Georgia Governor likely to meet Korean company leaders

(From left) Hyundai Chairman Chung Eui-sun, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and Hyundai Global President Jose Munoz toasting during the S. Korean carmaker‘s groundbreaking ceremony for an electric vehicle-only plant in Bryan County, Georgia, on Oct. 25, 2022.

Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp will visit South Korea this week and aims to strengthen the relationship with Korean companies operating in Georgia while also attracting new investors. Georgia has established itself as a pivotal hub for Korean companies entering the U.S. market thanks to its attractive incentives.

According to industry sources on Tuesday, Kemp, along with First Lady Marty Kemp and Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson, will arrive in Korea on Wednesday for a week-long visit.

Kemp will meet with top executives from major companies during his stay. The trip echoes his visit five years ago in 2019, when he toured SK On’s (then SK Innovation) Seosan plant and discussed potential collaborations with SK Group’s Senior Vice Chairman Chey Jae-won.

Hyundai Motor Group is a key company on Kemp’s agenda. Hyundai Motor is constructing the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) in Georgia, with operations slated to begin in the fourth quarter of 2024 and completion expected in the first quarter of 2025.

Korean battery manufacturers such as LG Energy Solution and SK On are actively expanding their presence in Georgia. Hyundai Motor is collaborating with LG Energy Solution and SK On to build battery plants with annual capacities of 30 GWh and 35 GWh respectively. SK On operates two more plants in Georgia’s Jackson County and Commerce City alongside its joint venture plant with Hyundai Motor, while Hanwha Q CELLS also runs a plant in Cartersville, Georgia.