Trade Mission to South Korea

South Korea stands as a pivotal market for California businesses, offering a multitude of compelling reasons to explore its dynamic opportunities:

1. Economic Powerhouse: With one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing economies, South Korea’s membership in the G20 showcases its global significance for expansion-minded California companies.
2. Innovation Hub: Renowned for its technological prowess, South Korea leads the way in industries such as electronics, EV and auto, software, and gaming, providing access to cutting-edge innovation.
3. Trade Facilitation: The Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (KORUS) and other trade agreements simplify entry, reducing trade barriers and tariffs for American businesses.
4. Strategic Location: South Korea’s East Asian placement offers a springboard to neighboring Asian markets, including China and Japan, enhancing your regional presence.
5. Discerning Consumers: South Korea boasts a discerning and affluent consumer market with a penchant for quality and global brands, spanning fashion, consumer goods, and food sectors.
6. Sustainability Focus: Actively promoting renewable energy and sustainability, South Korea offers opportunities for environmentally conscious businesses to thrive.
7. Logistics Excellence: Advanced logistics and shipping infrastructure make South Korea an ideal choice for companies in the shipping and logistics industry, opening doors to partnerships and growth.
8. Cultural Exchange: International trade missions facilitate cultural exchange, helping you understand South Korean business culture and establish invaluable relationships.

By participating in the 2024 Trade Mission to South Korea, your company can access all these advantages and more. It’s a chance to take your business to new heights in one of Asia’s most dynamic and promising markets.

Don’t miss out on this remarkable opportunity to position your company for global success and experience the potential growth South Korea has to offer. Make sure to apply when the portal opens on November 20, 2023, and embark on an exciting international trade journey that can shape the future of your business.

• March 15 — Depart from Los Angeles
  • Start this exciting journey as you depart from Los Angeles for your trade mission to South Korea.
• March 16 — Arrival in Seoul
  • Arrive in the vibrant city of Seoul, the heart of South Korea’s business and cultural scene.
• March 17 — Welcome Dinner
  • Kick off the mission with a warm welcome dinner, which will provide an opportunity to network and build connections with fellow participants.
• March 18, 19, and 20 (until noon) — Seoul Business Meetings
  • Engage in a series of meetings with representatives from invaluable resources and prospective buyers in Seoul. Gain insights and opportunities in this dynamic market.
• March 20 (noon) — Journey to Busan
  • Transition to Busan, South Korea’s bustling port city, where you’ll explore new business horizons.
• March 20 — Dinner in Busan
  • Enjoy a delightful dinner in Busan, setting the stage for productive meetings in the days ahead.
• March 21 and 22 — Busan Business Meetings
  • Continue your mission with meetings in Busan, connecting with representatives from area resources and prospective buyers within this coastal hub.
• March 23 — Return to Seoul and Conclusion
  • Return to Seoul, wrapping up your journey with final meetings and preparations.
• March 24 — Departure from Korea to Los Angeles
  • Bid farewell to South Korea as you return to Los Angeles equipped with new connections and insights from the mission.

Note: Selected companies will receive additional travel information to assist with their preparations for this exciting trade mission. All expenses for each business for the 2024 Trade Mission to South Korea presented by the OCIE SBDC will be covered by the business.

Selected companies participating in the 2024 Trade Mission to South Korea will receive access to an array of valuable resources, as well as individualized support to ensure each participating business is well prepared for this international venture. Prior to the mission, your business will benefit from:

• Customized Market Research: Our SBDC Global Trade team will provide you with tailored market research specific to your business, offering insights and data to help you make informed decisions and strategize effectively for your entry into the South Korean market.
• One-on-One Export Counseling: You’ll have access to personalized export counseling from the SBDC Global Trade Team. Our experts will work with you to address your specific needs, answer your questions, and guide you through the export process.
• Global Trade Market Preparedness Program: We offer access to the Global Trade Market Preparedness Program, which is specifically designed to get you ready for the trade mission. This program equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate international markets successfully.
• Meetings with Experts: You’ll have the opportunity to engage in meetings with representatives from federal, state, and local resources and experts from the Department of Commerce, SBA Office of International Trade, and EXIM Bank. These interactions will provide you with crucial insights and guidance for your international expansion.
• Diplomatic and Government Meetings: In preparation for setting up meetings with potential buyers in South Korea, we’ll arrange meetings with in-country diplomats and key government officials. This will help you establish connections and gain a better understanding of the South Korean business environment.

With these resources and support, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your participation in the trade mission and ensure a successful entry into the South Korean market. This comprehensive assistance is designed to help you thrive and achieve your global business goals.


Note: All pre-trade mission consulting, training and resources will be provided at no cost to the business owners selected to participate.

The application opens on November 20, 2023, at 12:01 a.m. Selected companies will be notified via email. Please note that selected applicants will be responsible for covering the associated financial costs. 

This is your chance to embark on an exciting international trade journey and elevate your business to new heights in one of Asia’s most dynamic markets. Don’t miss this opportunity to join us on this remarkable venture and position your company for global success.