GYEONGJU, SOUTH KOREA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. invited Republic of Korea President Lee Jae Myung to visit the Philippines as the two leaders reaffirmed the strong ties between Manila and Seoul during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the APEC 2025 Economic Leaders’ Meeting.

In his opening remarks, President Lee recalled the Philippines’ contribution to South Korea during the Korean War.

“The Republic of Korea and the Philippines are very special friends. When we were in a national crisis, the Philippines sent its military to aid us. [T]he people of Korea will never forget the contributions and dedication and sacrifices made by the Philippines,” Lee said.

He added that both countries have maintained close relations built on cooperation and mutual support.

“Our two countries have maintained a very close relationship of cooperation and support, and we have mutually helped each other out over the years. But I hope that through your visit, we will be able to take that to another level and have much closer cooperation,” he said.

Marcos, in response, congratulated Lee on the successful hosting of APEC 2025 and reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with South Korea.

“I recall the outcomes already that we have seen since our phone conversation, when I was able to congratulate Your Excellency on your ascension to your position, where we reaffirmed our two countries’ commitment to our strategic partnership,” Marcos said.

The President cited the strong ties between Filipinos and Koreans, including cooperation in defense, security, and humanitarian assistance.

“From, as you have mentioned, fighting side-by-side during the war, to providing assistance in times of calamities, protecting the rights and welfare of our nationals,” he said.

Marcos also highlighted ongoing milestones such as the bilateral free trade agreement and upcoming regional cooperation efforts under the Philippines’ ASEAN chairship next year.

“Next year, the Philippines will chair the ASEAN summits, and I see a real opportunity for us to promote a rules-based order, a more secure and more prosperous region,” he said.

Before concluding, Marcos extended an invitation to the South Korean leader.

“I believe that these continuing exchanges are much improved by the people-to-people relationship at every level. And so before I go any further, Mr. President, I would like to invite you to come and visit us in the near future,” he said.

President Lee responded positively.

“I fully agree, and I will try to visit the Philippines some time,” he said.