UK, South Korea ink deal to deepen 'long-standing relationship'

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday signed an agreement to enhance bilateral ties, accelerating cooperation on technology, defense and security.

The prime minister's office said Sunak and Yoon signed the Downing Street Accord, "an agreement that deepens our long-standing relationship."

"Stepping up cooperation on technology, defence and security. We've also agreed to start negotiations on an updated, modern Free Trade Agreement," the office said on X.

Praising the ties with South Korea, Sunak also expressed pleasure to welcome the visiting president in London on a state visit.

"The cultural, economic and security ties our countries share have never been stronger. Let's build on these even more in the years ahead!," Sunak added.

Earlier, the government announced that the UK signed a memorandum with South Korea to strengthen government digital services.

As part of the deal, the two countries will work together on innovative areas such as AI and cloud native services. The UK's Government Digital Service will also work with representatives from South Korea to share best practices.