Morocco and South Korea Strengthen Strategic Ties over Moroccan Sahara

The relationship between Morocco and South Korea has reached a new strategic milestone. For the first time, Seoul has officially expressed its support for Morocco's autonomy proposal for the Sahara, first presented in 2007. This marks a shift from South Korea’s usual diplomatic caution on this sensitive issue.

In a recent statement, the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged Morocco’s autonomy plan, praising the “serious and credible” efforts of Rabat towards a lasting political solution in line with United Nations resolutions, particularly Resolution 1754.

This development indicates South Korea’s intention to move beyond its previously neutral stance, aligning more clearly with UN efforts while recognizing the relevance of Morocco's vision. Seoul also acknowledges the strategic importance Morocco attaches to this issue in its foreign policy.

Over the years, Morocco and South Korea have maintained dynamic bilateral relations, driven by strong economic cooperation and enhanced political dialogue. South Korea’s new diplomatic direction comes at a time of shifting geopolitical landscapes, as South Korea seeks to strengthen its presence in Africa, relying on stable and influential partners like Morocco.

Morocco has established itself as a significant regional player, with active diplomacy and substantial investments across the country, including in its southern provinces. Today, more than 113 countries officially support Morocco’s autonomy plan, further solidifying the legitimacy of this solution on the international stage.

For South Korea, supporting Morocco’s stance is part of a broader strategy to solidify alliances, particularly in light of the ongoing geopolitical shifts in Africa and Asia. The development of economic relations with Morocco, including in the Saharan regions, demonstrates a clear intent to anchor this cooperation in a long-term strategic framework.

This shift in South Korean diplomacy also has domestic implications. It reflects a growing understanding of Morocco’s geopolitical role as a bridge between Africa and Asia, a valuable asset in the current global configuration.

Moreover, South Korea's decision to exclude the Polisario Front from the 2024 Korea-Africa Summit in Seoul has been interpreted as a strong signal of realignment in favor of Morocco, grounded in pragmatism aimed at regional stability, securing investments, and supporting inclusive development in Morocco’s southern regions.

Thus, the growing partnership between Rabat and Seoul seems poised for a strengthened future, built on solid, mutually beneficial strategic foundations.