By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

The American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM), led by Chairman and CEO James Kim, hosted a special luncheon with Charge d’Affaires (CDA) of the U.S. to Korea Joseph Y. Yun at the Four Seasons Seoul on March 18.

The event brought together approximately 130 senior business executives and industry leaders to engage in an in-depth discussion on the future of the U.S.-Korea alliance and strategic economic cooperation in an evolving global landscape.

In his opening remarks, AMCHAM Chairman & CEO James Kim reaffirmed AMCHAM’s commitment to deepening U.S.-Korea economic cooperation. He highlighted that Korean companies have made the highest number of greenfield investments in the U.S. for two consecutive years, contributing to the creation of over 830,000 new American jobs. Chairman & CEO Kim also underscored AMCHAM’s recently launched “Buy America” initiative, aimed at further enhancing bilateral trade and investment collaboration.

He also highlighted the U.S. government’s robust dedication to the U.S.-Korea alliance. “Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the Presidential Inauguration and engage in meaningful discussions with key cabinet members, including Secretary of State and Secretary of Commerce. From these conversations, I sensed a strong commitment to strengthening U.S.-Korea economic ties,” he said. “The future of U.S.-Korea collaboration is bright. With Charge Yun’s leadership and AMCHAM’s unwavering commitment, I am confident that we can further strengthen the economic partnership between the two nations.”

CDA Joseph Y. Yun highlighted “enormous opportunities for AMCHAM and for people doing business with the United States, whether you're Korean trying to open new investments there, or whether you are American businesses buying or selling goods in Korea.”

During a fireside chat moderated by James Kim, CDA Joseph Y. Yun shared his perspectives on the evolving U.S.-Korea relationship, emphasizing key policy and economic considerations amid shifting global dynamics. He addressed key issues including trade policies.

The discussion also focused on Korea’s emergence as a digital and innovation hub and its role as the host country for the 2025 APEC CEO Summit in Gyeongju.

The event concluded with a Q&A session, where executives engaged with CDA Yun on pressing economic and security concerns.

Continuing its mission of enhancing U.S.-Korea economic cooperation, AMCHAM remains dedicated to working alongside key stakeholders in both countries to drive innovation, investment, and regulatory improvements that benefit businesses and strengthen bilateral ties.