Approximately 6,000 global ethnic Korean entrepreneurs are gathering in Shenzhen, China, to build large-scale business networks and pioneer export markets.
The World Federation of Overseas Korean Traders Associations (World-OKTA) announced that it will host the ’30th World-OKTA Korean Business Convention’ at the Shenzhen Convention and Exhibition Center from October 8 to 11. The core event, ‘2026 KOREA BUSINESS EXPO SHENZHEN,’ will run for two days on October 9 and 10.
This convention will bring together South Korean and Chinese government officials, South Korean metropolitan and basic local governments, domestic and international affiliated organizations, companies seeking overseas expansion, World-OKTA members, and overseas local buyers.
In particular, around 550 companies, including World-OKTA members, overseas buyers, and businesses aiming to expand into overseas markets, will participate in the expo and export consultation sessions to drive actual export contracts and discover business partners.
On October 8, the opening day, industrial tours of Shenzhen enterprises, registration, member check-ins, and a welcoming dinner will take place. On October 9, the expo and export consultations will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., followed by the ‘2026 OKTA Global Startup Competition,’ South Korea-China investment cooperation networking sessions, and the Night of Commerce.
The expo and export consultations will continue at the same time on October 10. Additionally, branch presidents’ meetings, expanded leadership meetings, board of directors meetings, an extraordinary general meeting, and the closing ceremony are scheduled.
This convention focuses on strengthening networks between overseas regional ethnic Korean business leaders and domestic companies, while supporting South Korean small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in entering overseas markets. It will feature export consultations between overseas Korean buyers and domestic firms, as well as opportunities for local governments to attract investment and tourism.
A large delegation of industry officials from North America is also visiting China.
Kim Chang-joo, president of OKTA LA, stated, ‘A total of 55 Korean business representatives in trade from LA are heading to Shenzhen,’ adding, ‘Since the event is held in a high-tech city, we expect it to serve as an even greater opportunity for exchange and development.’
Aside from Los Angeles, about 60 members from regions such as New York, Denver, and Atlanta will also attend.
