Lee Gyu-lee is a business writer at The Korea Times, focusing primarily on IT & telecommunications, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and KOTRA. Prior to this, she has covered a wide range of cultural news, from film, television and K-pop to lifestyle and fashion.
AMCHAM, Qualcomm host inaugural ball, attract 800 leaders
American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM) Chairman & CEO James Kim delivers his opening remarks during the AMCHAM Inaugural Ball 2026 in Seoul, Friday. Courtesy of AMCHAM
By Lee Gyu-lee
The American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM) hosted its flagship annual event, the AMCHAM Inaugural Ball 2026, in Seoul on Friday, in collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies, bringing together more than 800 leaders from the business, government and diplomatic communities.
As AMCHAM’s largest annual gathering and one of its most anticipated events, the black-tie gala served as a premier networking platform while also marking the inauguration of AMCHAM’s 2026 board of governors. The event introduced the chamber’s new leadership and outlined its strategic direction for the year ahead.
Held under the theme “AI Closer to You,” this year’s event spotlighted the growing role of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of business and cross-border collaborations. It also underscored the continued importance of trust-based partnerships in driving sustainable growth amid rapid innovation.
In his opening remarks, AMCHAM Chairman and CEO James Kim emphasized the importance of collaboration in an era of accelerating technological change. While artificial intelligence is transforming industries, he noted, the strength of the Korea-U.S. economic partnership remains rooted in shared values and people-to-people ties.
Kim also noted that the event coincides with the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, calling it a milestone that reflects a longstanding spirit of innovation and partnership between the two countries.
“We are pleased to cohost this event with Qualcomm this year,” Kim said. “Collaboration with global technology leaders like Qualcomm will play a critical role in accelerating next-generation innovations, including AI, and in creating new opportunities for bilateral economic growth.”
Congratulatory remarks followed from James Heller, charge d’affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, and Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo, both of whom underscored the importance of robust public-private cooperation in strengthening Korea-U.S. economic ties and ensuring long-term resilience.
Representing the cohost, Kwon Oh-hyung, senior vice president and president of Asia-Pacific at Qualcomm and vice chairman of AMCHAM’s board of governors, delivered a toast highlighting the company’s leadership in next-generation technologies.
Devices using Qualcomm's chips are displayed at the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM) Inaugural Ball 2026 in Seoul, Friday. Courtesy of AMCHAM
He said Qualcomm has driven innovation in connectivity, high-performance and low-power computing and edge AI for over four decades, expanding AI applications across devices including smartphones and personal computers. He added that the Snapdragon X series is setting a new benchmark for the emerging AI PC era with strong capabilities and energy efficiency.
Kwon also noted Qualcomm’s recent announcement at MWC Barcelona of a 6G coalition with more than 60 global partners, reaffirming its commitment to advancing next-generation telecommunications technologies in Korea.
A dedicated demo zone showcased partner devices powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon platform, offering attendees a firsthand look at how AI technologies are being integrated into real-world applications.
The evening featured auctions, a raffle and a gourmet dinner, creating opportunities for high-level networking and engagement among participants.
A highlight of the program was a live performance by K-pop artist Hwasa, which brought the event to a vibrant finish.
As AMCHAM’s largest annual event, the Inaugural Ball continues to serve as a key platform for connecting stakeholders across sectors, fostering collaboration and celebrating shared progress.
The event reaffirmed AMCHAM’s role as a bridge between Korea and the United States, marking a forward-looking start under its new leadership.