<New Year's Greetings> Germany's bold infra budget invites Korean investment

Graphics by Song Ji-yoon

I extend my warmest New Year’s wishes to the Korean people and readers of Aju Press. 2026 promises a year of dynamism and progress in German-Korean relations, a partnership built on shared values and a forward-looking spirit.

A shining example of our cooperation is the Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business, returning to Korea in October, having last been held here in 2008.

It connects German business leaders, high-ranking members of the German government, and Asia-Pacific representatives to discuss economic trends, geopolitical shifts, sustainability, and supply chain resilience in the crucial Asia-Pacific region.

Also, the newly formed German-Korean parliamentary group will undertake its inaugural visit to Seoul, following the 2025 elections. Events such as the Economic Outlook in Busan demonstrate our commitment to also engaging with regions beyond Seoul.

Globally, Germany remains steadfast in its commitment to multilateralism, the UN, and its unwavering support for Ukraine. Russia’s war of aggression highlights the interconnectedness of European and East Asian security: The DPRK’s support – providing up to 15,000 soldiers and substantial arms supplies in exchange for technology and financial aid – also threatens regional stability here. Increased pressure and full implementation of sanctions are needed to bring Russia to the negotiating table.

Amidst these challenges, Germany is dedicated to maintaining peace and security on the Korean peninsula. We will strengthen this commitment by participating in the Freedom Shield exercises alongside the UNC, which we proudly acceded to in 2024, demonstrating the continued cooperationof the German Armed Forces.

Domestically, Germany is embarking on a bold modernization course, investing over €128 billion in 2026. This investment reflects our dedication to stability, innovation, and a future-oriented approach, and is channeling funds to infrastructure, digitalization, climate protection, and security-fostering competitiveness and long-term prosperity.

This budget signals our resolve: investment and a forward-looking perspective are paramount in times of global uncertainty. Korean firms will have many opportunities to continue interlocking their value chains and growth opportunities in Europe's largest economy.

This year also marks 40 years of collaborative research and development between Korea and Germany. We will explore new joint research programs in key technologies like physical AI, secondary batteries or new materials. We are confident that continued scientific exchange will drive innovation and benefit both our nations.

Culturally, 2026 will be a year of rich exchange. We begin with an exhibition of the works of German-Jewish surrealist painter Felix Nussbaum, opening on January 27 the (International HolocaustRemembrance Day) at the National Museum of Korean Democracy.

Throughout the year, we anticipate a diverse range of performances, from the timeless elegance of German classical music,including performances by the Dresden Philharmonic, to the electrifying energy of electronic music
pioneers Kraftwerk and the debut of German techno DJ Ben Klock in Korea.

As we look ahead, the spirit of the Fire Horse – with its energy, ambition, and steady progress – will steer our partnership toward new opportunities. I am confident that 2026 will be a year of continued growth and collaboration, further strengthening the ties between Germany and Korea.

German Ambassador to South Korea Georg Schmidt (photo provided by the German Embassy in Korea)

*The author is the German ambassador to South Korea.

Georg Schmidt 편집국장

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