KOREA FOUNDATION

Ever-Expanding Korea-Qatar Relationship

South Korea and Qatar established their diplomatic relations in 1974 and ever since, many Korean enterprises, including Samsung, Hyundai, SK, and LOTTEbusiness groups, have made inroads into the peninsular Arab country. The majority of Koreans residing in Qatar are men who are employed by Korean firms operating there or work as professors or taekwondo instructors.

Qatar is one of the major markets for Korean construction companies, many of which seem to have left favorable impressions on Qatari citizens by carrying out a considerable number of national projects and building operations. Korean firms also took part in the designing of the Al Thumama Stadium before the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and participated in multiple projects, including the Doha Metro, the Lusail Expressway, the Facility E Independent Water & Power Project, and the National Museum of Qatar. The latter’s extraordinary design was featured on the country’s new 200 riyal banknote issued in 2020. The Lusail Plaza Towers, the highest tower complex in the city, were also constructed by a Korean company.

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of formal ties this year, Korea and Qatar will expand cooperation in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) field. Qatar is one of the top three suppliers of LNG, and the two countries will promote cooperation for LNG carrier construction and shipping. Bilateral collaboration is also expected to diversify into culture, sports, and other fields, in addition to the already firm economic relations.

Lusail Plaza Towers. Towers 3 and 4 are the tallest buildings in Qatar.

The National Museum of Qatar, featured on the country’s new 200 riyal banknote issued in 2020.

QatarNational Museum of QatarLusail Plaza Towersdesigning of the Al Thumama Stadium