The Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) is hosting the 'Invest Korea Summit 2026 (IKS)' from November 4 to 6 at the Parnas Hotel in Seoul. The summit has reported a record total of $2 billion in investment projects, focusing on the semiconductor, advanced materials, and energy sectors.
This year's summit, marking its 22nd edition, has attracted over 2,000 participants, including 267 foreign investors and companies. A total of 14 programs will be held, including investment presentations (IR), industry-specific forums, and investment reporting ceremonies.
The summit emphasizes three major mega-projects: semiconductors, physical AI, and data centers, along with the transition to manufacturing AI (M.AX.) and investment attraction linked to regional growth engines.
Of the reported $2 billion in investments, 97% is expected to concentrate in local areas, significantly contributing to regional economic growth. Notable investments in the semiconductor sector include Air Liquide's specialty gas production facility in France, Amkor Technology's expansion of its advanced packaging plant in Gwangju, Henkel's establishment of a research and development center for high-bandwidth memory (HBM) packaging materials in Germany, and Tokyo Electron's construction of a semiconductor equipment and materials factory in Japan.
Investments are also being made in AI data centers by Enscale (UK), as well as renewable energy projects by Gorin Energy (Singapore) and Deep Wind Offshore (Norway). Companies such as Edwards, Valeo, and Ibiden plan to expand technological cooperation in semiconductors, future vehicles, and advanced materials through the operation of domestic R&D centers.
During the international conference, global leaders discussed the theme 'Manufacturing AI Transition (M.AX) and Future Growth Engines.' Companies like Dexterity, specializing in physical AI, highlighted South Korea's excellent manufacturing infrastructure and proposed business collaboration opportunities.
Additionally, various events aimed at strengthening regional connections and investment cooperation will take place, including a local government investment environment forum with participation from 11 municipalities, a global VC startup forum, a financial investment forum, and a forum for returnees to the domestic market.
Kang Kyung-sung, president of KOTRA, stated, "Based on Korea's manufacturing foundation and AI transition potential, we will attract the largest investment ever, leading to industrial and regional growth and economic expansion."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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