South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol arrived in the Philippines on Sunday for a state visit to strengthen bilateral ties. Yoon met with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The leaders agreed to elevate their bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership during their talks. Discussions covered trade, defense and nuclear energy.

In addition to bilateral talks, Yoon laid a wreath at the Korean War Memorial and attended a business forum to promote investment between the two nations. South Korea is keen to expand its economic footprint in the Philippines, particularly in defense exports and energy infrastructure projects.