The core of Cambodia’s evolving relationship with the ROK is fundamentally rooted in economic opportunity. Over the past decade, Cambodia has become a magnet for Korean investment, largely concentrated in sectors such as garment manufacturing, automotive parts, and digital technology. According to data released by the Cambodian Investment Board (CIB) in late 2024, Korean direct investment reached $7.8 billion, representing 38% of total foreign direct investment in the country. This concentration reflects Korea’s need for cost-effective manufacturing bases and Cambodia’s relatively relaxed regulatory environment, fostered by government incentives. “Cambodia provides a stable and predictable investment climate, coupled with a skilled workforce and access to regional markets,” explains Dr. Lee Sung-hyun, a senior economist at the Korea Institute for International Economic Policy. “The Korean government views Cambodia as a crucial component of its broader strategy to secure its position as a global manufacturing powerhouse.”
However, the economic dimension of the relationship is interwoven with a more strategic narrative. Cambodia’s security landscape has become increasingly volatile, fueled by transnational criminal networks, border disputes, and the ongoing instability along the Myanmar-Thailand border. The ROK, seeking to bolster its regional security presence and maintain strategic influence, has increasingly turned to Cambodia as a partner. The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of Cambodia-Korea Joint Task Force between the General Commissariat of Cambodian National Police and Korean National Police Agency in November 2025 represents a tangible demonstration of this collaboration. This initiative, focused on combating transnational crime and potentially providing specialized training to Cambodian law enforcement, strengthens Korean security interests in a strategically vital region. “Cambodia’s geographic location and growing security capabilities make it a valuable asset for the Korean government in addressing regional security threats,” stated a senior official within the Korean National Police Agency during a briefing in Seoul in late 2025.
The backdrop to this evolving relationship is the broader geopolitical realignment occurring within Southeast Asia. The Philippines’ increasingly assertive stance under President Marcos Jr. and heightened tensions surrounding the South China Sea have created a vacuum, subtly encouraging a diversification of security partnerships. Simultaneously, the ongoing conflicts in Myanmar and Ukraine have presented strategic challenges for Western powers, indirectly reducing the immediate pressure on nations like Cambodia to fully align with NATO-led initiatives. This shift has allowed Phnom Penh to pursue a more independent foreign policy, selectively engaging with partners like the ROK, China, and Thailand.
Data from the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) reveals a marked increase in diplomatic dialogues between Cambodia and ROK counterparts over the past year, largely focused on maritime security and counter-terrorism. Furthermore, while official trade figures remain dominated by Korean investment, Cambodian exports to the ROK have diversified significantly, encompassing higher-value goods such as electronics and specialty agricultural products. This points toward a growing economic interdependence that extends beyond purely transactional investments.
Looking ahead, the next six months will likely see intensified collaboration between the two countries on maritime security, with joint exercises and information sharing becoming increasingly common. The expansion of the Joint Task Force is anticipated, potentially incorporating specialized training and technology transfer. Long-term, over the next five to ten years, Cambodia’s role within ASEAN is expected to become even more complex. The country’s strategic alignment with the ROK could serve as a significant counterweight to Chinese influence, but also carries the risk of marginalizing Cambodia within the broader ASEAN framework. The potential for increased Korean military presence and influence within Cambodia’s security apparatus presents both opportunities and challenges for regional stability, demanding careful monitoring and strategic engagement from all stakeholders. The success of this evolving partnership will hinge on Cambodia’s ability to manage competing strategic interests while maintaining its sovereignty and fostering sustainable economic development. It presents a pivotal moment in Southeast Asia’s geopolitical landscape, highlighting the increasing importance of nuanced diplomatic engagement and strategic foresight.