Kemp returning to Korea on economic development trip
By Kim Jarrett | The Center Square | Oct 22, 2025
(The Center Square) – Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said the purpose of his third trip to the Republic of Korea is “reinforcing strategic economic development partnerships.”
The trip comes six weeks after federal officials arrested 475 workers at the Hyundai-LG Battery plant in south Georgia. More than 300 of the workers returned to South Korea shortly after the arrests.
Kemp said at the time that the Peach State has a strong relationship with Korea that stretches back 40 years.
“We are thankful they are reiterating their commitment to adhere to all state and federal laws, just as we remain committed to not allowing this unfortunate incident to undo the decades of mutually beneficial partnerships we’ve built together,” Kemp told Savannah’s WJCL.
The governor said in a release he plans to visit existing industries.
“This visit reflects our commitment to deepening those ties even further, through the creation of opportunities that benefit both our people and our economies,” Kemp said.
First Lady Marty Kemp and Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson are joining the governor on the trip.
“Georgia is home to an incredible Korean community that is driving innovation in key industries, shaping the next generation of growth, and contributing to Georgia’s thriving international culture,” Wilson said. “Korean companies that call Georgia home are more than businesses – they are partners, job creators, friends, and good neighbors.”
The trips are part of the state budget, Jessica Atwell, communications manager for the Georgia Department of Economic Development, previously told The Center Square in an email.
“These missions facilitate Georgia’s international connections that support thousands of jobs for Georgians through trade and investment,” Atwell said. “Economic development missions include a mix of meetings with companies already invested in or interested in investing in Georgia as well as relationship-building opportunities that support connectivity between Georgia and key markets for exports.”
Travel expenses for state leaders are available on Open.ga.gov. Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson was reimbursed $116,811.93 in travel expenses in fiscal year 2024. Kemp received $29,884.69 in travel expenses through the Economic Development Department. Fiscal year 2025 records are not yet available.