LANSING, Mich. – In a strategic move to enhance economic growth, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has embarked on a pivotal trip to South Korea. The mission, involving the governor and a delegation from Team Michigan, aims to forge stronger ties with business, government, and industry leaders, thereby attracting investments and creating new opportunities for Michigan’s workforce and companies.
“Michigan is open for business, and we’re going anywhere and working with anyone to bring more jobs, investment and opportunity back home,” said Governor Whitmer. “South Korea is a global leader in industries that are critical to Michigan’s future, from semiconductors and robotics to mobility and shipbuilding. By showing up, strengthening relationships, and making the case for Michigan, we can open new doors for our businesses, bring critical supply chains home, and create good-paying jobs in communities across our state. Michigan has the workers, the manufacturing know-how, and the innovative spirit to compete with anyone, and we’re ready to get to work.”
The delegation’s itinerary includes showcasing Michigan’s prowess in advanced manufacturing, engineering, and innovation, while also exploring potential collaborations in shipbuilding, semiconductors, robotics, and future mobility. This mission builds upon Governor Whitmer’s ongoing efforts and Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) engagement in the region, highlighted by the governor’s 2024 visit to South Korea.
“Michigan cannot compete globally from the sidelines,” stated Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the MEDC. “Being in-market gives Team Michigan the opportunity to take our case directly to decision-makers, better understand where companies are headed as they consider the North American market, and ensure Michigan businesses are connected around the world. Our engagements in South Korea will keep Michigan front of mind for future investment. Michigan is an international state and these missions create new pathways for our companies and communities to succeed in the global economy.”
Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs‘s U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, emphasized Michigan’s defense and manufacturing capabilities as pivotal for securing industrial partnerships and future technologies. The state’s focus on transforming innovation into capability was further underlined by recent developments at Camp Grayling, a premier test range for the U.S. Army. This aligns Michigan with critical defense technologies and supply chains.
Advancing Michigan-Korea Investment Ties
South Korea ranks as one of Michigan’s top import and export partners, placing third and eighth, respectively. Since 2019, Korean companies have initiated 14 investment projects in Michigan, amassing $6.01 billion in capital investment and generating 5,379 jobs. Key projects include Brils, Hansae Mobility, HL Mechatronics, and LG Energy Solution.
Governor Whitmer’s delegation is set to engage with major companies and government officials in South Korea, aiming to harness a portion of South Korea’s $350 billion U.S. investment commitment. The discussions will emphasize opportunities in shipbuilding, robotics, advanced manufacturing, and future mobility sectors, capitalizing on Michigan’s robust engineering and manufacturing infrastructure.
In March 2024, Governor Whitmer’s visit to South Korea aimed to lure investments in mobility, semiconductors, batteries, and related sectors. She also participated in InterBattery, a renowned global battery exhibition, and interacted with leading corporations like Samsung SDI and Hyundai.
On June 7, 2024, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between MEDC and Korea SMEs and Startups Agency (KOSME) to boost collaboration between Michigan and South Korea’s startup ecosystems, promoting mutual economic growth.
Investment Missions Deliver Opportunities for Michigan
Michigan’s international missions are vital in securing foreign investments and supporting local businesses in the global market. These missions provide direct interaction with decision-makers, allowing Team Michigan to understand future investment strategies and identify opportunities for Michigan communities and businesses.
Such engagements can lead to new facilities, expansions, and connections to international supply chains, thereby generating well-paying jobs across the state.
Members of the Team Michigan Delegation
Accompanying Governor Whitmer are key figures like MEDC CEO Quentin L. Messer, Jr.; U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers; Executive Director Col. John T. Gutierrez; Marc Corriveau of Henry Ford Health System; Oakland County Executive David Coulter; and ITC Michigan President Charles Marshall.
“Michigan’s advanced manufacturing capabilities make our state a natural partner for companies developing technologies that will shape the future of national and economic security,” stated Col. Gutierrez. “Strengthening these partnerships gives Michigan companies new opportunities to participate in critical supply chains.”
Marc Corriveau highlighted Michigan’s healthcare sector as pivotal for attracting global talent and businesses. David Coulter expressed optimism about the discussions’ potential to foster new international partnerships, while Charles Marshall emphasized the importance of reliable infrastructure for economic growth and future investments.
This mission is supported by the MEDC and the Michigan Economic Development Foundation, focused on advancing initiatives for private investment and job creation in Michigan.
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