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Laos, South Korea Leaders Move to Deepen Cooperation on Crime, Economy, Security

This Week

Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith met with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in Seoul on 15 December to discuss closer cooperation on transnational crime, economic development, and security, as the two countries marked three decades since the restoration of diplomatic relations.

The talks were held amid growing concerns over criminal activities involving Korean nationals in the region, including online fraud, illegal gambling operations, and drug trafficking. Both leaders agreed to intensify joint efforts to address these challenges through closer legal and institutional cooperation.

During the summit, Laos and South Korea signed two treaties on criminal justice cooperation, covering criminal extradition and mutual legal assistance. The agreements establish a legal framework for the repatriation of suspects and the exchange of evidence, strengthening both countries’ ability to combat transnational crime.

South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and Xaysana Khotphouthone, Chief of the Supreme People’s Prosecutor Office of Laos, also agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a “comprehensive partnership.” Discussions included plans to expand trade and investment, enhance infrastructure and supply chain cooperation, and strengthen coordination on regional and international issues.

President Lee described Laos as a key partner in South Korea’s critical minerals supply chain and reaffirmed Seoul’s commitment to supporting Laos’ development as a regional transport and logistics hub in Southeast Asia.

President Thongloun, in turn, sought continued South Korean support for Laos’ economic development, noting that the country remains among the 44 nations classified by the United Nations as least developed.

The two sides also signed a memorandum of understanding renewing Laos’ participation in South Korea’s employment permit system. The agreement allows non-professional Lao workers to continue seeking employment in South Korea under the E-9 visa programme.

President Thongloun arrived in Seoul on 14 December for a two-day official visit at the invitation of President Lee. The visit coincided with the 30th anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Laos and South Korea first established diplomatic ties in 1974, which were suspended the following year amid political changes in Southeast Asia, before being formally restored in 1995.

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