For much of the post-Soviet period, Korea’s relationship with Central Asia has been defined by trade. Seoul saw Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan as emerging markets for Korean cars, electronics and consumer goods. Three decades later, that relationship is being transformed. Central Asia is no longer simply a destination for Korean exports. It is becoming an important part of Korea’s long-term energy, industrial and supply chain strategy. The logic is straightforward. Korea is a resource-poor but technologically advanced economy. Central Asia is rich in oil, gas, uranium, critical minerals and renewable energy potential, but still needs capital, modern infrastructure and advanced industrial technology. This complementarity has created a partnership in which Seoul offers engineering, nuclear expertise, grid modernization and green technologies, while the region offers energy security and access to strategic resources. Kazakhstan is the anchor of this expanding engagement. Oil remains central to bilateral trade, but the relationship is moving toward high