Kampala, Uganda: Uganda and South Korea have taken another step towards strengthening their long-standing relationship following a high-level meeting between the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and the Defence Attaché of the Republic of Korea to Uganda, Colonel Kim Seha.
The meeting, held at the Special Forces Command (SFC) Headquarters on Monday afternoon, focused on expanding cooperation between the two countries in defence, technology, healthcare, and military training. Colonel Kim was accompanied by his secretary, Ms Choi Yun-Mi, while the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) delegation included the Chief of Joint Staff, Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba.
During the discussions, Gen Muhoozi welcomed Colonel Kim and praised the strong friendship that Uganda and South Korea have enjoyed over the years. He noted that the relationship between the two nations has grown beyond diplomatic engagements and is now producing practical benefits through cooperation in various sectors.
The CDF commended the Korean Armed Forces for their professionalism, discipline, and advanced technological capabilities. He said Uganda values its partnership with South Korea and is committed to exploring more opportunities that can support the modernisation and growth of the UPDF.
Gen Muhoozi also highlighted Uganda’s intention to establish a permanent diplomatic mission in Seoul, a move he said would further strengthen bilateral relations and create more opportunities for cooperation in defence, trade, technology, and investment. According to him, a permanent presence in South Korea would help both countries build closer institutional links and promote mutually beneficial partnerships.
A major highlight of the meeting was the discussion on healthcare and medical training. South Korea is widely recognised as a global leader in medical innovation, advanced healthcare systems, modern surgical procedures, biomedical research, and emergency medicine. Gen Muhoozi welcomed the prospect of deeper cooperation in the medical field, describing it as an important area that can improve the welfare and operational readiness of Uganda’s military personnel.
In response, Colonel Kim thanked the CDF for the warm reception and constructive engagement. He reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Uganda and pledged to support the training of UPDF officers in medical-related courses. He said Korea’s expertise in military medicine and healthcare could play a key role in enhancing the capabilities of Uganda’s armed forces.
Colonel Kim also welcomed Uganda’s plans to open a permanent mission in Seoul, noting that such a move would further deepen the already strong ties between the two countries and create a stronger platform for future collaboration.
The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to broadening cooperation beyond traditional defence matters. They agreed to continue working together in areas such as technology, healthcare, professional military training, and other sectors that contribute to national development and the welfare of service personnel.
The discussions underscored the growing partnership between Uganda and South Korea, reflecting a shared commitment to innovation, capacity building, and stronger people-to-people and institutional relations. As both nations continue to expand cooperation, the partnership is expected to deliver lasting benefits for their defence forces and citizens alike.
