The Indonesia-South Korea relationship is stronger and deeper now than at any time in its 50-year history. It is driven by complementary economic and strategic interests, and also by overlapping identities and values. Relative economic and political stability, common principles, complementary power profiles, and strategic capacity needs are all likely to further increase the prominence of this relationship in years to come.

Yet, with this growing importance comes additional responsibilities. If both sides continue to elevate relations, Jakarta and Seoul will need to actively communicate to better understand each other’s perspectives and priorities.

Significant progress has already been made to establish a framework for expanded bilateral relations, defined as a ‘special strategic partnership’. But, without continued top-level political buy-in and a multifaceted, forward-looking agenda, implementation could falter over the next decade