South Korean President Lee Jae‑myung wraps up Mongolia state visit

South Korean President Lee Jae‑myung returned to Seoul after a two‑part foreign trip that included the NATO summit in Turkey and a historic state visit to Mongolia. In Ulaanbaatar he was the first Korean head of state to be guest of honor at the Naadam festival, attending the opening ceremony, trying traditional archery and taking part in cultural events.

During talks with President Okhna Khurelsukh, the leaders adopted a joint declaration calling for a “golden era” of Korea‑Mongolia relations, welcomed a draft comprehensive economic partnership agreement, and set a goal of expanding bilateral trade to US$1 billion within five years. Cooperation on rare‑earth and other strategic minerals, as well as joint medical‑AI projects, were also highlighted. Lee’s delegation also began negotiations on a Korea‑NATO defence procurement framework.

The visit concluded with elaborate Mongolian hospitality, including a four‑hour traditional feast and the gifting of two ponies named “Rainbow” and “Gold.” Lee and First Lady Kim Hye‑kyung will now shift focus to domestic priorities such as a public housing debate, cabinet appointments and major infrastructure projects.