Source: https://www.mk.co.kr/news/economy/11424317

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Stepping into a CU convenience store in central Almaty, one is greeted in Korean and surrounded by Korean products like instant noodles, kimbap, and Pepero. The store mirrors Seoul outlets, showing how Korean culture and business are already embedded in local life.

Korea is emerging as a key partner in Kazakhstan’s ambitious Alatau City Project, a 25-trillion-won smart city north of Almaty spanning 880 km²—larger than Busan. Designed as a futuristic city, it integrates urban air mobility (UAM),drones, autonomous vehicles, green energy, and advanced medical and educational infrastructure into city life. The city aims to accommodate 1.9 million residents and create 1.1 million jobs, while fostering a Low-Altitude Economy.

Over 90% of Alatau City has been designated a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), offering tax exemptions, streamlined residency procedures, and legal protection for foreign investors. Korea, with its smart city technologies, has been identified as a key partner, and Caspian Group has established Caspian Korea to facilitate collaboration.

A key cultural and business centerpiece is K-Park, a 10-hectare hub celebrating Koryo-saram heritage and promoting Hallyu culture, Korean business, and lifestyle. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on 12 September 2025,marking the official start of construction and symbolizing the 1st phase of development. In an interview, Caspian Group Chairman Yuriy Tskhay said: “K-Park embodies gratitude, memory, and legacy. It honors the sacrifices of first-generation Koryo-saram and creates a safe environment for Korean companies to operate. Through Alatau City, Korean firms can expand business while preserving cultural heritage.”

Promising sectors for Korean investment include UAM and drone infrastructure, the hydrogen economy, future mobility, and digital industries like fintech and proptech. Experts see Alatau City as a rare opportunity for Korean companies to export K-Tech, expand global supply chains, and participate in a high-tech industrial hub in Central Asia.