South Korean and Vietnamese business and government leaders vow to bolster cooperation in high-tech sectors, supply chains and energy, as both countries look to navigate mounting geopolitical tensions and protectionist trade policies.

In a speech at South Korea's Yonsei University, Lam urged South Korean companies to keep investing in Vietnam and warned of the risk of fragmenting supply chains. "Vietnam welcomes South Korean enterprises to expand their investments in the country, emphasising substantive cooperation in technology," Lam said.

Korea and Vietnam have signed MOUs to expand cooperation in renewable and nuclear energy, aiming for joint projects and workforce development by 2035.

The two nations have pledged to nearly double bilateral trade and explore closer military ties, with expanded arms sales on the cards.

HANOI, - New South Korean President Lee Jae Myung will host Vietnam's top leader To Lam on a visit next week, two people familiar with the plan said, as they aim to boost cooperation on technology at a time of global trade tension that could affect their ties.

Korea and Vietnam signed 10 memorandums of understanding (MOUs) covering cooperation in areas including science and technology, renewable energy and supply chains at a bilateral summit.