South Korea, Mexico Forge Collaboration on Smart Cities

Technologies like AI, IoT, and digital infrastructure are driving the rise of smart cities. South Korea, a leader in digital innovation, and Mexico are exploring smart city solutions to advance these transformative technologies.

On March 11, 2025, the “Roadshow for Smart Cities and Digital Government" event  took place at the Hotel Presidente Intercontinental, organized by the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA). This event, featuring leading South Korean companies, aimed to explore the latest technological solutions for smart cities and digital government. The event was a significant step towards fostering stronger cooperation between South Korea and Mexico in the digital era.

“We are taking the first step toward expanding cooperation in the Information and Communication Technologies industry between South Korea and Mexico,” says Jiyeob Kim, Regional President for Latin America, KOTRA Mexico. “I fully trust that this joint effort will open a future of mutual benefit, built on the trust established over 60 years of diplomatic relations between our two countries.” 

Sanghui Lee, Consul General of the Republic of Korea, emphasizes the critical moment both countries are experiencing in the global digital transformation. She highlights that the Industry 4.0 revolution, once a distant concept, has become a reality reshaping economies and societies worldwide. South Korea’s technology sector contributes 13% to the nation’s GDP, with exports surpassing US$235 billion in 2024. South Korea has been at the forefront of key technologies, such as AI, semiconductors, and cybersecurity.

“With an 80% internet penetration and a highly skilled population, South Korea ranks sixth in the global innovation index and is a model to follow in terms of digital infrastructure,” says Lee.

Meanwhile, Mexico is the second-largest market for smart cities in Latin America, and ranks third in the region on the UN’s digital government development index, says Kim. For example, the State of Mexico is integrating data and technology into public services to enhance accessibility and efficiency, aiming to improve the quality of life for residents in line with the principles of smart cities, explains Jaime Gutiérrez, Coordinator for the Promotion of Economic Development and Competitiveness, Government of the State of Mexico

Moreover, Mexico’s government has also made significant strides in supporting digital transformation. The establishment of the Digital Transformation and Telecommunications Agency is a testament to the country’s commitment to driving innovation and strengthening its policies on digital infrastructure and governance. Kim says that Mexico’s strong industrial base combined with South Korea’s advanced technology can create meaningful results in various sectors, especially in digital governance and AI.

One significant initiative mentioned during the event was the upcoming opening of the Korea City Center for Latin America in Mexico, a collaboration between the South Korean Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport and KOTRA. This center will provide continuous support throughout the year to enhance cooperation between South Korean and Mexican companies in technology and communications.

“I am convinced that Korea, with its strong industry, and Mexico, with its immense growth potential, can generate significant results by collaborating in several key areas,” says Kim.