The India-South Korea relationship could reach new heights if a bilateral labour agreement is signed, according to Dr. Zena Chung, Founder and President of the Indo-Korea Business and Culture Center (IK BCC). Speaking at Advantage Assam 2.0, Chung highlighted how such an agreement would enhance economic and cultural exchange, especially benefiting Northeast India.
Northeast India: A Key Player in India-South Korea Relations
During an exclusive conversation with India Today NE, Dr. Chung emphasized the strategic importance of Northeast India in India’s global economic role.
“The Northeast is a key region, and without visiting Assam and its neighbouring states, one cannot truly experience India. It holds immense business and tourism opportunities,” she said, urging foreign investors, particularly from South Korea, to explore the region.
She pointed out that South Korean companies have heavily invested in Vietnam, and similar opportunities exist in Northeast India in sectors like:
- Manufacturing
- Infrastructure development
- Tourism
- Technology and IT services
She further highlighted that the region remains largely unexplored, even by Indian diasporas, despite its rich resources and economic potential.
Why a Labour Agreement Between India and South Korea is Crucial?
A key proposal put forth by Dr. Chung was the signing of a formal labour agreement between India and South Korea.
Current Scenario:
- South Korea is facing an ageing population and a labour shortage.
- South Korea has signed labour agreements with Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka but not with India.
Potential Benefits of an India-South Korea Labour Agreement:
More Employment Opportunities for Indian Workers in South Korea. Increased Bilateral Trade between the two nations. Strengthened Economic Cooperation between India and South Korea. Boost to Remittances from Indian workers employed in South Korea.
Dr. Chung specifically urged Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Ministry of External Affairs, and the South Korean government to facilitate the agreement. She emphasized that such a pact would enhance human mobility and create new economic opportunities for both countries.
Advantage Assam 2.0: A Platform for Strengthening Indo-Korean Ties
The Advantage Assam 2.0 summit provided the perfect setting to discuss India-South Korea business and trade collaborations.
Dr. Chung acknowledged India’s rising global prominence under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and praised key initiatives such as:
- Viksit Bharat 2047 – India’s vision for economic growth.
- The upcoming AI Summit – positioning India as a global tech leader.
- Digital infrastructure development in Assam, including a major data center that will enhance connectivity in the region.
She believes that Assam’s strategic location makes it the ideal gateway for South Korean businesses to enter the Indian and Southeast Asian markets.
South Korea’s Growing Interest in Northeast India
Dr. Chung noted that South Korean investors have started exploring Northeast India, but more effort is needed to fully unlock the region’s potential.
Key Investment Sectors in Assam & Northeast India:
Manufacturing & Industrial Development – Leveraging Northeast India’s resources for South Korean industries. Tourism & Hospitality – Promoting cultural exchange and eco-tourism. Technology & Digital Infrastructure – Strengthening IT connectivity. Healthcare & Education – Enhancing bilateral academic and medical collaborations.
She also praised Assam’s rapid transformation and expressed optimism about its future economic growth.
Assam as the Gateway to Southeast Asia
Dr. Chung firmly believes that India’s Northeast can play a key role in Indo-Korean trade and business relations. She called on Indian and South Korean leaders to seize this opportunity to strengthen ties.
With Assam’s growing influence in India’s economic landscape, she envisions the state as a crucial link between India and Southeast Asia.
By focusing on strategic labour agreements, investment opportunities, and trade collaborations, India and South Korea can unlock immense economic potential in the region.
A Win-Win Partnership for India and South Korea
With South Korea’s need for a younger workforce and India’s growing pool of skilled professionals, a labour agreement could be a game-changer for both nations.
Dr. Chung’s call for stronger economic ties, increased investments, and cultural exchange at Advantage Assam 2.0 reinforces the importance of Assam and Northeast India in shaping India-South Korea relations.
As the region develops its infrastructure and business ecosystem, the time is right for both countries to capitalize on new opportunities and forge a stronger partnership for the future.
