The opportunity for Canadian business in Korea has never been greater. And CanCham members are getting a front-row seat.
On May 21st, Platinum and Patron CanCham members joined Canadian Ambassador Philippe Lafortune for an intimate luncheon at the Canadian Embassy in Seoul. What followed was a candid, wide-ranging conversation about where the bilateral relationship is headed, and what the growing partnership means for business on both sides.
A Partnership Built on Complementary Strengths
Ten years into the Canada-Korea Free Trade Agreement, the two countries are moving forward. They are going well beyond tariff frameworks into something deeper. It is a genuine industrial partnership built on complementary strengths.
In sectors like energy, defense, emerging technology, life sciences, and the creative industries, Canadian and Korean companies are finding real alignment. What one side does well, the other needs.
The Ambassador put it plainly. Korea is not simply an export destination for Canadian businesses. The real opportunity is in partnership. It means combining Canadian expertise in research, natural resources, and technology with Korea’s world-class manufacturing and global reach. As he said: “The game is to develop a partnership with the Korean industry that can lead to exporting services and goods anywhere in the world.”
The Private Sector Has a Role to Play
Both governments are actively investing in this relationship. Even so, the Ambassador was clear that the government alone cannot drive what comes next. The private sector must step up. “At one point, we need to look the industry in the eyes and say: you’re on it. It’s you that needs to drive it.”
The Embassy Sees CanCham as a Key Partner
Furthermore, Ambassador Lafortune spoke directly about the Embassy’s commitment to working more closely with CanCham. He described the relationship as a “must-do” rather than a “nice-do.” As the bilateral relationship grows, so does the need for a strong private sector voice. “I see CanCham as a key player in helping us drive this forward.” That’s the kind of access CanCham exists to create, and there’s a seat at the table for you too.
Want to be part of what comes next? Get in touch or learn about our membership options.