Generalizes on the best strategy to enter the market, e.g., visiting the country; importance of relationships to finding a good partner; use of agents.
Last Published: 9/8/2020

Establishing and maintaining a strong business relationship is critical to succeeding in Korea. Companies hoping to enter the Korean market should visit the country frequently to cultivate contacts and to better anticipate business conditions, although in the current COVID environment travel to Korea is a challenge.

A local presence is essential for success. U.S. companies should retain a manufacturer’s representative or distributor, name a registered trading company as an agent, or establish a branch sales office.

The Commercial Service in Korea (CS Korea) is eager to assist U.S. companies in developing connections by identifying and introducing potential buyers, distributors, and importers. Please consult http://export.gov/southkorea/servicesforuscompanies/index.asp.

For support relating to U.S. agricultural commodities and processed foods, please consult the Exporter Guide.

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.