The Philippines’ Asean chairship and Korea’s CSP vision

It was only recently that I heard the ASEAN anthem for the first time and realized how beautiful its message is, how appropriate it is for the times.

- LEE SANG-HWA

Titled The ASEAN Way, it includes a line: “We dare to dream, we care to share... Together for ASEAN.” Imbued with passion and compassion, it deeply resonates, especially in this era of geopolitical uncertainty, climate challenges and rapid technological change.

At the launch of the Philippines’ 2026 ASEAN chairship, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recognized these obstacles and said, “ASEAN’s strength lies in unity... together, we can chart a future that is peaceful, prosperous and people-centered.” The chairship presents the Philippines with a unique opportunity for leadership. Laying down the chair’s three central priorities of Peace and Security Anchors, Prosperity Corridors and People Empowerment, President Marcos called on the ASEAN members to navigate the future together.

These “3Ps” run parallel to Korea’s vision under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP). At the 26th ASEAN-ROK Summit in Kuala Lumpur last month, President Lee Jae Myung sought to give flesh to the CSP and reminded the leaders of a familiar Korean maxim: “Neighbors are like family. Neighbors who are together in both good times and bad are like relatives who share blood ties. I believe the relationship between Korea and ASEAN is like that of close neighbors.”

One year after its establishment that coincided with the 35th anniversary of ASEAN-ROK Dialogue, the CSP seeks to both address shared adversities and shape the Indo-Pacific’s future, with Korea acting as “Contributor,” “Springboard” and “Partner.”