MANILA – As the Philippines gears up for its 2026 ASEAN chairmanship, Manila is set to host a pivotal forum on December 5, 2025, exploring South Korea’s refreshed approach to regional ties. Titled “ASEAN-Korea Forum: Korea’s New Vision for ASEAN—CSP (Contributor, Springboard, Partner),” the one-day event at the Admiral Hotel Manila promises to unpack the implications of the CSP framework, unveiled by President Lee Jae-myung at the 26th ASEAN-Korea Summit in Kuala Lumpur on October 2, 2025. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the gathering aims to forge insights for a mid- to long-term engagement roadmap, positioning Korea as a vital collaborator in ASEAN’s economic and security landscape.
The forum, a timely follow-up to the summit, brings together a powerhouse lineup of scholars, policymakers, and diplomats to dissect how Korea can amplify its role as a contributor (through aid and tech transfers), springboard (for market access and innovation), and partner (in tackling shared challenges like supply chain resilience and climate action). “This dialogue couldn’t come at a better time,” noted organizers, emphasizing the need for actionable strategies amid global uncertainties. Key sessions will spotlight Korea’s contributions to ASEAN’s digital economy, green initiatives, and geopolitical stability, with a focus on bilateral wins like the Philippines’ renewable energy push and trade synergies.
Headlining the roster is Prof. Jae Hyeok Shin, director of the Korea University ASEAN Center, alongside Korea’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Sang-hwa Lee. Philippine voices include House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Maria Rachel J. Arenas, DFA Undersecretary Maria Theresa B. Dizon-De Vega, UP System Vice President Dr. Joel Joseph Marciano Jr., and former DFA Undersecretary Amb. Elizabeth Buensuceso. International delegates from the ASEAN Secretariat, Asian Development Bank, Korea Foundation, Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, National University of Singapore, and Korean institutions will round out the mix, ensuring a vibrant exchange of ideas.
The event’s significance lies in its forward gaze: As ASEAN navigates U.S.-China frictions and post-pandemic recovery, Korea’s CSP vision could inject fresh momentum into partnerships, from joint ventures in semiconductors to cultural exchanges. For the Philippines, it’s a preview of its chairmanship priorities – fostering inclusive growth and regional cohesion. With registrations open via the ASEAN-Korea Centre website, the forum isn’t just talk; it’s a blueprint for bolder bonds, proving that in Southeast Asia’s dynamic dance, collaboration is the ultimate currency.