South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol embarked on a state visit to the UK on Monday, the first leg of a two-nation trip, also encompassing France, as part of a diplomatic push ahead of the 2030 World Expo bid. Yoon’s four-day visit, following an invitation from King Charles III, marks the 140th anniversary of bilateral relations between the two countries. The visit features a royal ceremony, a speech before the British parliament and a summit with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to discuss enhanced strategic cooperation in technology, trade and security.

South Korea and Britain are set to adopt the “Downing Street Accord” to upgrade their relations to a “global strategic partnership.” This accord will emphasize collaboration in the cybersecurity, defense and economic sectors, including joint responses to global issues and revising the South Korea-Britain free trade agreement. The partnership underlines a shared commitment to addressing challenges like the North Korean nuclear issue and fostering stronger ties in future industries such as AI and digital technologies.