India: the missing anchor in South Korea's Indo-Pacific strategy?

India, despite its rising global stature and shared democratic values, is yet to be fully integrated into South Korea's strategic framework

Seoul’s Indo-Pacific strategy is incomplete. While much attention has been given to South Korea's relationships with the United States, Japan, Europe (NATO), Australia, and ASEAN countries, India remains an underutilized partner— a potential "missing anchor" in South Korea's Indo-Pacific ambitions. India, despite its rising global stature and shared democratic values, is yet to be fully integrated into South Korea's strategic framework.

As the Indo-Pacific concept broadens, India's significance becomes undeniable. It is a nuclear power, an emerging economic and geostrategic giant, a promising UN permanent security council seat holder; and a key actor in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) alongside the U.S., Japan, and Australia. India’s geographical position at the nexus of the Indian Ocean and its influence across Central, South and Southeast Asia provide it with unique leverage in Indo-Pacific security dynamics, making it a crucial partner for any country seeking to play a ro…