Internet Promotion Agency Launches Korea-ASEAN Cooperation Project 'ASEAN Cyber Shield'

Approximately 12 Billion KRW in Korea-ASEAN Cooperation Fund Over 3 Years

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Hye-seon] The Korea Internet & Security Agency (KISA) announced on the 30th that it has received approval from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to launch the Korea-ASEAN international cooperation project "ASEAN Cyber Shield" and will begin implementation this month. The "ASEAN Cyber Shield" project is an ASEAN information and communication cooperation initiative aimed at strengthening cybersecurity capabilities. A total of $9.8 million (approximately 12 billion KRW) from the Korea-ASEAN Cooperation Fund will be invested over three years.

The main project activities include operating specialized online cybersecurity training for ASEAN, researching ASEAN cybersecurity certification systems, and hosting ASEAN hacking defense competitions.

KISA has built and utilized local networks based on its Southeast Asia overseas strategic bases established since 2016, and after proposing the project plan to ASEAN in 2020, it underwent about three years of review.

Lee Won-tae, President of KISA, stated, "By carrying out this Korea-ASEAN international cooperation project, we will contribute to enhancing the nation's status as an advanced cybersecurity country," adding, "Through close cooperation, we will not only strengthen cybersecurity capabilities in the ASEAN region but also provide a stepping stone for capable domestic cybersecurity companies to enter the ASEAN market."

Meanwhile, the Korea-ASEAN Cooperation Fund (AKCF) was established in 1990 to strengthen bilateral relations after establishing a dialogue relationship with ASEAN in 1989. It operates with the goal of supporting development cooperation, human resource development exchanges, and cultural and academic exchanges between Korea and ASEAN.