SCOTTISH universities have signed a memorandum of understanding with institutions in South Korea to foster closer academic ties between the two countries.

The agreement was signed by the representative bodies of universities in both countries – Universities Scotland and the Korean Council for University Education at an event at Edinburgh University.

The collaboration between the bodies builds on the success of past visits to Scotland by two delegations from South Korea in 2011 and 2012 to explore areas of co-operation in student mobility, dual degrees and joint research.

Professor Pete Downes, convener of Universities Scotland, said: "Engagement between our two organisations through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding is a welcome step in furthering closer academic ties between Scotland and Korea."

A representative from Korean Council for University Education said: "The memorandum of understanding marks a real effort to achieve concrete actions which will enhance links between both countries and generate bilateral opportunities for students and staff."