The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) at the University of World Economy and Diplomacy, in partnership with The Korea Foundation (KF), implemented a research and public dialogue project in 2024 titled “Uzbekistan–Korea Relations: Past, Present, and Perspectives in the Context of Global Challenges”.

This initiative was designed to reassess the multifaceted relations between Uzbekistan and the Republic of Korea, drawing on historical ties, shared socio-political values, and emerging strategic interests. The project aimed to identify key trends and challenges in political, economic, social, educational, and cultural cooperation, while also developing forward-looking strategies to deepen bilateral engagement in an increasingly complex global environment.

The main directions of the project included:

• Historical analysis — contextualizing Korea–Uzbekistan relations through the lens of migration, diaspora links, and diplomatic history;
• Multidimensional cooperation — assessing the current state and potential of political, economic, educational, and cultural partnerships;
• Public dialogue and academic exchange — organizing a high-level international workshop with scholars, policymakers, and Korean and Uzbek stakeholders;
• Knowledge dissemination — producing a research publication and launching an academic monograph on Uzbekistan–Korea relations;
• Policy impact — delivering practical recommendations to integrate Korea–Uzbekistan cooperation into national strategic development agendas.

Project outputs:

A full-day international seminar was held on December 20, 2024, featuring keynote speeches by leading scholars, a panel discussion on sectoral cooperation, and networking opportunities for experts. Proceedings of the event and a final analytical report are being prepared for publication. Select contributions will be considered for inclusion in the International Affairs journal of UWED.

Project Details

Funding: The Korea Foundation (KF)

Duration: January – December 2024

Research Team: Prof. Valeriy Khan, Dr. Akram Umarov, Mekhriniso Abdurasulova, Hamza Boltaev, Islomkhon Gafarov, Olga Khan, Ziyodulla Pulatkhodjaev