Seoul, June 19, 2026 - Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Korea Asset Issenali held a meeting with Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Export-Import Bank of Korea (KEXIM) Kiyeon Hwang.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and future prospects of Kazakhstan-Korea investment, financial and economic cooperation, as well as opportunities to expand the participation of Korean financial institutions in the implementation of priority projects in Kazakhstan.
Particular attention was paid to cooperation in the fields of green growth, economic decarbonization, renewable energy development, production of green hydrogen and ammonia, and the introduction of advanced environmentally friendly technologies.
The interlocutors also reviewed prospects for cooperation in the critical minerals sector, including projects related to the extraction and deep processing of rare earth elements, the development of high value-added production chains, localization of industrial manufacturing, and the advancement of the battery industry.
In addition, the parties discussed potential participation of KEXIM in financing infrastructure, industrial and innovation projects aimed at strengthening transport and logistics connectivity, modernizing production capacities, establishing new export-oriented industries, and promoting joint investment initiatives.
In the context of preparations for the visit of President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to the Republic of Korea scheduled for September this year, both sides reaffirmed their mutual interest in intensifying investment cooperation and advancing new promising projects capable of providing additional momentum to the development of the Kazakhstan-Korea Strategic Partnership.
Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue close cooperation on the development of specific projects and financing mechanisms involving Korean financial institutions and leading companies of the Republic of Korea.
Daejeon, June 18, 2026 – Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Korea Asset Issenali held a meeting with President of the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM) Lee Kyung Kwon.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and future prospects of Kazakhstan-Korea cooperation in the fields of geology, subsoil use, critical minerals, and scientific and technological research.
Particular attention was paid to expanding cooperation between relevant institutions of the two countries, introducing advanced geological exploration technologies, training specialists, and promoting the exchange of expertise.
The Kazakh diplomat briefed his counterpart on the measures being undertaken in Kazakhstan to develop the mineral resource sector, attract advanced technologies to geological exploration, and create favorable conditions for international cooperation in the field of critical raw materials.
The parties also reviewed prospects for joint projects in the rare and rare earth metals sector. In particular, they discussed opportunities for cooperation related to the Bakennoye deposit in East Kazakhstan Region, which is of mutual interest in terms of developing high-tech industries and ensuring resilient supply chains for strategic raw materials.
President Lee Kyung Kwon noted Kazakhstan’s significant potential as one of Korea’s key partners in Eurasia in the field of mineral resources. He also reaffirmed KIGAM’s interest in further expanding cooperation in geological exploration, critical minerals, and joint efforts aimed at strengthening stable supply chains.
Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to further strengthen scientific and technological cooperation and implement joint initiatives aimed at advancing geological science, introducing innovative technologies, and expanding collaboration in the field of critical minerals.
The parties agreed that the planned visit of President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to the Republic of Korea later this year will provide significant momentum to bilateral cooperation in the geological sector.
For reference, KIGAM is the Republic of Korea’s leading government research institute specializing in geology, mineral resources, geological exploration, critical minerals, sustainable resource development technologies, and the digitalization of geological data. The institute plays a key role in implementing Korea’s national strategy for securing access to strategic raw materials and promoting international cooperation in this field.
Astana, June 1, 2026 – The International Center for Interfaith and Interreligious Dialogue (ICIID) hosted an international online conference titled “The Role of Religious Leaders in Achieving Sustainable Peace and Development.” During the event, the Center presented two concept documents to its international partners: the “Ethical Code for the Use of Artificial Intelligence” and “The Role of Religions in Combating Climate Change.”
The conference brought together representatives of religious organizations, academic institutions, expert communities, and international organizations from Kazakhstan, the United Kingdom, Russia, Argentina, Thailand, North Macedonia, and India. Discussions focused on implementing the 2025 Astana Peace Declaration and the Development Concept of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions for 2023–2033.
Opening the conference, Maksat Ramankulov, Deputy Chairman of the Committee on Religious Affairs under the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, highlighted the importance of state-confessional partnerships. He noted that the Kazakhstani model demonstrates how civil peace demands joint efforts from both secular institutions and religious communities.
Gulsana Kozhabay, Chair of the Center's Board, emphasized that while faith-based diplomacy does not resolve every conflict, it helps preserve dialogue during periods of acute tension. Referring to the VIII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, held in Astana in September 2025, she noted that Jewish and Muslim representatives remained at the same table and continued their engagement despite heightened sensitivities regarding developments in the Middle East.
She also stressed the need to transition faith-based diplomacy into practical action. These priorities include establishing ethical frameworks for artificial intelligence and mounting a collective response to climate change — two issues addressed by the Center’s current initiatives.
Marwan Sarwar Gill, President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community of Argentina, spoke about the universal understanding of peace in the Islamic tradition. Citing the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, he emphasized that human dignity must not depend on race, nationality, or origin. Imam Gill rejected the notion of selective peace, arguing that a holistic approach provides a crucial foundation for global security.
Yulia Shapoval, Acting Professor in the Department of Religious Studies at Gumilyov Eurasian National University, highlighted the rise of digital radicalization. She noted that religious and expert communities must keep pace with emerging challenges in the information age, arguing that educational and peace-oriented content must become more visible to counter destructive narratives in the digital space.
Ivan Ivanov, Chairman of the Board of the International Center “Alliance of Civilizations,” underscored the importance of critical thinking in preventing ethnic and religious violence. In his view, education should go beyond transmitting cultural identity; it should cultivate conscience, empathy, and responsibility. Philosophy and ethics, he argued, deserve a more prominent place in educational curricula.
Dr. Matthias Bodi of the University of Oxford's Faculty of Theology and Religion observed that deep faith and open dialogue are not in conflict. Intellectual honesty and respectful interfaith engagement, he stated, help build a culture in which disagreement does not turn into hostility.
Several speakers, including Rostislav Novgorodov, Head of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Kazakhstan; Tokzhan Kozhakhmetova, representative of the Baha’i Community of Kazakhstan; and Rudraksha Sakrikar, Rector of Somaiya Vidyavihar University, emphasized the special role of youth. They stressed that youth should be regarded not only as beneficiaries of education but also as active contributors to positive social change, mutual trust, and intercultural cooperation.
Sergei Melnik, Head of the Department of Philosophy at the Russian Academy of Sciences, proposed organizing an international roundtable in 2027 to mark the twentieth anniversary of the landmark document “A Common Word Between Us and You.” The initiative aims to further strengthen Christian-Muslim dialogue and deepen trust between religious traditions.
Concluding the conference, participants agreed on the importance of moving beyond interfaith dialogue toward practical cooperation, identifying sustainable peace, ethical governance of new technologies, climate responsibility, education, and the prevention of radicalization as key areas.
Daejeon, June 16, 2026 – On the sidelines of the International Space Summit 2026, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Korea Asset Issenali held a meeting with Mr. Lee Sung-hee, Founder and Chairman of CONTEC Co., Ltd.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and future prospects of cooperation between Kazakhstan and the Republic of Korea in the space sector.
Particular attention was paid to satellite technologies, Earth observation and remote sensing, the development of space infrastructure, as well as the training of highly qualified specialists for the aerospace industry.
The interlocutors also considered opportunities to expand cooperation between relevant institutions of the two countries, introduce advanced technological solutions, and implement joint projects aimed at the development of space technologies and digital services.
Ambassador Asset Issenali noted the significant potential for further strengthening cooperation between Kazakhstan and the Republic of Korea in the fields of space research and innovation, emphasizing Kazakhstan's interest in attracting advanced Korean expertise and technologies.
For his part, Mr. Lee Sung-hee highlighted the solid foundation of Kazakhstan-Korea cooperation established over recent years. He reaffirmed CONTEC's interest in further expanding cooperation with Kazakh partners and underlined the promising prospects for joint projects in satellite technologies and space services.
The parties also discussed preparations for the upcoming visit of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Korea scheduled for September 2026, as well as opportunities to advance new initiatives in high technologies and innovation-driven cooperation.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides confirmed their readiness to further develop practical cooperation contributing to the strengthening of the strategic partnership between Kazakhstan and the Republic of Korea.
The International Space Summit 2026 brought together representatives of leading space agencies, research institutions and high-tech companies from around the world to discuss the future development of the global space industry and international cooperation in this field.
Special attention during the summit was given to the national pavilion of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which showcased the capabilities of the country's space sector and the latest developments of Kazakh aerospace enterprises.
The Kazakh national stand served as an important platform for promoting the country's achievements in space technologies and establishing new contacts with international partners and investors.
Daejeon, June 16, 2026 - Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Korea Asset Issenali held a meeting with Executive Vice President of the Korea Water Resources Corporation (K-water) Song Young Han.
During the meeting, the parties discussed current issues and promising areas of Kazakhstan-Korea cooperation in water resources management, sustainable development of water infrastructure, and the introduction of advanced digital technologies and innovative solutions in the water sector.
Particular attention was paid to enhancing water-use efficiency, developing intelligent monitoring and management systems for water resources, and exchanging best practices in water security and climate change adaptation.
Ambassador Asset Issenali briefed his counterpart on Kazakhstan's ongoing efforts to improve the national water resources management system, ensure sustainable water use, and strengthen international cooperation in this field.
The parties also emphasized the importance of further strengthening the global water governance architecture. In this regard, the Kazakh diplomat informed the Korean side about the initiative of President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to establish an International Water Organization under the auspices of the United Nations. The proposed organization is intended to enhance international coordination, facilitate the exchange of knowledge and technologies, mobilize resources, and promote more effective cooperation in the field of water security.
The meeting also explored opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation in water technologies, water infrastructure management, and the implementation of joint projects, including the application of digital twin technologies for flood monitoring and early warning systems.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their mutual interest in further developing practical cooperation and exchanging expertise on sustainable water resources management.
K-water is the national water resources corporation of the Republic of Korea and one of the world's leading organizations in water technologies, reservoir operations, water supply systems, digital solutions for the water sector, and water infrastructure development.
Seoul, 12 June 2026 – Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Korea, Asset Issenali, held substantive talks with Bek Jong Man, Founder and Chairman of YPP Corporation, one of Korea’s leading companies in the field of energy technologies and engineering solutions.
The meeting focused on the prospects for YPP Corporation’s participation in a number of investment and technology projects in Kazakhstan’s energy sector, including green hydrogen and green ammonia production projects utilizing wind and hydroelectric power, the development of energy infrastructure and energy storage systems, as well as the localization of high-tech solutions and equipment in Kazakhstan.
YPP Corporation is among the Korean companies actively involved in the development of advanced energy technologies and the implementation of green energy projects. The company possesses expertise in hydrogen energy, green ammonia production, energy storage systems, and energy infrastructure, making it a potentially significant partner for Kazakhstan in advancing energy transition initiatives and introducing modern environmentally friendly technologies.
Seoul, June 11, 2026 – Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Korea Asset Issenali held a meeting with Maeng Sung-kyu, Chairman of the Land, Infrastructure and Transport Committee of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and prospects for the development of Kazakh-Korean relations, including the further expansion of inter-parliamentary dialogue, as well as trade, economic and investment cooperation.
The Kazakh diplomat briefed his counterpart on the large-scale political and constitutional reforms being implemented in Kazakhstan at the initiative of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the key provisions of the new Constitution, and measures aimed at further modernizing the system of public administration.
Special attention was paid to the development of transport and logistics connectivity and the improvement of infrastructure. In this context, the parties exchanged views on prospects for expanding cooperation between the two countries in the fields of transport, logistics and sustainable urban infrastructure development.
Ambassador Issenali also informed the Korean parliamentarian about the progress of the Alatau City project, noting its potential as a modern center of innovation, advanced technologies, education and business. The Kazakh side emphasized its interest in studying and applying Korea’s advanced experience in urban planning, transport infrastructure and the “smart city” concept.
In addition, the parties discussed current issues related to the preparations for the upcoming visit of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Korea and the first Central Asia–Republic of Korea Summit, scheduled for September this year.
Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their mutual interest in further strengthening inter-parliamentary dialogue and expanding practical cooperation across a wide range of areas of mutual interest.
Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Korea Asset Issenali held a meeting with Chairperson of the Korea Importers Association (KOIMA) Yoon Young-mi.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and prospects for the development of Kazakhstan-Korea trade and economic cooperation, as well as opportunities to expand contacts between the business communities of the two countries.
Special attention was paid to promoting Kazakhstani exports with medium and high value-added processing to the Korean market, strengthening cooperation between relevant institutions supporting international trade, and developing direct ties between Kazakhstani producers and Korean importers.
The interlocutors also exchanged views on preparations for the forthcoming visit of President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to the Republic of Korea and related business events aimed at further strengthening the enhanced strategic partnership.
Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their mutual interest in continuing constructive dialogue and implementing joint initiatives aimed at intensifying trade and investment cooperation.
Seoul, June 4, 2026 – Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Korea Asset Issenali held a meeting with Minister of Trade, Industry and Resources of the Republic of Korea Kim Jung-Kwan, who also serves as Co-Chair of the Kazakhstan–Korea Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation from the Korean side.
During the meeting, the parties discussed current issues related to the further development of Kazakhstan–Korea cooperation in trade, economy, investment, industry and technology. Special attention was paid to preparations for the forthcoming visit of President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to the Republic of Korea, as well as his participation in the first “Central Asia – Republic of Korea” Summit, which is scheduled to take place in Seoul in September this year.
The Kazakh diplomat outlined priority areas of bilateral cooperation, including the expansion of investment cooperation and the implementation of joint projects in industry, energy, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, transport and logistics. Particular emphasis was placed on the need to give additional momentum to the economic dimension of bilateral relations and to identify new growth areas for cooperation.
For his part, the Korean Minister shared his vision for further strengthening the Kazakhstan–Korea partnership, highlighting the importance of developing industrial cooperation, promoting technological exchange, expanding investment ties and creating favorable conditions for the implementation of joint projects.
The parties also paid special attention to the prospects for Korean participation in the development of the new city of Alatau City. In this context, they discussed opportunities to attract advanced Korean expertise in urban planning, the development of modern transport and engineering infrastructure, the introduction of smart city technologies, as well as the implementation of investment and development projects. The Korean side expressed interest in further engagement in initiatives related to the development of Alatau City, viewing the project as one of the most promising platforms for expanding Kazakhstan–Korea cooperation in urban development, infrastructure and high technologies.
The parties also discussed preparations for the 11th meeting of the Kazakhstan–Korea Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation, to be held on June 8 this year in Astana. They reaffirmed their mutual interest in achieving practical results in key areas of bilateral cooperation and in ensuring substantial content for the upcoming high-level events.
The Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan is pleased to announce that the Kazakh side is ready to accept 20 citizens of the Republic of Korea for the 2026–2027 academic year under the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Korea on cooperation in the field of higher education, signed on April 22, 2019.
The educational opportunities are offered for Korean citizens wishing to pursue higher education in the Republic of Kazakhstan in relevant fields of study.
Applicants are required to submit the following documents:
For bachelor’s degree programmes, the average academic performance reflected in the certificate of basic secondary education must be at least “B”.
For master’s and doctoral programmes, applicants must hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree with a GPA of at least 3.3 out of 4.0, or its equivalent.
The above-mentioned documents should be submitted by June 30, 2026.
Please note that the chosen major cannot be changed after the official referral.
In order to expedite the document transfer process, applicants are kindly requested to send an electronic version of the full set of documents in PDF format to Ms. Assel Bulekbaeva, Head of Division of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, at a.bulekbaeva@sci.gov.kz, with a copy to Mr. Maxat Kantarbayev, Political Officer of the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Korea, at m.kantarbayev@mfa.kz.
At the same time, applicants must have the original paper versions of the submitted documents with them upon arrival at the designated university in Kazakhstan.
Applications submitted after the established deadline or in violation of the required conditions will not be accepted for consideration.
For additional information, applicants may contact the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Republic of Korea.
Application form