Abstract

• This research aims to investigate the relationship between the allocations of the Republic of Korea (ROK)’s development assistance to Myanmar and the bilateral economic contacts. The ROK has a unique experience of a rapid rise from an aid recipient to a donor. It has been sharing its experiences and lessons for the sustainable development of other countries. It is one of the important donors of Myanmar since the 1990s, providing grants and loans. Its assistance increased from USD 1.09 million in 2001 to 8.82 million in 2011, and 34.38 million in 2018. On the other hand, bilateral economic cooperation has been promoting in terms of trade and investment. The primary purpose of development assistance is to promote the economic development and welfare of recipient country. The ROK has fully committed to support the global efforts to alleviate poverty, promote sustainable growth, address global challenges, and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this sense, this study will analyze the approach of the ROK’s assistance to Myanmar, particularly during 2011-2018, by inquiring whether the ROK’s assistance is mainly based on its economic interests or Myanmar’s needs. For this analysis, bilateral trade and investment relations will mainly be emphasized.