Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s visit to Seoul marks a new chapter in Italy-South Korea relations. For the first time in nearly twenty years, an Italian head of government has traveled on an official visit to the country, signaling Rome’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
During her meeting with the South Korean President, Meloni highlighted three key priorities. First, economic and industrial partnership: South Korea is currently Italy’s largest Asian export market per capita, reflecting the strong reputation of Italian companies and Made in Italy products. The goal is to encourage new investments, support SMEs in international expansion, and address non-tariff barriers to Italian products.
The second priority focuses on cooperation in value chains and strategic technologies, starting with semiconductors. A memorandum of understanding was signed to strengthen industrial synergies, promote scientific research, and facilitate exchanges between universities, research centers, and businesses, an essential investment in a knowledge-driven economy.
The third priority concerns political coordination on major international issues. Italy and South Korea aim to deepen dialogue on the Indo-Pacific, enhance collaboration with G7 partners, and pursue joint initiatives in Africa under Italy’s “Mattei Plan.” Cultural cooperation and people-to-people exchanges were also emphasized. The visit concluded with an official invitation for the South Korean president to visit Italy later this year.