Diplomatic relations between the Maldives and the Republic of Korea were established on 30 November 1967. . As good partners, both countries attach great importance to a people-centric approach, thus making stronger the social and civil foundation for bilateral relations. The bilateral trade volume is ever-increasing, tapping into investment opportunities. There have been a number of high-level exchanges between the two countries, and Maldivians travel to Republic of Korea frequently. Former President H.E. Maumoon Abdul Gayoom's visit to the Republic of Korea in October 1984 was the first high-level exchange from the Maldives to the Republic of Korea. Likewise, almost every year since 2011, Ambassadors from the Republic of Korea have visited the Maldives on Independence Day July 26. The establishment of the Maldives-Korea Parliamentary Friendship Group mirrors the deepened bilateral legislative ties shared between the two countries.
Republic of Korea also has a number of agreements with the Maldives, including an air services agreement, Economic Cooperation Agreement, Tourism Cooperation agreement, and is in the process of concluding additional agreements in the future. . Republic of Korea has historically been a significant source of market for the Maldives. In 2022, it was the 9th largest market with 35,948 arrivals. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, Republic of Korea was the 11th largest source market in 2019. The Maldives continues to see strong interest from South Korean tourists, with 13,335 arrivals recorded as of May 13, 2023.
Republic of Korea was amongst the generous Asian nations to give a humanitarian response to the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, assisting the Maldives with $3 million (2005-2007).
Educational and cultural exchanges have also played a role in strengthening the ties between the two countries. Scholarships and training programs have been offered to Maldivian students in South Korea, contributing to human resource development.
His Excellency Hassan Sobir is the Non-Resident Ambassador of Maldives to the Republic of Korea. He presented his letters of Credence to the President of the Republic of Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol, on 20 July 2023.
Overall, the diplomatic ties between the Maldives and the Republic of Korea have encompassed a range of collaborative efforts, from economic development, people to people contact, and technical support, which continues to strengthen their bilateral relationship to this day.
