Koo Yoon-chul Meets AMCHAM: “Building Momentum for Korea’s Rightful ‘Korea Premium’ Recognition”

by Park Joonyi

Published 28 Apr.2026 16:48(KST)

"Full Commitment to Advancing the Capital Market"

James Kim, Chairman and CEO of the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM), met with Koo Yoon-chul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, to propose policy directions aimed at strengthening Korea's competitiveness in attracting Asia Regional Headquarters (RHQ) and emphasized the need for public-private cooperation. In response, Minister Koo pledged to build momentum so that Korea's capital market can be recognized for its rightful Korea Premium.

On the afternoon of April 28, James Kim met with Koo Yoon-chul at the Government Complex Seoul to discuss major policy directions for advancing Korea as a global financial hub and enhancing its competitiveness in attracting Asia Regional Headquarters.

This meeting was arranged in connection with AMCHAM's publication of its first special report on the financial sector in March, titled “Korea's Financial Hub Agenda.” The report outlines a total of 39 policy tasks (including 10 key priorities), focusing on enhancing regulatory transparency, strengthening alignment with global standards, and improving market accessibility.

James Kim, Chairman and CEO of the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM), is meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Koo Yoon-chul. AMCHAM.

During the meeting, Kim stated that Korea has ample potential to grow as a base for Asia Regional Headquarters and that global companies continue to show strong interest.

He also referenced the results of AMCHAM’s “2026 Korea Business Environment Survey,” noting that Korea ranked third in Asia Regional Headquarters preference. He stressed that, compared to its previous position at second place, it is becoming increasingly important to respond to recent changes in the competitive landscape. Furthermore, with Singapore and Hong Kong strengthening their positions as financial centers, he emphasized that Korea needs to further expand its foundation for attracting global investment by enhancing its own financial industry competitiveness.

He remarked, “As Korea’s potential inclusion in the MSCI Developed Markets Index is being discussed, now is a critical moment for Korea to leap forward as a global financial hub. Based on the policy tasks presented in this special report, AMCHAM looks forward to working closely with the Ministry of Economy and Finance to strengthen market competitiveness and improve the investment environment.”

Minister Koo said, “The Korean government is making every effort to advance the capital market as a core platform for economic growth and to bring it up to global standards. We will faithfully implement the tasks announced in the MSCI roadmap to build momentum so that Korea's capital market can be recognized for its rightful Korea Premium.”

Both parties agreed on the need to continue public-private cooperation to enhance Korea's investment environment and global competitiveness, and decided to have more in-depth discussions on key issues related to the financial hub initiative.

AMCHAM stated, “Going forward, we will continue to provide ongoing support to help Korea establish itself as a core global investment destination and a competitive Asia Regional Headquarters hub, working closely with the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Korean government.”