South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has expressed strong support for the Philippines as it prepares to host the 2026 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and related meetings.
Following his bilateral talks with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at Malacañang Palace, Lee said both leaders agreed to align the Philippines’ ASEAN priorities with South Korea’s strategic direction for its partnership with the regional bloc.
The Philippine agenda for its ASEAN chairmanship highlights three pillars: Peace and Security Anchors, Prosperity Corridors, and People Empowerment.
Meanwhile, South Korea’s Korea-ASEAN strategic vision emphasizes advancing shared aspirations for growth and innovation, fostering hope and opportunity, and strengthening regional peace and stability.
“The Republic of Korea will proactively support the Philippines as this year’s chair of ASEAN,” Lee said.
The Philippines’ hosting of ASEAN in 2026 will focus on promoting regional stability, accelerating economic progress, and advancing human development across Southeast Asia.
As one of ASEAN’s key dialogue partners, South Korea continues to actively engage the bloc through expanded cooperation in trade, cultural initiatives, and regional security efforts.
Lee underscored the growing partnership between Manila and Seoul, noting that it continues to flourish “building on historic bonds and friendship, as well as robust, substantial cooperation.”
He also stressed the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties and cultural exchanges.
Tourism figures reflect this close relationship: in 2025, approximately 1.35 million South Koreans traveled to the Philippines, while around 610,000 Filipinos visited South Korea — the highest recorded number among Asian countries.
For his part, Marcos expressed appreciation to Seoul for safeguarding the rights and welfare of more than 70,000 Filipinos residing and working in South Korea.