Canada–South Korea Relations

There are strong diplomatic relations between Canada and South Korea (Republic of Korea). Canadian soldiers participated in the defense of South Korea during the Korean War. Full diplomatic relations between Canada and South Korea were established on January 14, 1963. Canada has an embassy in Seoul. South Korea has an embassy in Ottawa and three Consulates-General, in Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver. Both nations are full members of APEC, OECD and the G20.

History

Contact between Canada and South Korea dates back to the 19th century when Canadians were some of the first Westerners to arrive on the Korean peninsula, a majority of whom were Christian missionaries, though they branched out into other fields of work. Rev. Canadian James S. Gale created A Korean-English Dictionary, which became the first and most essential tool for the scholarly study of Korea in the West, and did an independent translation of the Bible into the Korean language. Another Canadian, Dr. Oliver R. Avison, was the personal physician to King Kojong (1852–1919) and is considered the founder of modern medical knowledge in Korea. Dr. Frank Schofield, a British-born Canadian from Guelph, Ontario, played an important role in the liberation of Korea from the Japanese occupation. Schofield is the only Westerner buried in the patriot section in Korea's National Cemetery. Official contact began in 1947 when Canada participated in the United Nations Commission overseeing election in Korea, and Canada formally recognized the Republic of Korea in 1949.

When war broke out between North Korea and South Korea in 1950, Canada sent 26,971 military personnel to the Korean peninsula as part of a United Nations force, the third largest contingent behind the United States and the United Kingdom. Additionally, Canadians saw action in both naval and air forces with eight destroyers, 3,621 naval officers and men, twenty-two fighter pilots and several technical officers; whom were attached to the U.S. Fifth Air Force. Canada continued peacekeeping operations in Korea with the introduction of the Armistice Agreement. Due to the nature of the Korean War as the "Forgotten War", public awareness has been raised with the dedication of a national monument in 1997 - the Wall of Remembrance in Brampton, Ontario. 516 Canadians died in the war and 378 Canadians lie buried in the United Nations Memorial Cemetery in Busan.

In 2018, two Canadian nationals, Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, were detained in China after being accused by the Chinese government of espionage and endangering national security. On February 12, 2021, Canada and 57 other nations, including the US, UK, Australia, Germany and Sweden, jointly signed a declaration condemning the use of arbitrarily detaining people for political purposes. In response, China called Canada's action a "despicable and hypocritical act". The declaration was supported by 57 countries, though one historically democratic country not on the list of supporters is South Korea, which has been looking to build a stronger relationship with China. On March 22, 2021, Michael Kovrig's trial began in Beijing behind closed doors.

Economic relations

South Korea is Canada's seventh largest trading partner.

Canada and South Korea entered into the Canada-Korea Free Trade Agreement on January 1, 2015, after nearly a decade of deliberation.

The Canada-Korea Energy Forum has been held annually since 2009.

Trade

In 2014, South Korea was the 7th largest destination for Canadian exports the 3rd largest in Asia. In December 2009, Canadian Prime Minister, Stephen Harper, traveled to Seoul on his Asian Tour. The two countries talked on opening further trade relations. Despite suggesting trade advancements in technology and resources, South Korea did not commit to a lifting of the ban on Canadian beef. In October 2011, Canadian Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz stated that he felt confident that South Korea would reopen the South Korean market to Canadian beef by year's end. The ban has existed since 2003.

Trade relations in the beef market have softened as of early 2012, ending the ban of imported beef. Canada continues to make significant strides in relations with Korea in many areas, including open free trade agreements.

On March 11, 2014, Prime Minister Stephen Harper and President Park Geun-hye announced that Canada and South Korea had concluded negotiations on the Canada–Korea Free Trade Agreement.

Canadian-South Korean bilateral trade reached (CAD) $21.9 billion in 2022. In the same year, Canadian export to South Korea were $8.7 billion, while South Korean exports to Canada reached $13.2 billion. Canada's main exports to South Korea were mineral fuels and oils (crude), cereals, wood pulp, mineral ores and meat. South Korea's main exports to Canada were vehicles, electrical equipment, machinery, oils (not crude) and iron/steel.

In 2023, Canada and South Korea had a total merchandise trade of $20.9 billion CAD. Canada exported $7 billion CAD of mainly mineral fuels, ores, meat, wood pulp, and electrical machines and equipment while South Korea imported $13.9 billion CAD worth of primarily motor vehicles, machinery, electrical machines and equipment, iron, and steel.

Bilateral Trade Overview:

The trade relationship between Canada and South Korea has developed steadily over the past five decades, becoming a vital component of their bilateral ties. Formal diplomatic relations were established in 1963, but trade volumes began to grow substantially in the 1990s and early 2000s, as both countries liberalized their economies and embraced globalization.

Historical Trends and Trade Volume:

Historically, South Korea was one of Canada's first major trading partners in Asia after Japan and China According to Global Affairs Canada's 2023 report, total two-way merchandise trade between Canada and South Korea reached $20.9 billion CAD in 2022, a sharp increase from $7 billion CAD in 2000s.
Canada South Korea trade

CKFTA Impact Analysis:

The Canada–Korea Free Trade Agreement (CKFTA), which came into force on January 1, 2015, marked Canada's first bilateral free trade agreement in the Asia-Pacific region. Its implementation significantly reshaped trade flows between the two countries by eliminating tariffs, increasing market access, and fostering sectoral competitiveness.
Canadian exportsSouth Korean exports

Tariff Breakdown:

At the time of signing, South Korea agreed to eliminate tariffs on 98.2% of Canadian goods exported to Korea, while Canada committed to eliminating 97.8% of tariffs on South Korean imports.

Challenges and Opportunities

While Canada and South Korea have developed a robust economic partnership, the relationship still faces regulatory, geopolitical, and strategic hurdles that impact future trade growth. One of the primary challenges lies in regulatory and technical barriers, particularly in the agricultural sector. For instance, South Korea has historically imposed restrictions on Canadian beef imports due to concerns over Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), commonly known as mad cow disease.

Geopolitical dynamics also shape the contours of the Canada–South Korea trade relationship. The ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China have disrupted regional supply chains and prompted both Canada and South Korea to reassess their trade strategies. As a result, both nations are increasingly adopting "friend-shoring" approaches, where supply chains are redirected through trusted partners. This has created an opening for expanded cooperation in sectors deemed strategically important, such as battery materials, critical minerals, and semiconductors.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) between the two countries is growing but remains subject to additional challenges. Canadian companies often face difficulties navigating South Korea's complex regulatory environment, especially in sectors such as finance and infrastructure. Similarly, South Korean firms operating in Canada can encounter complications at the provincial level, particularly around environmental permitting and energy project regulations.

Despite these challenges, several promising opportunities have emerged. Chief among them is the growing potential for collaboration on green energy initiatives. Both Canada and South Korea have committed to net-zero carbon targets by 2050 and are actively pursuing partnerships in hydrogen energy, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and the electric vehicle (EV) supply chain. Korean firms like LG Energy Solution and POSCO have already invested in Canadian battery production and mineral extraction projects, especially in Ontario and Quebec.

In addition to energy cooperation, digital trade and innovation present another frontier for bilateral growth. Canada's expanding innovation ecosystem and South Korea's technological strength make them natural partners in fields such as artificial intelligence, fintech, cybersecurity, and advanced wireless communication technologies

In May 2023, Canada and South Korea agreed to implement the Canada-Korea Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP). The CSP aims to deepen the bond between Canada and South Korea by promoting bilateral discussions on issues including but not limited to: defending international rule of law, strengthening each nation's security, deepening economic ties, energy and environmental concerns, and expanding health and culture ties.

Korean companies investment in Canada and Canadian companies investment in Korea

Mad Cow Disease (BSE) and Canadian Beef Exports to South Korea

2003 Outbreak: Canada reported its first case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), commonly known as mad cow disease, in Alberta in 2003. In response, South Korea, along with over 40 other countries, immediately banned Canadian beef imports due to health and safety concerns.
After facing public discontent following the removal of the ban of American beef, South Korea refused to lift the ban on Canadian beef at the risk of further upsetting the public. Following the beginning of discussions surrounding free trade between the two countries, the ban on Canadian beef remained a source of contention. In 2009, the World Trade Organization set up a dispute settlement panel to settle the issue of the ongoing ban of Canadian beef in South Korea due to the ban's violation of South Korea's WTO obligations.

Market Reopening (2012): After nearly a decade, South Korea partially lifted its ban in 2012, allowing the import of Canadian beef from cattle under 30 months of age. This cautious reopening reflected continued public health concerns and strict food safety regulations in South Korea.

2016 Agreement: In 2016, Canada and South Korea reached an agreement to improve Canadian beef access. This included updated inspection protocols, clearer documentation, and stronger safety assurances, which helped restore confidence in Canadian agricultural products.

2021–2022 Suspension: Another atypical case of BSE was reported in Alberta in December 2021. As a precaution, South Korea temporarily suspended Canadian beef imports. However, after review by Canadian and international health authorities, the ban was lifted in early 2022, with South Korea acknowledging that the case posed no risk to the food supply.

Post-COVID Context: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global supply chains and heightened food safety scrutiny. Despite this, Canada–South Korea beef trade has resumed under strengthened monitoring and compliance measures. Canadian beef exports to South Korea remain cautiously regulated but continue to grow in volume.

By sector

Agriculture

Due to limited domestic production of food, South Korea relies on imports. In 2022 Canada was South Korea's ninth largest supplier of food and seafood products, with top imports including canola oil, wheat, and pork. Key provinces involved in producing these goods were Saskatchewan which produced a majority of canola oil and wheat, Alberta which contributed heavily to beef exports, Manitoba which supplied the most pork, and Ontario which produced the most soy beans.

Oil and Gas

In 2009, the Korea National Oil Corp (KNOC) bought Harvest Energy Trust, an Alberta based oil company, for 3.9 billion Canadian dollars.

Energy

On March 23, 2022, LG Energy Solution Ltd. and Stellantis announced plans to build the first large scale electric vehicle battery manufacturing plant in Windsor, Ontario. The Canadian government offered $15 billion in tax breaks in support of the project.

Automobiles

Hyundai Motor Company founded Hyundai Motor America on February 20, 1986.

Drug Policy and Bilateral Relations

Canada and South Korea take fundamentally different approaches to drug regulation, shaped by distinct legal philosophies, public health priorities, and cultural perceptions of substance use. Canada has adopted a harm reduction model, integrating cannabis legalization and supervised consumption initiatives into its broader public health strategy.Lee, Songhee, Baik, Hyung-Ui, Lee, Juyong, and Shin, Yunjae. "A Path Analysis Study on the Influence of Social Norms on Substance Use Severity: Focusing on People Who Use Cannabis, Narcotics, and Psychotropic Substances in South Korea." ''International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health'', Vol. 22, Issue 1, 2024. pp. 1-12. MDPI

/ref> In contrast, South Korea upholds a strict prohibitionist stance, criminalizing drug use both domestically and for its citizens abroad.Cho, Byung In. "Drug Control Policy in Korea." ''Canadian Electronic Library'', 2004. pp. 1-44. Canada Commons

/ref> These divergent policies have created legal uncertainties for South Korean nationals in Canada, raised diplomatic concerns, and influenced law enforcement cooperation between the two nations.Fortnam, Brett. "USTR Knocks Japan, Korea, Canada, Others for Drug Policies." ''InsideHealthPolicy.com's FDA Week'', Vol. 25, No. 18, 2019. p. 14. JSTOR

/ref>

Canada and South Korea have fundamentally different philosophies regarding drug regulation. Canada treats drug policy as a public health issue, focusing on harm reduction and legal oversight. The legalization of recreational cannabis in 2018 established a regulated market, and the government continues to implement measures such as supervised consumption sites and substance abuse treatment programs to minimize risks associated with drug use.

South Korea, on the other hand, enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy on narcotics. Drug use is considered a serious criminal offense, with severe penalties for possession, distribution, and consumption. Uniquely, South Korean law extends beyond its borders, meaning citizens can face prosecution for using banned substances even while traveling abroad. Following Canada's legalization of cannabis, South Korean authorities reaffirmed this stance, warning that nationals who used cannabis overseas could be arrested upon returning home. This approach has posed legal dilemmas for South Koreans living in or visiting Canada, highlighting the stark contrast in how each country views and handles drug-related issues.

The stark policy differences have had direct implications for trade and legal matters. Canadian cannabis companies seeking to expand globally face significant restrictions when dealing with South Korea's regulatory framework. Unlike other international markets where Canadian firms have established legal cannabis exports, South Korea's zero-tolerance policy limits commercial opportunities in the sector.

Additionally, Canadian citizens visiting or residing in South Korea must adhere to local drug laws, which include severe penalties for possession and use. South Korea's legal system imposes lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines for drug-related offenses. Foreign nationals convicted of drug crimes in South Korea may also face deportation and travel bans.

The opposing drug policies have, at times, created diplomatic tensions. South Korea's government has been vocal in its opposition to Canada's cannabis legalization, issuing advisories to its citizens and warning of potential legal consequences. Such warnings highlight the broader cultural and legal divide between the two nations on drug-related issues.

Despite these differences, Canada and South Korea collaborate on law enforcement efforts related to drug trafficking and organized crime. The two nations share intelligence on drug smuggling routes and participate in international initiatives to combat illicit drug trade. South Korea has engaged in joint operations with Canadian law enforcement agencies to prevent cross-border drug trafficking, particularly concerning synthetic narcotics and precursor chemicals.

The drug policy divergence between Canada and South Korea underscores the complex interplay of law, public health, and international relations. While their approaches to substance regulation differ significantly, both nations continue to navigate the challenges posed by the global drug trade, enforcement policies, and evolving societal attitudes toward drug use. Expanding cooperation on intelligence-sharing and law enforcement initiatives remains crucial for addressing transnational drug-related challenges.

Culture

The South Korean government maintains the Korean Education Centre () in Toronto.
Korean version
/ref> Kim's Convenience is getting popular and recognised in Korea.

Food Culture

One of the most visible aspects of Korean culture in Canada is its cuisine. Traditional dishes such as kimchi, bulgogi, and sundubu-jjigae (soft tofu stew) are becoming increasingly popular across major Canadian cities. Korean supermarkets, such as H-Mart and Hanahreum, offer not only groceries but also cultural familiarity for Korean immigrants and curiosity for non-Koreans alik

Korean restaurants and street food stalls have multiplied, especially in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, where cultural diversity supports a wide range of culinary expression

The popularity of Korean cuisine is also reflected in its frequent presence at multicultural events such as the Edmonton Heritage Festival, the Toronto Korean Festival, and the Seoul Food & Hotel tradeshow in 2023 which celebrates the 60th anniversary of Korea-Canada diplomatic relation

The media plays a crucial role in shaping culinary interests. Korean television shows and dramas often emphasize traditional meals, encouraging both immigrants and non-Koreans to explore Korean food. This is particularly true for first-generation Korean-Canadians, who maintain cultural ties through food preparation at home, as seen in films like Riceboy Sleeps (film), Riceboy Sleeps.

Festivals, Arts, and Performances

Cultural festivals and performances offer a vibrant platform for Korean culture in Canada. Events such as Korea Week in Montréal, the Burnaby Korean Cultural Heritage Festival, and the Toronto Korean Festival showcase both traditional and contemporary Korean art forms, including dance, music, and theater.

Artistic collaboration between Canadian and Korean artists has also increased, reflecting deeper intercultural exchange. These events not only promote Korean culture but also foster a greater understanding of the diversity within Canada.

Koreatown and Community Hubs

Koreatowns in cities like Toronto and Vancouver serve as important cultural and economic centers. Vancouver's Koreatown, situated along North Road between Burnaby and Coquitlam, is a prime example. This area hosts a variety of Korean-owned businesses, including medical, automotive, financial, beauty, and immigration service

Korean signage is common, making the area a hub of linguistic and cultural identity.

Community centers and Korean churches in Canada are not only places of worship but also provide networking opportunities, cultural education, and social support for new immigrants. These institutions serve as cultural anchors for Korean-Canadians, preserving language and tradition while facilitating integration into Canadian society

Media and Pop Culture Influence

The rise of K-pop and Korean dramas has had a profound impact on Canadian youth culture. Groups like BTS and BLACKPINK have passionate fan bases across Canada, while dramas available on platforms such as Netflix, Viki, and YouTube have increased access to Korean media.

This accessibility has contributed to a growing interest in Korean language, fashion, and digital trends such as Mukbang (broadcast eating). For second-generation Korean-Canadians, these platforms serve as a tool for maintaining cultural identity and improving language skills.

Diplomatic and Cultural Initiatives

The governments of South Korea and Canada continue to promote cultural diplomacy through official exchange programs and commemorative events. The Korea-Canada Year of Cultural Exchanges (2024–2025) exemplifies the commitment of both nations to fostering mutual understanding and cultural appreciatio

See also

* Canada–Korea Free Trade Agreement
* Canada–North Korea relations
* Foreign relations of Canada
* Foreign relations of South Korea
** Indo-Pacific Strategy of South Korea
* Korean Canadian
* Kim's Convenience
* Asia–Canada relations

References

External links

Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade about relations with South Korea

Canadian embassy in Seoul

Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade about relations with Canada

South Korean embassy in Ottawa

South Korean consulate in Montreal

South Korean consulate in Toronto

South Korean consulate in Vancouver

the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada

{{DEFAULTSORT:Canada-South Korea relations

South Korea
Bilateral relations of South Korea