Milken Institute Hosts First Investment Conference in Korea
Kim Byunghwan, Chairman of the Financial Services Commission: "Resumption of Short Selling Is a Major Step"
Kim Sanghyun, Vice Chairman of Lotte Shopping, Highlights the Competitiveness of K-Retail
A forum was held to dispel global investors' concerns about the South Korean economy, which is caught in a triple crisis of tariff bombs from the Trump administration in the U.S., China's technological rise, and impeachment turmoil.
At the Global Dinner Dialogue hosted by the Milken Institute on the evening of the 27th at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul in Jongno-gu, Seoul, attendees emphasized that despite political uncertainties such as the impeachment situation involving President Yoon Seok-yeol, the growth potential of Korean companies will present investment opportunities.
The Milken Institute, an American economic think tank, holds the world's largest global conference annually, attracting top investors. This event was held for the first time in Korea under the theme "Korea at a Crossroads," with over 200 investors from more than 80 domestic and international institutions, including global asset management firms, attending.
In particular, Kim Byung-hwan, Chairman of the Financial Services Commission, mentioned the 1997 foreign exchange crisis, the 2008 financial crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic in his opening remarks, stating, "Korea's resilience in overcoming these events is no coincidence."
He said, "Korea took bold measures to overcome financial trauma based on the strong soundness of its financial and foreign exchange markets," introducing corporate value-up programs, 50 trillion won scale advanced technology support, abolition of the foreign investment registration system, extension of the foreign exchange transaction market, and the resumption of short selling.
Regarding the resumption of short selling, Chairman Kim emphasized, "While it may seem like a small step to global investors, it is a big step for the Korean financial market," adding, "I want to reiterate that once Korea chooses a path, it will proceed consistently."
He also referred to the ruling and opposition parties' agreement on national pension reform after 18 years on the 20th, emphasizing, "We will continue to move toward structural reforms to address issues such as an aging population, labor flexibility, and regulatory challenges." In particular, he stressed, "I am confident that Korea will swiftly resolve recent political uncertainties through the rule of law and democratic procedures."
Yang Tae-won, CEO of Korea Investment Holdings, cited the undervalued Korean stock market as an investment opportunity. He explained, "The Korean stock market is expected to show a strong recovery in the second half of 2025, supported by the government's strategic economic stimulus programs and eased monetary policy," adding, "Once political uncertainties are resolved, the bond market is also expected to see more active fiscal policies, including additional budget programs, which will lead to potential long-term interest rate increases, providing strategic entry points."
He further stated, "Korea stands at a critical crossroads navigating the intensifying competition between China and the U.S. and China's rapid industrial development," adding, "This complex environment offers unique opportunities for Korea's strategic growth."
Kim Sang-hyun, Vice Chairman of Lotte Shopping, introduced the competitiveness of Korea's retail industry. Citing Samyang Foods' Buldak Bokkeum Myun as an example, he said, "Looking at K-Food, K-Beauty, and K-Drama, Koreans are providing much richer experiences," explaining, "They are offering unique experiences beyond simply selling products to customers."
Vice Chairman Kim said, "In Lotte's case, through venues like ‘Lotte Mall West Lake Hanoi,’ we provide these unique experiences, establishing ourselves as the customers' first shopping destination," adding, "Although global volatility and domestic economic uncertainties remain significant risks, these times also present opportunities."
Lee Jun-pyo, CEO of SBVA, introduced a recent AI startup promotion discussion held at the National Assembly, stating, "Despite uncertainties and major challenges, the ruling and opposition parties gathered to discuss policies on how to nurture AI startups," adding, "More than 20 lawmakers asked and listened about how Korea's AI and technology startups can grow and be supported, which was quite a unique experience for me." He expressed hope, saying, "Korea can create many opportunities by combining excellent talent, technology, regulatory agencies, and government support," adding, "This is a very positive sign."
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