▲ Signing of Letter of Intent for Sister City Cooperation with Jakarta Governor

Chungcheongnam-do Governor Kim Tae-heum, currently visiting Indonesia to explore overseas markets, has successfully opened doors for exchange and cooperation with a key economic hub in Southeast Asia.

On May 27, Governor Kim signed a "Letter of Intent on Establishing Sister City Cooperation" with Governor Pramono Anung at the Jakarta Special Capital Region office.

Indonesia, with the world's fourth-largest population (over 280 million) and a working-age population (15-64 years) exceeding 70%, along with abundant natural resources, stands as Southeast Asia's largest consumer market, demonstrating high growth rates. Notably, Indonesia shows a strong preference for the Korean Wave (Hallyu).

According to a survey conducted last year by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Foundation for International Cultural Exchange, the favorability rate for Korean cultural content in Indonesia was 86.3%, ranking first among 26 surveyed countries.

The same survey also revealed that Korea ranked first as the preferred country for cultural content, including dramas, entertainment shows, movies, and music, among Indonesian citizens.

Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, covers an area of 662.33 km², slightly larger than Cheonan (636.2 km²) or Seoul (605.2 km²), and accounts for only 8% of Chungnam's area (8,247.54 km²). However, its population is 11.13 million, more than five times that of Chungnam (2.13 million as of March 2025).

Jakarta is also the center of Indonesia's economy, commerce, and administration, with a high concentration of major national institutions and corporate headquarters, contributing 17% to Indonesia's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

As of 2023, its Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) was $225.9 billion, GRDP per capita was $21,166, and its economic growth rate was 4.96%.

This letter of intent was exchanged to establish a friendly relationship between the two regions, pursue mutual benefits, and explore future-oriented cooperation.

Consequently, Chungnam and Jakarta will promote exchange and cooperation across various sectors, including policy and administration, culture, economy and industry, exhibitions and promotional events, and education and youth.

Chungnam Province anticipates that establishing a full-fledged exchange and cooperation relationship with the capital of Indonesia, a key ASEAN nation, will significantly aid provincial companies in their local market entry, export promotion, and expanded presence across various Southeast Asian countries.

At the meeting, Governor Kim introduced Chungnam as "a city leading Korea's economy and culture, ranking second in national exports and third in GRDP, where global companies like Samsung and Hyundai are making massive investments in advanced industries such as semiconductors and future mobility."

He added, "Chungnam has already been strengthening practical exchanges and cooperation with Indonesia through its overseas office, which opened in Jakarta in 2021," and requested interest and support for the business forum and export consultation being held to coincide with this trip.

Governor Kim also emphasized, "I've heard there's an Indonesian proverb, 'The betel nut has split in two,' which signifies a win-win situation. I believe the signing of this friendship and cooperation intent will be an opportunity to create strong synergy."

Governor Pramono Anung stressed, "Jakarta and Chungnam share a common vision of development, innovation, and prosperity." He highlighted that "Governor Kim Tae-heum's visit will be a new milestone in the relationship between our two regions."

Governor Pramono Anung reiterated his anticipation for this agreement, stating, "Chungnam, where major corporations like Samsung and Hyundai are making large-scale investments, and Jakarta can jointly achieve the fruit of prosperity."

Meanwhile, Governor Pramono Anung personally revealed himself to be a K-pop fan, mentioning that he listens to songs by BTS and BLACKPINK while driving, which garnered attention.

Having learned of Governor Pramono Anung's fondness for K-pop beforehand, Governor Kim presented him with albums from the girl group HatzuHatzu, which includes a member from Bali, Indonesia, and the boy group ZEROBASEONE, which has two members from Cheonan, as part of the commemorative gifts.

Department in Charge: Investment & Trade Policy Officer, International Exchange Team

Phone Number: 041-635-2076