Socio-economic relationship of Korea and Kazakhstan: The role of Korean diaspora and homeland engagement

An increase in bilateral relations between Kazakhstan and South Korea has been experienced in many spheres, with advances noted in the economic, social, cultural, and educational areas. It is argued that the historical and cultural affinity of the two nations, such as that of the ethnic Korean diaspora, have played a significant role in the development of these ties. Therefore, this study investigates the socio-cultural, economic, and educational relationship between Kazakhstan and Korea. To this end, the history of the ethnic Koreans in Kazakhstan and the governmental organizations that are involved with the Korean diaspora are first investigated, with a particular focus on social and cultural aspects, after which the economic ties were analyzed, along with statistical data related to imports, exports, and investments. Finally, an analysis of the exchange programs in place was completed, including the Korean studies in Kazakhstan, and the Central Asian and Kazakhstani studies in Korea, increasing the understanding regarding the depth of the educational relations between the two countries.