PH, South Korea reaffirm strategic ties; PBBM invites Lee to visit PH

President Marcos and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung reaffirmed the enduring friendship between the Philippines and the Republic of Korea, vowing to deepen cooperation across trade, defense, and regional security during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the APEC Economic Leaders' Week here.

- Argyll Cyrus Geducos

President Lee thanked the Philippines for its historic support during the Korean War, calling the two nations "very special friends" bound by solidarity and mutual respect.

"The Republic of Korea and the Philippines are very special friends. When we were in a national crisis, the Philippines sent its military to aid us. So, the people of Korea will never forget the contributions and dedication, and sacrifices made by the Philippines," he said.

He added that both countries have maintained a very close relationship of cooperation and support over the years and expressed hope that the meeting would "take that to another level and have much closer cooperation."

In response, President Marcos thanked President Lee for the warm welcome and congratulated South Korea on the successful conduct of APEC 2025, describing it as "a milestone for the entire region."