On January 19, 2026, President Lee Jae-myung and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni held a summit at the Blue House, agreeing to elevate bilateral relations to a future-oriented strategic partnership. The summit focused on expanding cooperation in various fields, including economy, science, culture, and security, with both leaders outlining concrete measures in a joint press statement. Key topics included expanding trade, activating the Korea-Italy Business Forum, fostering SMEs, and collaborating in advanced industries. The two countries also committed to strengthening cultural and people-to-people exchanges based on mutual trust and friendship.
During the summit, three Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) were signed on semiconductors, disaster management, and cultural heritage protection, while cooperation in advanced manufacturing sectors such as AI, aerospace, and critical minerals was also agreed upon. President Lee emphasized revitalizing the Korea-Italy Business Forum as a platform for resolving business challenges and highlighted collaboration leveraging Italy’s robust SME ecosystem. In science and technology, both sides pledged joint research and talent development in basic and applied fields, including AI and aerospace. Measures to enhance tourism convenience, such as expanding Korean audio guides at major Italian attractions, were also discussed.
President Lee stressed the importance of close cooperation for easing tensions on the Korean Peninsula and contributing to global peace, reaffirming the two countries’ commitment to joint action on the international stage. Prime Minister Meloni described Korea as a key G7 partner and promised continued bilateral and multilateral cooperation. Both leaders agreed to expand cooperation in culture, tourism, and sports during the 2024-2025 Year of Mutual Cultural Exchange. Meloni also extended a state visit invitation to President Lee, who expressed his intention to visit Italy soon to achieve tangible outcomes.
This summit reaffirmed the Korea-Italy strategic partnership and paved the way for broader cooperation in economy, industry, science, and culture. Collaboration in semiconductors, critical mineral supply chains, defense, and disaster management is expected to drive future growth for both countries. Enhanced cultural and people-to-people exchanges will foster greater mutual understanding and friendship. The commitment to joint action on global issues and peacebuilding is likely to have a positive impact on the Korean Peninsula and the world.
This Korea-Italy summit exemplifies a practical integration of strategic interests in advanced industries, science, and culture. By establishing cooperation frameworks in semiconductors, AI, and critical mineral supply chains, both countries are poised to strengthen their industrial competitiveness and supply chain resilience. The expansion of cultural and people-to-people exchanges goes beyond economic benefits, fostering social trust and deeper mutual understanding. Such a multi-layered cooperation model can serve as a benchmark for international partnerships and enhance joint capabilities to address global challenges.