused on semiconductors, supply-chain resilience and innovation.

People-to-people and cultural ties—driven by K-culture, Indian arts, education exchanges and the extended Cultural Exchange Programme—are reinforcing the relationship, with success depending on turning agreements into concrete industrial and strategic results.

Introduction: A Friendship Rooted in History

What connects two countries separated by thousands of kilometers? Beyond diplomacy and treaties, history, culture and people can create enduring ties between nations. India and South Korea are not just countries connected by diplomatic relations; they share historical and cultural connections that go back centuries. Formal diplomatic relations were established on 10 December 1973. In 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Seoul and in 2023, the two countries commemorated 50 years of diplomatic ties. Beyond modern diplomacy, the relationship also has an interesting historical and cultural narrative connecting Ayodhya and ancient Korea. Over time, this connection has transformed into a serious strategic partnership involving much more than history and culture. This article, explores how India and South Korea have strengthened their relationship through culture, history, diplomacy and new areas of partnership. It also considers what the future could hold for this evolving partnership.  

From Ancient Connections to Modern Diplomacy

 Long before India and South Korea established formal diplomatic relations, their relationship was connected through a fascinating story that links the ancient kingdoms of Korea with Ayodhya in India. According to the 13th-century Korean historical text “Samguk Yusa” or “Heritage History of the Three Kingdoms”, Princess Suriratna from Ayodhya, India went to Korea in the year 48 A.D. She married King Kim-Suro of the former Gaya Confederacy in ancient Korea and became Queen Heo Hwang-ok. Some scholars believe that Buddhism reached Korea through a maritime route associated with the........

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