Alabama Expands Global Presence with New Seoul Office to Boost Trade & Investment
SEOUL, South Korea – The Alabama Department of Commerce today announced the opening of a new business growth office in Seoul, South Korea, solidifying the state’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with one of its most important international partners.
The Department has partnered with Samil PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC),South Korea’s leading professional services firm,to represent Alabama’s business interests in the country. Samil PwC brings over 50 years of experience facilitating trade and investment for both public and private sector clients.
leading the Alabama-focused team will be Sean Blakeley, an international business development expert, supported by Carol Yelim Choo as Alabama’s dedicated Korea representative. Their core focus will be attracting Korean investment to Alabama, assisting Alabama companies with export opportunities, and coordinating participation in key trade events and business missions.
“South Korea has been instrumental in Alabama’s economic growth for over two decades, with investments like Hyundai transforming our communities and creating thousands of jobs,” stated Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “A permanent presence in Seoul will further strengthen this vital partnership and position Alabama for continued success.”
Since 1999, Korean companies, primarily Hyundai Motor Group and its suppliers, have invested $9.6 billion in Alabama, making South Korea a top three international investment partner alongside Germany and Japan.
Christina Stimpson, Global business Officer for Commerce, emphasized the strategic importance of the new office: “With a dedicated team on the ground through Samil PwC, we can deepen relationships with Korean investors and better support Alabama companies expanding into this key market.”
The Seoul office joins existing Alabama trade offices in Stuttgart, Germany and Tokyo, Japan, extending the state’s reach across three of the world’s most dynamic economies and demonstrating a long-term commitment to global business engagement.
Hollie Pegg,Assistant Director of Commerce’s Recruitment and Retention Office,added,”This new office reflects our long-term commitment to the Korean relationship,building on billions in investment,thousands of jobs,and a shared sense of progress. We’re excited to strengthen our partnerships and unlock even more opportunities for Alabama.”
