The 28th World Korean Business Convention, a major global networking event for Korean economic leaders abroad, began in Vienna, Austria, on October 28 and will continue through November 1. Jointly hosted by the World Federation of Korean Associations of Commerce (World-OKTA) and Yonhap News Agency, with support from the Korean Ministry of Trade and Industry, the convention aims to expand opportunities for Korean SMEs abroad, particularly in Europe, which is a new and challenging market.

Participants from 46 countries include Korean economic leaders, next-generation entrepreneurs, and government officials from Korea and Austria. From LA alone, more than 90 representatives are attending, with LA Chapter President Edward Sohn leading efforts to facilitate entry into European markets.

At the event, the Korea Products Expo, showcasing a variety of Korean goods from beauty products to electronics, resulted in significant interest, with 1,097 consultations and approximately $97.9 million in business deals on the first day. High-demand items included machinery, energy parts, K-beauty, and K-food products. World-OKTA expects record-breaking figures by the event's end on October 31.

<Hwandong Cho>