U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Holds Private Meeting with AMCHAM, Expresses Commitment to Advancing Korea-U.S. Partnership

Deputy Secretary Christopher Rando Visits Korea
Listens to Opinions of Key Korean and American Business Leaders
Discussions Include Tariff Negotiation Outlook and Visa Issues
James Kim: "Meaningful Opportunity to Discuss Key Issues"

Christopher Rando, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, attended a private meeting with the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM) on the afternoon of the 14th, where he listened to the opinions of key business leaders from Korea and the United States. He also conveyed the U.S. government's commitment to advancing a close and mutually beneficial economic partnership between the two countries.

At a private meeting held on the afternoon of the 14th, Christopher Rando, U.S. Secretary of State, and other attendees of the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AmCham) are taking photos. Provided by AmCham

According to AMCHAM on the 15th, Deputy Secretary Rando discussed major external issues of greatest interest to Korean and American business leaders during the meeting held at the Grand Hyatt Seoul Hotel. The event was attended by executives from leading Korean and American companies representing various sectors, including automotive, aviation, healthcare, and steel. The participants engaged in in-depth discussions on strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries, eliminating non-tariff barriers, and strategies to increase investment in Korea. There was also a consensus that improving Korea's regulatory environment is essential to encourage more American companies to consider Korea as their Asia Regional Headquarters (RHQ) base.

Other agenda items included the outlook for negotiations and the potential impact on bilateral economic relations following last month's Korea-U.S. summit between President Donald Trump and President Lee Jaemyung. In addition, the need to expand visa quotas for Korean personnel dispatched to the United States was discussed in relation to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) investigation into the Hyundai Motor and LG manufacturing facilities in Georgia.

James Kim, Chairman and CEO of AMCHAM, stated, "I deeply appreciate Deputy Secretary Rando's leadership in advancing the Trump administration's foreign policy and shaping the future of Korea-U.S. relations," adding, "It was highly meaningful to have the opportunity to discuss key issues directly with Deputy Secretary Rando."

He continued, "This meeting was a timely opportunity to discuss the regulatory and investment environment, as well as the future of Korea-U.S. economic cooperation," emphasizing, "AMCHAM will continue to serve as a bridge between the governments and businesses of both countries and provide a constructive forum for ongoing dialogue."