RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is seeking to deepen cooperation with South Korea in energy, artificial intelligence (AI), advanced technology, and human resource development as both countries expand their strategic partnership to address future global challenges.

Indonesian Ambassador to South Korea Cecep Herawan said recent tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, which have raised concerns over global oil supplies, underscore the importance of strengthening energy cooperation. He noted that South Korea has demonstrated strong capabilities in developing new and renewable energy technologies.

"We see the energy sector as a priority area where we need to continue expanding cooperation," Cecep said during the Indonesian Next-Generation Journalist Network event organized by the Korea Foundation and the Indonesian Foreign Policy Community at the Indonesian Embassy in Seoul on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

The ambassador also highlighted artificial intelligence as a major area of collaboration. He pointed to South Korean President Lee Jae-myung's ambition to position South Korea as the world's third-leading AI power after the United States and China.

According to Cecep, Indonesia still faces significant challenges in AI development, particularly in governance and workforce readiness.

In the technology sector, Cecep cited South Korea's experience in nuclear technology development, including projects in the United Arab Emirates and ongoing work on advanced small modular nuclear reactors, which are compact and designed for flexible deployment.

Human resource development remains another priority. Cecep said South Korea and Indonesian National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) are jointly developing high-performance computing infrastructure in Indonesia to support research, skills training, and workforce development.

He emphasized that Indonesia's demographic dividend must be supported through improved education and skills development for younger generations.

"I believe that if we can strengthen our strategies in energy, AI, and education, Indonesia-South Korea relations will become not only more strategic but also more relevant in addressing global challenges," he said.

South Korea is Indonesia's seventh-largest trading partner. Bilateral trade reached USD 18 billion in 2025, with Indonesia recording a trade surplus of approximately 25 percent.

The relationship between the two countries was elevated to a Special Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in April 2026 through an agreement signed by President Prabowo Subianto and President Lee Jae-myung. ***