South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it held the first joint meeting of “Korea Desk” officers on May 4 in Maryland.
Since March last year, the government has appointed honorary Korea Desk officers in U.S. state governments to support the activities of Korean companies and expatriates. The program is currently operating in 38 out of 50 states. The meeting was held on the sidelines of the SelectUSA Investment Summit 2026, hosted by the US Department of Commerce.
The ministry said the event marked the first time Korea Desk officers from across the United States gathered in one place since the program’s launch, calling it a step toward institutionalizing Korea-U.S. cooperation at the state level. About 50 participants, including governors, state officials, and representatives of Korean companies, attended.
South Korean Ambassador to the U.S. Kang Kyung-wha said the bilateral alliance is evolving beyond security into a comprehensive strategic partnership encompassing advanced technology and the economy, urging Korea Desk officers to act as key facilitators on the ground.
Attending governors also highlighted South Korea as a major investment and trade partner and expressed expectations for expanded economic cooperation through the Korea Desk initiative. Wes Moore pointed to potential collaboration in biotechnology and quantum technology, while Pat Wilson emphasized achievements in mobility and battery cooperation, according to the ministry.