Montana governor visits Seoul in search of business ties

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte, left, poses with Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) Chairman Ryu Jin during a visit to FKI headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul, Monday. Courtesy of FKI

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte met with Korean industry leaders and government officials Monday to seek synergy between the nation's industrial capabilities and the U.S. state’s business-friendly policies.

The Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) hosted a welcome reception for Gianforte and more than 40 representatives from Montana’s state government, major local companies and academic institutions. It marked the largest business delegation to Korea from the state.

On the Korean side, more than 40 officials attended from Hyundai Motor, Hyosung Heavy Industries, CJ, Poongsan, Pan Ocean and quantum technology companies including IBM Korea and Qunova.

The event was organized to promote exchange and networking aimed at expanding economic cooperation between Korea and Montana. Korea was the second-largest trading partner of the U.S. state in 2024, purchasing over $335 million in industrial machinery, coal, beef and wheat.

Montana is known for its mineral and agricultural industries, but in recent years it has been transforming its economic structure toward future-oriented industries. In 2023, the state received a “Tech Hub” designation from the U.S. Economic Development Administration, due to its focus on photonic and smart sensor technology.

The shift aligns with Gianforte’s background as an entrepreneur who founded IT companies such as Brightwork Development and RightNow Technologies.

"If Korea’s advanced technology and industrial capabilities meet Montana’s open policies and abundant resources, we can create new success stories," FKI Chairman Ryu Jin said, emphasizing the potential for cooperation between Korea and Montana.

Hours before the reception, Gianforte also met Prime Minister Kim Min-seok to share views on practical ways to improve bilateral relations.

During the meeting, Kim noted that “ensuring smooth U.S. entry and local activities for our citizens is critical to fostering a stable investment environment and accelerating human exchanges,” and asked for the Montana state government to pay greater attention to improving the U.S. visa system.

Gianforte recognized Korea as one of Montana’s largest trading partners, adding that he hopes to see deeper practical cooperation in areas such as agriculture involving coal and flour, as well as in advanced industries including semiconductors, quantum technology, optics and supply chains.