CENTRAL ASIA IN THE "K-SILK ROAD" INITIATIVE: ISSUES OF STRATEGIC AUTONOMY AND RESOURCE DIVERSIFICATION

This article analyzes South Korea’s foreign policy toward Central Asia within the framework of its “middle power” identity. It examines the evolution of Seoul’s regional engagement, emphasizing the strategic role of the K-Silk Road initiative launched in 2024 as a mechanism for deepening cooperation in trade, investment, energy, transport, and advanced technologies. The study highlights the complementary nature of relations between South Korea and Central Asian states, where technological capabilities are exchanged for access to natural and mineral resources. Particular attention is given to the geopolitical context shaped by the dominant influence of China and Russia, which constrains but does not prevent Seoul’s growing regional activism. The paper also identifies key priority areas, including technological cooperation and labor migration, as structural pillars of long-term engagement. Based on empirical data and recent policy developments, the research concludes that South Korea’s approach is pragmatic, multi-vector, and aimed at strengthening its economic presence and geopolitical role while supporting diversification strategies in Central Asia.