South Korea’s economic development has had a strong impact on its relations with the major powers in the international community. Equally transformative has been the effect on Seoul’s relations with the developing world. South Korea was once a member of this group, but through its policies, hard work, and ability to adapt, it has been able to climb into the ranks of the developed OECD member states. As a rising middle power with few natural resources, South Korea has sought closer ties with the resource-rich countries of the developing world, along with increased market access for its manufactured goods and world-class high-tech products.

South Korea has also done much to assist developing countries in working toward sustainable development by expanding its foreign aid programs while organizing and participating in various regional forums to help promote development. The developing world has looked to South Korea as an economic role model to help chart a course for further growth. Indeed, many in the region view South Korea as less predatory and a force to balance the big outside economic players – China, the United States, and Japan – that seek market access and influence. Having once been a poor country that struggled to develop, South Korea is now an important player and sought-after economic and security partner in the developing world.