Amcham and CBRE Host "Site Selection Seminar 2025 in the United States"

Strategies and Solutions for Expanding into the U.S. Market
CBRE Global Experts Visit Korea
Insights on Incentives, Supply Chain Strategies, and More

The American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (Amcham) held the "Site Selection Seminar 2025 in the United States" on the 25th at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, in collaboration with KDNA, a subsidiary of the global commercial real estate consulting firm CBRE.

James Kim, CEO and Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce, is delivering the opening speech at the "Site Selection Seminar 2025 in the United States" held on the 25th at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. Photo by AmCham

This event marked the first large-scale seminar hosted by CBRE in Korea. CBRE presented practical and concrete strategies for Korean companies preparing to enter the U.S. market.

James Kim, Chairman and CEO of Amcham, stated in his opening remarks, "As Korean companies accelerate their investments in the United States, site selection has become a critical factor for long-term success. Site selection goes beyond simply securing land; it requires a comprehensive evaluation of incentives, talent acquisition, logistics efficiency, and sustainable partnerships with local communities."

He further emphasized the significance of the seminar, saying, "This event combines CBRE's global expertise with Amcham's network, which has long served as a bridge between the two countries, to provide Korean companies with practical and actionable solutions for success in the U.S. market. It also lays the foundation for sustainable growth and further economic cooperation between Korea and the United States."

In his welcoming address, Steven Jeon, Vice President of CBRE, remarked, "For decades, Korean companies have achieved remarkable results worldwide, especially in the North American market. KDNA was established to serve as a single point of contact, connecting Korean companies with the expertise needed to navigate cultural differences, the complex U.S. real estate system, and market environment. We provide comprehensive advisory services throughout the entire process of establishing, leasing, and operating businesses across the Americas."

He added, "As global markets and supply chains undergo rapid changes, CBRE is fully committed to supporting the long-term success of Korean companies. Backed by CBRE's proven capabilities, which support 95 of the Fortune Global 100 companies, and KDNA's expertise, we will continue to deliver actionable insights and proven strategies that Korean companies can leverage in the U.S. market."

In a congratulatory speech, Lee Hojun, Executive Vice Chairman of the Korea Federation of Middle Market Enterprises, stressed, "The United States is the most important partner for Korean mid-sized companies in both exports and investment." He continued, "Last year alone, over 1,100 mid-sized companies exported to the United States, and hundreds of companies, especially in the automotive, electrical and electronics, and information and communications sectors, have continued to pursue challenges and growth in states such as California, Georgia, Delaware, and Texas. This seminar will serve as a meaningful opportunity to explore practical solutions and strategies for many Korean companies, including mid-sized enterprises, to establish a stable presence in the U.S. market."

Jay Bix, Commercial Counselor at the U.S. Embassy in Korea, also commented, "Korean companies are recognized as global leaders in innovation and are bringing that innovation directly to local communities in the United States through their investments. This greatly contributes to expanding U.S. industrial capabilities and strengthening competitiveness. This trend shows that not only large corporations but also small and medium-sized enterprises are building ongoing commercial partnerships in the United States."

During the main session, key executives from CBRE's global headquarters delivered in-depth presentations. Eric Stavriotis, Head of CBRE's Americas Incentives Group, emphasized site selection strategies that determine long-term competitiveness. Christopher Shastok, Managing Director of CBRE's Incentives Group, explained how incentive programs can help reduce corporate costs and create a more favorable business environment for Korean investors. Christine Sexton, Managing Director of CBRE's Labor Market Analytics Group, analyzed labor market trends and workforce supply in major U.S. regions, stating, "The United States boasts a broad and differentiated talent pool across all industries, skill levels, and educational backgrounds, ranging from advanced robotics engineers to skilled welders. This enables everything from high-precision manufacturing in aerospace to large-scale consumer goods production to be accomplished within a single country."