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South Korea

Discover South Korea, one of the world’s largest economies.

Skyscrapers dot the landscape in Seoul, South Korea.
  1. South Korea
  2. Country and Market Info

Evaluating the market in South Korea

We can help you get a better understanding of market activity, relationships and support to grow your business.

EDC Position

EDC Country Position - Open

Open

What this means:

  • Actively pursuing business
  • All EDC solutions are available in this market, subject to regular approval criteria

How does EDC determine the position?

EDC takes the following into account when determining the position in a given market:

  • Government of Canada restrictions
  • Political, human rights and corruption risks
  • Other factors that may be taken into consideration are: size of the economy, diversification of the economy, risk of natural disasters
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Country Risk Quarterly

Read the Country Risk Quarterly interactive guide for valuable insights on rapidly changing global markets, new opportunities and the latest political and economic risks that could affect your business.
 

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Global Export Forecast

Read the Global Export Forecast for expert insights from the EDC Economics team on the current trends influencing global trade and Canadian exporting.
 



Read the latest Government of Canada travel advisory for this market.
 

Business environment in South Korea

South Korea has one of the most favourable business environments in Asia, due to its open economy, business-friendly government policies, highly skilled and educated workforce and improved standards of corporate governance. There are very few restrictions on international investments and ownerships. South Korea’s economy is heavily driven by international trade. Its industries are highly innovative and moving upstream towards cutting-edge technology. With the Canada-Korea Free Trade Agreement (CKFTA) now in place, Canadian exporters have preferential access to one of the world’s largest economies and are exposed to more opportunity due to tariff elimination in a broad range of sectors. In 2023, Export Development Canada (EDC) will be opening our new representation in Seoul to better serve Canadian companies seeking to expand into this dynamic market.

We understand opportunity

With our knowledge and solutions, you can take on the world knowing that we've got your back.

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International Trade Solutions

Access more insights on this country

A selection of Health Functional Foods (HFF) and nutraceuticals on display

Getting active in South Korea’s fast-paced health and wellness sector

Article April 23, 2024 This booming market has significant potential for Canadian exporters

Northland offshore wind energy farm with wind turbines shown in the ocean

How project financing helped a Canadian gas company become a global wind energy leader

Article April 12, 2024 Northland Power Inc. further expands within global markets

Stuart Bergman

ROK-steady

Trade Matters November 02, 2023 Why South Korea should be top of mind for Canadian exports

Joe Mimran poses with globe with blue chevrons in background.

South Korea: A world of business potential

Podcast October 27, 2023 Dive into South Korea’s business landscape with insights from EDC’s Joy Rankothge.

A family of four shop for groceries in a modern grocery store.

Agri-food export markets in Indo-Pacific

Article August 23, 2023 There are four billion reasons why Canadian food companies should expand to this growing region.

The skyline of Seoul, South Korea at dusk.

Doing business in South Korea: Tips and insights

Article May 02, 2023 Searching for your next market? This hidden gem could be the answer.

View more

You should also check out

Beijing‘s Forbidden City at sunset
Report December 16, 2020
Asia-Pacific nations sign massive trade deal

This EDC Economics overview outlines the implications of the world’s largest free trade agreement and how it affects Canadian companies.


 

Interested in growing your business in this market?

If you’re an existing customer, please contact your EDC account manager about any additional support you need. If you’re new to EDC, please contact us weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET.

1-800-229-0575

Or send us a question and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Send a question.

Date modified: 2024-02-05

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