Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the USA

Greetings; I am Hyundong Cho, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the United States.

Despite last year’s many challenges, we took many steps in 2024 to solidify the Korea-U.S. alliance, which has been elevated to become a “Global Comprehensive Strategic Alliance.” We deepened our cooperation across all sectors, and the scope of that cooperation significantly expanded.

In security, we enhanced our extended deterrence through key milestones like signing the "Korea-U.S. Guidelines for Nuclear Deterrence and Nuclear Operations on the Korean Peninsula." Economically, Korean investments in the U.S. surged in critical industries like shipbuilding, defense, semiconductors, and automobiles. Korea is now the largest investor in the U.S. and the top creator of new jobs among foreign nations. This strong collaboration fosters mutual growth and serves as a crucial pillar of our economy.

Looking ahead, we expect 2025 to bring continued international uncertainties, including the war in Ukraine, the Middle East crisis, and shifts in U.S.-China relations. Additionally, we expect new policy developments in the second Trump administration.

Building on the achievements of the Korea-U.S. Alliance, the Embassy is committed to ensuring both our nations navigate these challenges towards shared prosperity. We will continue to work tirelessly to deepen and advance our bilateral relationship in collaboration with the new administration.

Our priorities include fostering active exchanges at all levels to ensure seamless coordination in areas such as security, economy, advanced technology, culture, and consular services. We aim to expand practical cooperation to deliver tangible benefits to our citizens and to achieve meaningful results across sectors through established frameworks of collaboration.

Meanwhile, North Korea continues to enhance its nuclear and missile capabilities and pose significant threats to global peace and stability, including by deploying forces to Russia. Amid these heightened security challenges on the Korean Peninsula, we will work closely with the U.S. to strengthen our combined defense posture and advance our joint efforts toward North Korea’s denuclearization.

As Washington stands at the forefront of global economic security diplomacy, we remain vigilant in monitoring and responding to domestic and global developments. Our efforts focus on maximizing opportunities for our economy and businesses while mitigating challenges. We will also enhance engagement with Congress and expand collaboration with think tanks and experts to bolster domestic support for the Korea-U.S. alliance.

The 2.6 million-strong Korean-American community is a cornerstone of the Korea-U.S. alliance and plays a vital role in our diplomacy. Notably, last year saw the election of three Korean-American Representatives, as well as the first-ever Korean-American Senator. This success underscores the community’s significant contribution to politics, the economy and culture. The Embassy is committed to supporting the Korean-American community to further elevate its standing. We will also continue providing efficient consular services and work to ensure the protection of our overseas citizens.

The trust and friendship between Korea and the U.S. are stronger today than ever. My colleagues at the Embassy and I remain steadfast in our commitment to advancing the prosperity of the Republic of Korea and strengthening the Korea-U.S. alliance.

Thank you.