Seoul: Cooperation with South Korea is “vital” for U.S. businesses to achieve sustainable growth amid growing uncertainties driven by the boom in the artificial intelligence (AI) sector and geopolitical issues, the head of a U.S. business lobby said Friday. James Kim, chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM), emphasized the importance of the U.S.-Korea partnership during a meeting with Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan, where they explored ways to bolster bilateral economic collaboration and enhance the business environment.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim noted that amid rapid advances in AI and shifting geopolitical dynamics reshaping the global landscape, the U.S.-Korea partnership is crucial for supporting economic security and sustainable growth. He reaffirmed AMCHAM’s commitment to working closely with the Korean government and member companies to help Korea realize its potential as a regional hub.
In response, Minister Kim pledged to cultivate a “more predictable and stable environment” for foreign businesses in South Korea, appreciating the record-high U.S. investment pledges made in the country last year. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources reported that new investment plans announced by U.S. companies in South Korea spiked 86.6 percent on-year to $9.77 billion in 2025, primarily driven by the metals, distribution, and IT sectors.
The minister also underscored the significance of expanding investment ties in future-oriented industries, urging U.S. businesses to persist in their efforts to increase investment in South Korea, as highlighted by AMCHAM.