Belgium–South Korea relations
Belgium–South Korea relations
Belgium and South Korea have long worked together in diplomacy, business and culture. Their formal ties began with the 1901 Treaty of Amity and Commerce between the Korean Empire and Belgium, but were suspended in 1905 when Korea lost its sovereignty.
After World War II, Belgium recognized South Korea’s government, and in 1965 ambassadorial-level relations were restored with resident missions, renewing bilateral ties.
During the Korean War, Belgium joined United Nations Command and sent more than 3,000 troops to Korea. Some Belgian personnel continued medical and humanitarian work after the fighting ended.
From the 1970s, as both countries industrialized, trade and economic cooperation grew. Belgium became a key European logistics hub and gateway for South Korean companies entering Europe, with increasing exchanges between governments and private businesses.
With Europe’s integration, Belgium became an important hub for South Korea’s diplomacy toward the European Union. South Korea maintains an embassy in Brussels that also handles affairs with the EU and NATO, while Belgium has an embassy in Seoul.
In 2019, King Philippe of Belgium visited South Korea, the first Belgian monarch to do so in 27 years, strengthening political and economic ties.
Economic and cultural ties focus on trade, investment, and technology cooperation, especially in semiconductors, life sciences and green technology. The European Union–South Korea Free Trade Agreement has boosted trade, helped by Belgium’s role as a logistics gateway.
Cultural and educational exchanges, art exhibitions and food festivals help deepen mutual understanding. In 2021, the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations was marked with events in South Korea and discussions about the future of the relationship.
This page was last edited on 2 February 2026, at 19:58 (CET).