Pledges Stronger Support for the Event
Considers Lowering the Age Requirement for Dual Citizenship
Encourages Active Participation from Overseas Koreans

On the 5th, Lee Sang-deok, Commissioner of the Office of Overseas Koreans, visited Atlanta to inspect preparations for the 23rd World Korean Business Convention (WKBC), set to take place from April 17 to 20.

During his visit, Commissioner Lee hosted an “Economic Leaders Forum” at the Westin Atlanta Gwinnett Hotel in Duluth, where he outlined key policies of the Office of Overseas Koreans. The Federation of Korean American Chambers of Commerce (FOKACC) also provided an update on the convention’s preparation status.

Prior to the event, Commissioner Lee held a press conference, where he discussed a policy under review: lowering the age requirement for dual citizenship among overseas Koreans.

“We are considering various aspects of this policy,” he stated. However, he acknowledged that public opinion in South Korea remains divided. “Currently, we are in discussions with the Ministry of Justice to lower the eligibility age from 65. If implemented, this change could allow overseas Koreans to enter the workforce earlier, contributing significantly to Korea’s economy and society,” he explained.

At the Economic Leaders Forum, Commissioner Lee described the upcoming business convention as “a stepping stone for establishing a global Korean economic network.” He further emphasized, “The Office of Overseas Koreans is committed to using this year’s convention to strengthen regional and sectoral connections between overseas Korean business leaders and domestic companies to promote exports. To this end, we have personally engaged with leaders of major economic organizations, governors, the mayor of Incheon, as well as executives from large corporations and SMEs to seek cooperation.”

He also pledged continued support, stating, “Upon returning to Seoul, I will actively seek further assistance, and as the event approaches, we will dispatch personnel from the Office of Overseas Koreans to Atlanta to accelerate our support efforts.”

Kim Min-cheol, Director of Exchange and Cooperation at the Office of Overseas Koreans, announced the launch of “Overseas Korean TV” as part of the agency’s policy initiatives, aiming to enhance communication and create a dedicated platform for the Korean diaspora. Additionally, a “Homeland Visit Support Program” is in development to encourage more overseas Koreans to visit South Korea.

Lee Kyung-chul, President of FOKACC, expressed his commitment to ensuring that “this convention becomes a source of pride for the Atlanta Korean community.”

Noh Sang-il, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, provided a briefing on the event’s progress and key programs. He highlighted a significant new feature: for the first time, on-site product sales and a K-food tasting corner will be available. He also noted that Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has pledged strong support for the convention.

During the event, Atlanta Consul General Seo Sang-pyo delivered a welcoming speech, and Honorary Chairman Park Seon-geun gave a toast, warmly acknowledging Commissioner Lee’s visit.

As part of his inspection, Commissioner Lee is scheduled to thoroughly review the event venues, including the Gas South Convention Center’s Grand Ballroom, meeting rooms, and corporate exhibition hall, instructing organizers to ensure flawless preparations. He will also personally assess the status of hotel room allocations and facilities for overseas business attendees.

Source: AtlantaChosun
https://atlantachosun.com/news/407612