2023 WKBC (World Korean Business Convention): A Tale of Empowering Korean Businesses Globally

What an incredible journey I had in sunny California last week, immersing myself in the grandeur of 2023 World Korean Business Convention, known previously as #Hansang! Held at the #AnaheimConventionCenter in beautiful Orange County, California, from the 11th to the 14th, this event wasn't just a success; it was an unparalleled triumph, making it the grandest edition to date.

Compared to the previous ones held over the past two decades, 2023 WKBC set records ablaze across the board, from the number of participating companies to the bustling exhibition booths, the whirlwind of consultations, the astonishing contract figures, and the sky-high expectations. WKBC not only met but surpassed expectations. With 7,825 participants hailing from 31 countries, it managed to shatter last year's attendance by a remarkable 3.8 times. And guess what? It wasn't just the usual small and medium-sized enterprises; big shots like Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Motor America, POSCO, and Emart America joined the party.

It was also a coming together of local and national authorities, with the Small and Medium Business Administration 중소벤처기업진흥공단(Korea SMEs Startups Agency) championing the cause of small and medium-sized enterprises. The diverse range of participating #SMEs spanned the spectrum, from finance to environmental initiatives, from cultural enterprises to cutting-edge smart technologies.

As reported by News Korea, throughout the convention, participants engaged in a staggering 17,200 #investment consultations, resulting in on-site contracts worth a cool $19.4 million. And if you're into the big numbers, brace yourself: the expected total contract amount reaches $572.6 million! Adding more sparkle to the mix, U.S. government agencies and businesses opened a world of new business channels right here in the United States for S.Korean companies. To top it off, six state chambers of commerce were also part of this unforgettable event, expressing their genuine interest in supporting the growth and expansion of South Korean small and medium-sized enterprises.

Kudos and congratulations are in order for everyone involved in the tremendous success of the 2023 WKBC, with special applause to the outstanding leaders in the leading committee, event co-chairs, and committee chairs!