India–Korea Partnership Poised for Next Phase with Focus on Semicon, Green Tech: S Jagdip Singh, Hony CG RoK

Honorary Consul General and Chairman of SIGMA Group highlights emerging sectors and complementary strengths at New Delhi seminar

ACN Correspondent On Mar 17, 2026

S. Jagdip Singh, Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Korea and Chairman of SIGMA Group

New Delhi, March 13, 2026: India and the Republic of Korea are entering a new phase of strategic cooperation with a growing focus on emerging technologies, resilient supply chains, and human resource mobility, S. Jagdip Singh, Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Korea and Chairman of SIGMA Group, said on Friday.

Speaking at the international seminar on “India and South Korea (Republic of Korea): Strengthening Industrial and Professional Engagement for Global Competitiveness,” organised by Mata Sundri College for Women in New Delhi, Singh underlined that both governments are actively exploring collaboration in critical and emerging sectors such as semiconductors, green hydrogen, and advanced technologies, signalling a shift beyond traditional trade and manufacturing ties.

Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to India, Lee Seong-ho, and Ms Lee Sang-hee, 1st Secretary, were also present on the occasion, along with several eminent dignitaries from academia, diplomacy, government, and industry, underscoring the occasion’s significance.

Highlighting the historical depth of the relationship, Singh pointed out that India and Korea share a unique legacy, having both experienced colonial rule and celebrating their Independence Day on August 15. He noted that diplomatic relations, established in 1973, have steadily evolved into a “Special Strategic Partnership,” reflecting the increasing importance of bilateral ties in the global context.

Emphasising the economic dimension, Singh stated that South Korea has emerged as the fifth largest source of investment in India, with major companies such as LG, Samsung, and Hyundai becoming household names through their strong manufacturing and service presence. He noted that these investments have not only strengthened industrial linkages but also contributed significantly to job creation and technology transfer.

A key highlight of his address was the complementary nature of the two economies, which he described as a natural foundation for deeper collaboration. While India offers a vast consumer market, cost-effective labour, a thriving startup ecosystem, and digital innovation, Korea brings technological expertise, advanced manufacturing capabilities, research and development strength, and world-class professional training systems.

Singh also underscored the importance of cultural and people-to-people ties in strengthening the partnership. He referred to initiatives such as the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Seoul and the growing popularity of Korean culture in India—including K-pop, K-drama, language, and cuisine—as key drivers of mutual understanding and engagement.

Looking ahead, he expressed confidence that shared values such as democracy, human rights, and the rule of law would continue to anchor the relationship, while new areas of cooperation would further enhance bilateral engagement. He noted that initiatives like the seminar provide an important platform to deepen dialogue between academia, industry, and policymakers, and could inspire similar collaborative efforts in the future.

The seminar brought together diplomats, academicians, and industry leaders to deliberate on strengthening India–Korea industrial and professional engagement for global competitiveness, reflecting the growing momentum in bilateral ties.

The event was attended by Prof. (Dr.) Harpreet Kaur, Principal of Mata Sundri College for Women, who delivered the welcome address, setting the tone for the session. Sr. Jagdip Singh, Chairman of SIGMA Group and Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Korea, attended as the Distinguished Guest of Honour, while Ambassador (Retd.) C. Rajasekhar, Vice President of the India-ROK Friendship Society, joined as the Guest of Honour. Siddharth Rajhans, Deputy Secretary, Government of India, presently serving at the United Nations, also attended as the Guest of Honour. The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Charan Singh, Executive Officer of EGROW Foundation and former Senior Economist at the IMF. The gathering further benefitted from insights shared by Prof. Sumita Rai, Dean of Industry Connect (MDI–Hyundai Program), as a Distinguished Speaker. Prof. Anju Vali Tikoo, Member of the Governing Body of Mata Sundri College for Women and Head and Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Delhi, and Seminar Advisor Prof Jagjit Singh Sabharwal, were also present on the occasion.