The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Republic of Korea (South Korea) have agreed to strengthen bilateral defence ties, focusing on training, capacity building, and military cooperation.

The development was confirmed during a high-level meeting between senior UPDF officers and a South Korean delegation at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Mbuya on Thursday, April 9, 2026.

The South Korean side was led by Lt Gen Park An-su, Commander of the Republic of Korea Army Training and Doctrine Command.

He held discussions with UPDF Land Forces Commander Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga and other senior officers.

According to a UPDF statement, the two sides explored opportunities for enhanced collaboration in military education, joint training exercises, and knowledge exchange.

Particular emphasis was placed on modern warfare tactics, leadership development, and specialised training programmes.

Lt Gen Muhanga welcomed the partnership and expressed appreciation for South Korea’s willingness to support the professionalisation of the UPDF.

He described the engagement as a significant step toward modernising Uganda’s defence capabilities.

The South Korean delegation expressed strong interest in expanding cooperation with Uganda, citing shared values and mutual interest in regional peace and stability.

This latest engagement adds to Uganda’s growing list of international defence partnerships.

South Korea has previously provided training opportunities to UPDF officers and supported various capacity-building initiatives.

The meeting is part of broader efforts by the UPDF to build strategic alliances with technologically advanced militaries while maintaining its traditional partnerships.