▶ Focus on building partnerships between Korean startups and local companies, including pathways to Washington State government contracts
▶ KSC to participate in the 2026 WABA Korea Expo, creating a platform for Korean tech companies to enter the U.S. market
▶ Joint K-Startup Demo Day planned for the second half of 2026 to introduce AI and advanced technology companies in Washington State

The Washington State Korean Chamber of Commerce and the Korea Startup Center (KSC) have established a cooperative framework to support Korean startups seeking to expand into the United States throughout 2026.

On March 5, Chamber President Myung-Kyu Oh visited the KSC office in Seattle and held an in-depth meeting with Hae-Jun Jung, Director of KSC, Brian Frost, General Manager, and Joe Cham, Head of Marketing. During the meeting, the two organizations discussed a range of joint initiatives planned for the year.

Connecting Korean Startups with Local Companies and Government Opportunities

A key focus of the meeting was identifying practical strategies to help Korean startups currently supported by KSC successfully enter and establish themselves in the U.S. market.

Both organizations agreed to leverage the chamber’s local business network to create meaningful collaboration opportunities between Korean startups and U.S. companies. They also discussed identifying innovative Korean startups with technologies and services that could potentially participate in Washington State government procurement programs, aiming to build tangible success stories.

KSC to Participate in the 2026 WABA Korea Expo

Another major outcome of the meeting was KSC’s commitment to actively participate in the 2026 WABA Korea Expo & Festival, which is being organized by the chamber.

Both sides agreed to develop the event into a practical gateway for Korean technology-based startups to enter and adapt to the U.S. market. In addition, the chamber plans to collaborate closely with KSC’s various startup support initiatives to expand networking opportunities for Korean startups operating in Seattle.

Joint K-Startup Demo Day Planned for the Second Half of 2026

The two organizations also agreed to jointly organize a K-Startup Demo Day later this year. The event will invite outstanding Korean startups to visit Washington State and present advanced technology solutions—including AI-based products and services—to local investors and potential business partners.

The event is expected to provide Korean tech companies with direct opportunities to connect with U.S. investors and industry partners while contributing to future economic growth and technology collaboration between Korea and the United States.

During the visit, the chamber also presented a plaque of appreciation to KSC in recognition of its contributions to Washington State’s economic development, startup support programs, and the growth of Korean-American tech entrepreneurship.

Seattle Korean Daily
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