From “Gotong Royong” to “Pali-Pali”: Cultural Harmony Drives Bilateral Economic Growth

Jakarta, July 25, 2025 — Economic relations between Indonesia and South Korea continue to show a positive trend. In 2024, the bilateral trade volume between the two countries reached USD 20.09 billion, an increase of 9.8% over the last five years. Additionally, South Korea was recorded as one of the top 7 foreign investor countries in Indonesia, with a total investment value of almost USD 3 billion last year.

This growth reflects an increase in strategic cooperation and economic vision alignment between the two nations, including expanded market access and cross-sector collaboration.

“In Indonesia, we believe in the principle of Gotong Royong — working together to achieve common goals. In Korea, the principle of Pali-pali is known — the spirit of moving quickly and efficiently. The combination of these two values promises tangible results that are mutually beneficial for both sides,” said Cecep Herawan, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to South Korea.

“I believe now is the right time to build the foundation for the future relationship between Indonesia and Korea and move beyond it,” added Gandi Sulistiyanto, Chairman of GK Group and former Indonesian Ambassador to South Korea from 2021–2023.

As the synergy between Indonesia and South Korea strengthens, various new opportunities in trade, investment, and innovation are expected to continue opening up, thereby fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth for both countries and the region.