Former Mongolian Prime Minister Gombojav Zandanshatar said South Korea and Mongolia should expand their cooperation beyond the trade of natural resources.

This shift in diplomatic strategy aims to build mutual trust and create shared economic value. By moving toward a broader partnership, Zandanshatar suggests both nations can better support regional stability and security.

During an interview in Seoul on June 25, 2026 [1], Zandanshatar said there is a need for a more comprehensive relationship. He said, "We need to move beyond the trade of resources and create broader partnership and value creation between Korea and Mongolia" [2].

Beyond economics, the former prime minister highlighted Mongolia's potential role in geopolitical mediation. He said that the country is uniquely positioned to facilitate dialogue between conflicting parties in the region.

"Mongolia is well placed to serve as a bridge in broadening regional dialogue to help establish peace on the Korean Peninsula," Zandanshatar said [1].

This vision for Mongolian mediation aligns with perspectives from South Korean leadership. President Lee Jae-Myung said, "Mongolia can be a trusted partner in our phased denuclearisation efforts" [2].

The proposal suggests a transition where Mongolia provides not only critical minerals, but also diplomatic leverage. Such a role would involve acting as a neutral ground for discussions intended to reduce tensions on the peninsula.

Zandanshatar said that deepening these ties is essential for creating a sustainable framework for peace. He said that a partnership based on shared value creation would provide a stronger foundation for security than a relationship based solely on the extraction of materials [2].

“"We need to move beyond the trade of resources and create broader partnership and value creation between Korea and Mongolia,"”

The push for a 'value creation' partnership signals a strategic attempt by Mongolia to diversify its international role from a primary commodity exporter to a diplomatic intermediary. By aligning with South Korea's denuclearization goals, Mongolia seeks to increase its geopolitical relevance while South Korea gains a neutral partner capable of facilitating dialogue with North Korea.