Singapore-Republic of Korea Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty and Extradition Treaty Will Come Into Force on 7 June 2026

5 June 2026 Posted in Press releases

1. The Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (“MLAT”) and the Extradition Treaty (“ET”) between the Government of the Republic of Singapore and the Government of the Republic of Korea will both come into force on 7 June 2026.

2. The MLAT provides a framework for both countries to render mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, covering matters such as locating or identifying persons or items; taking of evidence; and executing searches and seizures. It was signed by Singapore’s Minister for Home Affairs and then Minister for Law Mr K Shanmugam SC, and the Republic of Korea’s then Minister of Justice Mr Park Sung Jae in Singapore on 24 July 2024.

3. The ET provides a framework for Singapore and the Republic of Korea to extradite fugitives to one another. The ET covers offences which are punishable under the laws of both countries by deprivation of liberty for at least two years, and for which extradition can be granted under the laws of both countries. The ET was signed by Singapore’s Minister for Home Affairs and then Minister for Law Mr K Shanmugam and the Republic of Korea’s then Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Tae-yul on 8 October 2024.

4. Both Singapore and the Republic of Korea have now completed the necessary processes to ratify the two treaties, enabling their entry into force. Together, the treaties build on the strong relationship between both countries and will facilitate greater cooperation between Singapore and the Republic of Korea.

MINISTRY OF LAW
5 JUNE 2026

Last updated on 5 June 2026