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[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] South Korea will participate in the G7 “Critical Minerals Meeting” convened by the United States to address supply chain vulnerabilities, particularly in response to China’s dominance in rare earth resources. The move opens the door for Seoul to join a broader coalition of key mineral consumers.

According to Reuters on Jan. 11, citing a senior U.S. official, the meeting is scheduled for the evening of Jan. 12 in Washington, D.C., and will bring together ministers from the G7 nations—U.S., Japan, U.K., Canada, Germany, France, Italy—as well as South Korea, India, Australia, the European Union, and Mexico.

Participants represent major consumers of critical minerals used in semiconductors, batteries, and other high-tech industries, collectively accounting for approximately 60% of global demand. The discussions are expected to focus on the urgency of securing stable supplies amid China’s near-monopoly on rare earths, lithium, and cobalt.

“One of the key themes is urgency,” the official said. “There are differing perspectives, and many countries are affected by this issue, so we need to move quickly. The U.S. is convening everyone and sharing our plans with those who recognize the severity and are ready to act alongside us.”

While a joint statement is anticipated following the meeting, officials indicate that concrete collective action is unlikely. The session underscores ongoing efforts by the U.S. and allies, including agreements with Australia and Ukraine, to reduce reliance on Chinese critical mineral supplies and strengthen resilient supply chains for advanced technologies.

 

 

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