Korean tycoons seek stronger ties with incoming Trump administration

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes the stage to address supporters at the Palm Beach County Convention Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, on the 6th. (Reuters/Yonhap)

South Korean business leaders are planning trips to the United States as they seek stronger ties with incoming President Donald Trump.

SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won plans to visit Washington D.C. in February 2025, shortly after Trump’s inauguration, where he will attend the fourth Trans-Pacific Dialog (TPD).

The TPD is traditionally held in early December but the annual conference has been rescheduled to February 2025 due to the U.S. presidential election.

As the chairman of the Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Chey sent a congratulatory message to Trump.

The KCCI plans to invite Trump to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit that will take place in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, in November 2025.

Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Euisun Chung is also planning a visit to Washington D.C., timed with the establishment of Trump’s transition committee.

The Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) will host a U.S.-Korea business conference in Washington D.C., in December. The federation’s chairman, Jin Roy Ryu, is known to have close ties with the Republicans.