The World Federation of Overseas Korean Traders Association, known as World-OKTA, has further solidified its global presence by establishing three new chapters in Central and South America. These additions bring the organization's network to an impressive 156 chapters across 76 countries, a testament to the continuous expansion of the Korean business diaspora.
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
On September 8, World-OKTA inaugurated its Santo Domingo chapter in the Dominican Republic. The founding ceremony, held at the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, was attended by key figures including Ambassador Lee Sang-yeol, World-OKTA Chairman Park Jong-bum, and Chapter President Choi Sang-kyun.
In his welcoming address, Choi Sang-kyun emphasized the chapter's mission to serve as a platform for Korean business leaders to share information, collaborate, and create new ventures. He also highlighted the commitment to contributing to the local community. Ambassador Lee Sang-yeol and KOTRA’s Santo Domingo director, Lee Ju-sang, pledged their full support to the new chapter, aiming to create a powerful synergy for success.
Chairman Park Jong-bum remarked that the establishment of the Santo Domingo chapter, the 154th in the network at the time, is powerful evidence of the ongoing expansion of the Korean business network. He affirmed World-OKTA's dedication to assisting local SMEs in their global expansion and nurturing the next generation of Korean business leaders.
Panama City, Panama
The expansion continued on September 9 with the launch of the Panama City chapter at the Hotel Intercontinental Miramar. This new addition brought the organization to 155 chapters globally. The event drew numerous dignitaries, including Korean Ambassador Han Byung-jin and Chapter President Lee Geun-sung.
President Lee Geun-sung expressed his resolve to foster the personal growth of each member and build a solid foundation for the next generation of Korean entrepreneurs in Panama. Chairman Park Jong-bum stated his hope that the chapter will serve as a gateway for Korean SMEs to enter the Panamanian market, thereby boosting trade and exchange between the two nations.
San Jose, Costa Rica
The third and final new chapter, located in San Jose, Costa Rica, was officially launched on September 10. The establishment of this chapter further strengthens World-OKTA's foothold in Central America.
Chapter President Lee Seok-hee shared his vision for the San Jose chapter to become a key economic platform where the Korean community and local society can collaborate and thrive. He pointed to Costa Rica’s political stability, high education levels, and growing tourism sector as promising areas for future growth. Ambassador Jeon Keun-seok praised the chapter's role in fostering the next generation of business leaders and making meaningful contributions to the community.
Chairman Park Jong-bum reaffirmed World-OKTA's commitment to supporting each chapter, ensuring they grow into strong, symbiotic entities within their respective local societies. Jang Won, World-OKTA's Central American Regional Chairman, hailed the new chapters as a significant milestone, representing not just a numerical increase but a qualitative leap forward for the organization's network in Central and South America.
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