South Korea and South Africa expand strategic partnership on critical minerals and clean energy

South Korea and South Africa announced plans to deepen economic and cultural cooperation, with a focus on critical minerals, battery production, electric vehicles, and clean energy technologies. The agreement reflects a shift in global supply chains as competition over mineral resources intensifies amid the clean energy transition. South Africa, Africa's largest economy, has positioned itself as a key strategic partner for nations seeking reliable access to critical minerals essential for EV batteries and renewable energy infrastructure. The partnership signals growing competition among major economies to secure supply chains outside traditional Western partners.