Korea, Canada Sign Space Cooperation MOU as Canada Seeks Partner for LEO Satellite Network

**TL;DR**: South Korea and Canada signed a space cooperation agreement at Space Symposium 2026, with Canada looking to leverage Korea's established satellite communications ecosystem for its national LEO network project.

The Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) signed a memorandum of understanding with the Canadian Space Agency on the sidelines of Space Symposium 2026 in Colorado Springs. The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation across Earth observation, space science, space exploration, and low-Earth orbit satellite communications.

Canada is pursuing a national project to build a LEO satellite communications network. South Korea possesses an established ecosystem in the field, making it a key potential partner for Canadian ambitions.

"I expect that the MOU will not only solidify space cooperation between our two nations but also serve as a practical stepping stone for our companies to emerge as key players in the global space supply chain," said Oh Tae-seog, head of KASA.

The timing aligns with Canada's push to expand its domestic space capabilities. The country has identified LEO communications infrastructure as a strategic priority, seeking international partners with proven manufacturing and deployment expertise.

South Korea has invested heavily in its space sector over the past decade, developing launch vehicles, satellite manufacturing capacity, and a growing commercial space industry. The partnership with Canada offers Korean companies opportunities to participate in international supply chains while giving Canada access to established technical capabilities.

What to watch next: Details on specific joint projects and whether additional countries join the cooperation framework as Canada scales its LEO network ambitions.