EU and Republic of Korea hold 7th Cyber Dialogue in Seoul
During the dialogue, the EU and the Republic of Korea exchanged on cyber policy developments and discussed the cyber threat landscape and respective frameworks to prevent, deter and respond to cyber threats.
On 20 May 2025, the European Union (EU) and the Republic of Korea convened their seventh Cyber Dialogue in Seoul, marking the first in-person meeting since 2020. The dialogue focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation to address evolving cyber threats and enhance global cybersecurity frameworks.
Key discussion points
Both parties assessed the intensifying cybersecurity threat environment, identifying major actors, including North Korea, as significant concerns. They discussed the characteristics of cyber threats posed by these actors and emphasised the importance of close coordination to effectively counter such threats.
Multilateral cooperation
The dialogue included discussions on enhancing collaboration within multilateral fora, particularly the UN. Both sides agreed to work closely together toward building consensus at the upcoming 11th substantive session of the UN Open-ended Working Group on Information and Communication Technologies (OEWG on ICTs), scheduled for July 7–11. They also addressed the need for enhanced international cooperation in cybercrime investigations, acknowledging the growing sophistication of cybercrime due to technological advancements.
Countering malicious cyber activities
The EU and the Republic of Korea exchanged views on countering malicious cyber activities through multilateral mechanisms such as the Counter Ransomware Initiative (CRI) and the Pall Mall Process on commercial spyware. They reviewed developments in ongoing cybersecurity policy discussions across regional and international bodies, including NATO, the OSCE, and the ASEAN Regional Forum.
Cyber capacity development
Recognising the importance of supporting capacity-building efforts among regional partners, both sides shared updates on their respective cyber capacity-building programs and explored potential areas for collaboration to promote a peaceful, secure, and open cyberspace.
Future engagement
Both parties reaffirmed that cybersecurity has become an integral and independent pillar of international security. They agreed to continue developing the Cyber Policy Consultation as a comprehensive dialogue platform, bringing together key stakeholders to address a broad range of cybersecurity issues driven by emerging technologies. The EU will host the next EU-Republic of Korea Cyber Dialogue in Brussels.
