This spring, Columbus is stepping onto the international stage. On May 20, 2026, Columbus State University (CSU) will host the Korea–Georgia Dialogue, a first-of-its-kind forum bringing together leaders from Georgia and the Republic of Korea to talk about shared opportunities in business, security, and culture.
Organized by the Korean Institute at CSU (KICS), the event aims to strengthen one of today’s fastest-growing partnerships — between Korea and the State of Georgia. It’s not just about policy and economics; it’s about connecting communities and creating long-term opportunities that reach right here into the Chattahoochee Valley.
A Global Conversation with Local Heart
Georgia has become a magnet for Korean investment, from automotive giants like Hyundai and Kia to advanced manufacturers across the state. With that growth, a new story is emerging — one where Columbus plays an active role in the global economy.
The Korea–Georgia Dialogue will offer a space for open and forward-looking conversation among policymakers, business leaders, military experts, academics, and community stakeholders. The goal? To explore how international collaboration can translate into real benefits for local workers, students, and families.
“This forum reflects Choose Columbus’s mission to make global relationships meaningful at the local level,” said Missy Kendrick, President & CEO of Choose Columbus. “We are creating a space where ideas can lead to action — whether through new jobs, cultural exchange, or educational partnerships.”
Who’s Joining the Conversation
The one-day forum will take place at the Cunningham Center on the CSU campus, with an impressive lineup of speakers and special guests, including:
- General Robert B. Abrams, former Commander of U.S. Forces Korea
- Jenny Town, Senior Fellow, Stimson Center, and Director of 38 North
- Ambassador Joon Oh, former Permanent Representative of the Republic of Korea to the United Nations
- Tom Mackay, President of Premium Content, Sony Music Entertainment
- State Representative Soo Hong, Georgia House of Representatives
- Missy Kendrick, President & CEO of Choose Columbus
Additional decision-makers from government and industry are expected to attend, making Columbus a focal point for meaningful Korea–U.S. dialogue.
Four Themes Shaping the Discussion
- Security and Alliance Building – Understanding America’s role on the Korean Peninsula and the future of global deterrence.
- Economic Partnerships and Innovation – Examining how Korean investment drives workforce growth and high-tech manufacturing in Georgia.
- Korean Culture and the Creative Economy – Exploring the global influence of Korean music, film, and media.
- Political Dimensions and Diplomacy – How politics in Washington and Seoul guide the alliance and trade relationships.
Columbus’s Global Moment
Behind the scenes, Choose Columbus has been instrumental in positioning our city for international success. In just its first year of operation, the organization helped bring in more than $745.6 million in new investment and 1,303 new jobs — incredible milestones for regional growth.
One of the highlights? JS Link America, a Korean company specializing in rare-earth permanent magnets, chose Columbus for its newest U.S. facility. The decision underscores the city’s growing reputation as a valuable partner for innovative Korean companies.
As a partner in the Korea–Georgia Dialogue, Choose Columbus is helping connect this global conversation to tangible outcomes — from attracting new business to creating opportunities for local residents.
Professor Daewoo Lee, Director of the Korean Institute at Columbus State University (KICS), said, “The Korea–Georgia Dialogue brings together influential voices to strengthen Georgia–Korea ties across security, business, culture, and diplomacy. We are grateful for Choose Columbus’s support in advancing this forum and in promoting the Columbus region as a place where global partnerships can thrive.”
With an experienced workforce, a pro-business environment, and strong public-private collaboration, Columbus is making waves well beyond Georgia.
Looking to the Future
The Korea–Georgia Dialogue marks just the beginning of what CSU KICS envisions as a series of programs linking Georgia and Korea in education, business, and cultural exchange. By hosting this event, Columbus is not only celebrating international friendship — but also shaping its own future as a global city.
As global and local leaders gather this May, one message will echo clearly: partnerships built on trust, shared values, and collaboration can help communities on both sides of the Pacific thrive.
