President William Ruto has announced renewed efforts to strengthen Kenya’s partnership with South Korea, focusing on trade, investment, labour mobility, technology, energy, and agriculture.

Taking it to his social media handles on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, after a meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France, Ruto said the two countries reviewed progress in key areas of bilateral cooperation and explored new opportunities for economic growth and employment.

Among the key developments discussed was the establishment of permanent offices for the Export-Import Bank of Korea (KEXIM) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) in Nairobi. According to Ruto, the move is expected to enhance support for investment, infrastructure development, and broader economic cooperation between the two nations.

“We reviewed progress following the establishment of permanent offices for KEXIM and KOICA in Nairobi, strengthening support for investment, infrastructure and development cooperation,” Ruto said.

Ruto further noted that Kenya and South Korea continue to deepen collaboration in strategic sectors, including trade, information and communication technology (ICT), energy, and agriculture.

The discussions also focused on expanding market access for Kenyan exports to South Korea. The president revealed that talks were advanced on securing preferential market access for Kenyan products, particularly tea and coffee, which remain among the country’s leading export commodities.

In a move aimed at creating more employment opportunities for Kenyans abroad, Ruto stated that they explored expanding their existing bilateral labour arrangement. Ruto said the proposed expansion could open new pathways for Kenyan professionals, including teachers, to secure employment opportunities in South Korea.

Kenya and South Korea sign mutual agreement

The president further welcomed the signing of the agreement on the mutual recognition of certificates for seafarers between Kenya and South Korea.

The agreement is expected to boost employment prospects for Kenyan seafarers by enabling their qualifications to be recognised internationally, particularly within the global maritime industry.

The meeting underscores Kenya’s ongoing efforts to strengthen economic diplomacy and leverage international partnerships to create jobs, attract investment, and expand export markets.

South Korea remains one of Kenya’s key development partners, supporting projects in infrastructure, education, technology, and industrial development. The latest engagements signal a growing commitment by both countries to deepen bilateral relations and unlock new opportunities for their citizens.