South Korea is set to conclude its two-year term as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council this week, marking its third stint on the body. Elected in June 2023, the country focused on emerging security challenges like cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. The foreign ministry pledged to continue expanding contributions to international peace and security.
South Korea's term as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council ends on Wednesday, New York time, concluding a two-year stint that marks its third participation following terms in 1996-97 and 2013-14. Elected in June 2023 alongside Algeria, Sierra Leone, Guyana, and Slovenia, the country addressed evolving global security amid a shifting international landscape.
The Security Council comprises five permanent members—the United States, Britain, China, France, and Russia—and 10 non-permanent members, with five elected annually. Non-permanent members hold equal authority to speak, propose, and vote on resolutions but lack veto power. The council wields binding authority over UN members, including sanctions, peacekeeping missions, and military actions to preserve peace.
During its tenure, South Korea hosted high-level open debates on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence while serving as council president in June 2024 and September 2025. The AI discussion on international peace and security notably bolstered South Korea's reputation as a leader in emerging technologies and highlighted its proactive stance on future threats.
The country garnered attention from the Global South by voting in favor of Palestine's full UN membership, diverging from its initial alignment with the US. South Korea voiced concerns over North Korea's nuclear program and human rights, participating in multiple council meetings prompted by Pyongyang's ballistic missile launches and military reconnaissance satellite tests in violation of sanctions.
It contributed to peacekeeping operation decisions and initiated discussions with other elected members on evolving missions amid complex threats. Amid intensifying regional conflicts and waning trust in multilateralism, South Korea emphasized adherence to international law, the UN Charter, and civilian protection in war zones.
"Building on the experience and achievements we have accumulated as an elected UNSC member, the South Korean government will continue to expand its contributions to the promotion of international peace and security," the foreign ministry stated.
