Report

Institute for Future Strategy, Seoul National University — Economic Security Cluster
Qualitative Analysis Team Report (12 Countries)
Ukraine’s Economic Security

The Economic Security Cluster at the Institute for Future Strategy (IFS), Seoul National University organized a research team of current and former officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to assess and summarize the economic security landscape of twelve key partner countries closely connected to Korea.

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of Ukraine’s economic security, its post-war reconstruction strategies, and potential avenues for Korea’s participation. The war that began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has evolved beyond a confrontation between liberal democracies and authoritarian regimes—it has triggered a multidimensional global crisis across supply chains, food systems, energy, and finance. Geopolitically located at the heart of Eurasia, Ukraine holds vast agricultural and mineral resources and possesses high potential for cooperation in sectors such as IT and aerospace technology. Moreover, its highly skilled human capital positions Ukraine as a pivotal axis in the future reconfiguration of the global economic order.

The study proposes that Ukraine’s recovery should move beyond a conventional “Re-Building” approach toward a “New-Building” vision—one that integrates the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, carbon neutrality, and digital innovation to establish a forward-looking model for national development. Within this context, the report suggests that Korea, as a leading democratic nation in Asia, can play the role of a mediator and leadership partner in shaping Ukraine’s reconstruction strategy alongside Western allies pursuing a Marshall Plan-style initiative.

Drawing upon Korea’s extensive postwar reconstruction experience and industrial and technological capabilities, the report identifies strong cooperation potential in areas such as smart cities, smart farming, healthcare and biotechnology, renewable energy, and education. On this foundation, Korea can take a leading role in advancing a Eurasian SDGs Silk Road Initiative and developing a multi-layered economic security network that promotes inclusive prosperity.

Specific Korea–Ukraine cooperation initiatives proposed include:

1. Establishing urban reconstruction and industrial clusters;

2. Promoting agriculture–energy integrated megaprojects;

3. Creating employment opportunities for women and youth and enhancing human capital;

4. Building local government– and private sector–driven cooperation platforms.

Ultimately, Korea’s participation in Ukraine’s reconstruction carries significant strategic implications: it strengthens Korea’s global leadership, promotes supply chain diversification, and advances inclusive growth through expanded Eurasian cooperation.

Keywords:
Ukraine, economic security, post-war reconstruction, New-Building, SDG–ESG linkage, global leadership, supply chain diversification, inclusive prosperity