Lee Sees New Growth in Combining Korean Technology With Mexico’s Industrial Base

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has outlined a broader economic partnership with Mexico, arguing that Korean technology and manufacturing expertise can combine with Mexico’s industrial base to create new sources of growth.

Lee made the case in an interview with Mexican newspaper El Universal released as he arrived in Mexico City for a state visit. He is due to hold summit talks with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Thursday.

The president described Mexico as more than a manufacturing location for Korean companies. He said the country serves as a strategic platform for reaching North American and other global markets, giving the bilateral relationship importance amid shifting supply chains and geopolitical uncertainty.

Lee identified semiconductors, aerospace and electric vehicles as promising areas for deeper cooperation. Mexico has a major automotive industry, while South Korea has strengths in batteries and vehicle components. Combining those capabilities, he said, could open significant opportunities for both sides.

Artificial intelligence was another focus. Lee called for expanded joint pilot projects and technological cooperation, saying the two countries could generate demand and develop new markets together. His comments framed the partnership as one that could move beyond conventional trade toward collaboration in advanced industries.

Energy also featured prominently in the president’s assessment. Lee pointed to Mexico’s resources and geographic advantages as valuable to South Korea at a time of concern about instability in the Middle East and possible disruption to energy supplies. Cooperation with Mexico has already helped South Korea broaden its sources of crude oil imports, he said.

The proposed agenda links Korea’s advanced manufacturing capacity with Mexico’s role in regional production networks. It also reflects Seoul’s effort to diversify commercial and energy ties while strengthening relations with a key Latin American economy.

Lee said the two countries could develop a relationship in which they support each other during crises while jointly pursuing growth opportunities. He also expressed hope that his visit would widen cooperation in ways that allow cultural and economic exchanges to reinforce each other.

The upcoming summit is expected to provide the main diplomatic setting for translating that vision into specific initiatives. The areas highlighted by Lee suggest that technology, industrial supply chains and energy security will be central to discussions between the two governments.