Opening of Small and Medium Business Week... 'Innovative SMEs, Soaring Korean Economy'

88 SME Events in 17 Cities and Provinces Nationwide

The Korea Federation of SMEs announced that it will hold 88 events for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across 17 cities and provinces nationwide from the 13th to the 17th in celebration of the 36th 'SME Week.' Every year, the third week of May is designated as the statutory 'SME Week' under Article 26 of the Framework Act on Small and Medium Enterprises, and this year’s events will be held under the theme "Innovative SMEs, Leaping Korean Economy."

The opening ceremony will take place on the 13th at the Korea Federation of SMEs in Yeouido, Seoul, under the theme "Expectations for the 22nd National Assembly," featuring a grand debate on legislative tasks for SMEs. Legislative priorities that the 22nd National Assembly should address first will be discussed to revitalize the management of SMEs struggling amid the complex economic crisis. Experts from academia, research, legal circles, and business sectors will participate in the debate.

Additionally, seminars and briefings beneficial to SME and small business management are prepared, including an online export strategy seminar for SMEs, an on-site clinic addressing small business management concerns, and a briefing on effective strategies for utilizing the desirable payment linkage system.

There will also be discussions on rationalizing the Serious Accident Punishment Act, expanding the allowance of joint actions by SME cooperatives, and other pressing SME issues, along with the grandest festival for SME entrepreneurs, the ‘2024 Korea SME Convention.’

Kim Gi-moon, Chairman of the Korea Federation of SMEs, stated, “Our SME sector is facing difficulties due to high interest rates, high prices, labor shortages, and prolonged domestic demand stagnation. We have prepared a variety of events during SME Week to boost the morale of SME entrepreneurs.” He added, “We hope the government and political circles will actively support SMEs so they can regain strength.”