AMCHAM launches program connecting South Korean firms with US lawmakers

by Joonha Yoo Posted : July 22, 2026, 17:12Updated : July 22, 2026, 17:15
An AMCHAM Korea delegation meets with a US senator during the chamber’s 2026 Washington Doorknock program in Washington DC Courtesy of AMCHAM Korea
Participants in AMCHAM's "K-Doorknock" program pose for a group photo with a U.S. senator in Washington, D.C., in July 2026. Courtesy of AMCHAM
SEOUL, July 22 (AJP) - A new program launched by the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM) will give South Korean businesses direct access to senior U.S. policymakers, the U.S. business lobby in Seoul said on Wednesday.

According to AMCHAM, the program, called "K-Doorknock," made its debut with its annual visit to Washington, D.C., from July 13 to 16.

A delegation from about a dozen companies led by AMCHAM chairman James Kim held more than 30 meetings with White House officials, executive branch agencies, and members of Congress including four senators as well as representatives from business associations and policy organizations.

Their discussions focused on South Korea's investment in the U.S., advanced technologies, economic security, and industrial competitiveness.

K-Doorknock is intended to help South Korean companies raise investment priorities, expansion plans and operational concerns directly with U.S. government officials as they increase their presence in the market.
 
Members of an AMCHAM Korea delegation pose with a US senator during the chamber’s 2026 Washington Doorknock program in Washington DC Courtesy of AMCHAM Korea
Participants in AMCHAM's "K-Doorknock" program attend a meeting with a U.S. senator in Washington, D.C., in July 2026. Courtesy of AMCHAM
The program expands AMCHAM's traditional advocacy work, which has largely focused on strengthening business ties between Seoul and Washington. It said it now plans to support investment in both directions by assisting U.S. companies operating in South Korea and South Korean companies investing in the U.S.

Kim said the program's positive response showed that South Korean businesses are increasingly seeking direct communication channels with U.S. policymakers.

"This shows how important South Korean companies consider direct dialogue with U.S. policymakers to be as they expand their operations in the market," Kim said.

He also said the delegation found broad bipartisan support in Washington for the U.S.-Korea alliance, along with growing recognition of South Korea's contributions to key sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, shipbuilding, and advanced manufacturing.

Rather than announcing additional commitments, participants stressed the need to carry out investment and cooperation plans that have already been agreed upon, Kim said.

They also discussed market access, non-tariff barriers, and the need for a predictable and fair business environment.

Kim said sustained dialogue between governments and industry would be necessary to turn investment, innovation, supply chain resilience, and economic security cooperation into measurable results.

AMCHAM said it will continue its efforts to connect companies with policymakers in both countries.