South Korea's Strategic Partnership with Mongolia to Secure Rare Earths Amid Geopolitical Tensions
South Korea is strengthening its ties with Mongolia to secure critical minerals, including rare earths, as China imposes tighter export controls. This move is part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on China for these essential resources. The two countries have signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, eliminating tariffs on Mongolian minerals. However, the transportation of these minerals is complicated by Mongolia's landlocked geography, requiring passage through China or Russia, which could lead to geopolitical interference. South Korea is exploring options to process minerals in Mongolia and transport them by air to mitigate these risks. 
