President Lee Jae-myung is embarking on a major 7-night, 11-day overseas tour spanning the Americas and key European nations. The itinerary includes five countries in total: the United States, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and Germany.
The Office of the President stated that this tour focuses on "economic security diplomacy," aiming to solidify global cooperation in future advanced industries such as artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductors, while diversifying supply chains for critical minerals—including lithium and copper—and energy. At the same time, a blueprint to significantly expand engagement with overseas Korean communities was presented.
Establishing a 'ROK-US AI Alliance' in Silicon Valley... Series of Meetings with Global Tech Giants
In his first destination, the United States, President Lee will visit Washington, D.C. and San Francisco, a premier technology hub. Following annual consultations between the diplomatic, security, and economic authorities of both countries in Washington, D.C., he will travel to Silicon Valley, San Francisco, to meet with CEOs of global Big Tech companies.
Discussions will center on establishing a ROK-US AI alliance, joint research and development (R&D) for next-generation semiconductors, and measures to maintain the stability of advanced manufacturing supply chains. The government plans to enhance technical cooperation frameworks with Silicon Valley firms, thereby expanding opportunities for domestic companies to enter the U.S. market and securing leadership in the global high-tech ecosystem.
Visiting 3 South American Nations... Expanding Supply Chain Territory for 'Critical Minerals and Food Security'
President Lee will subsequently visit three South American nations: Brazil, Chile, and Argentina. The central keyword for the South American leg of the tour is "securing key resources."
By strengthening cooperation with Chile and Argentina—home to the world's largest lithium reserves—and Brazil, which possesses abundant copper and essential raw materials for batteries, the administration plans to build a robust supply chain for next-generation battery and electric vehicle industries. The signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) for mid- to long-term cooperation in food and energy sectors is also under strong consideration.
In Germany, the final stop of the tour, technology partnerships with Europe's manufacturing powerhouse will be reinforced. Major agenda items will include exchange measures in advanced manufacturing to prepare for the carbon-neutral era, such as eco-friendly industries, future mobility, and the transition to renewable energy.
Four Meetings with Overseas Korean Communities in Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and Germany
Expanding network ties with the overseas Korean community is another key objective of this trip. The Office of the President formally announced that a total of four meetings with Korean expatriates will take place during the tour.
July 28: São Paulo, Brazil (Luncheon)
July 29: Santiago, Chile (Dinner)
July 31: Buenos Aires, Argentina (Dinner)
August 2: Frankfurt, Germany (Community Meeting)
Local Korean associations and business organizations are preparing welcoming events featuring next-generation Korean leaders and prominent figures from various fields. An official from the Office of the President noted, "This tour served not only as an opportunity to broaden the horizon for South Korea's advanced industries, but also became a milestone in bolstering the bond between the overseas Korean community and their homeland."
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