7th Global Biz Forum sets sail with AI, trade and US policy shifts in focus
The seventh edition of Global Business Forum, organized by The Korea Herald and Herald Business, launched in Seoul on Wednesday, bringing together business leaders, diplomats and industry experts to discuss investment, artificial intelligence and global trade trends. The forum, themed “Next BIZ Model,” will run every Wednesday until June 25 at The Ambassador Seoul — A Pullman Hotel.
During the opening session of the 15-week program on Wednesday, Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to South Korea, Nurgali Arystanov, delivered the keynote speech, presenting Kazakhstan as Central Asia’s premier investment hub.
“Kazakhstan has attracted over $453 billion in foreign direct investment since independence,” he said. “With $35 billion invested in transport infrastructure and 13 major trade routes, we are a key gateway to markets with nearly a billion consumers.”
Arystanov highlighted the growing economic ties between Kazakhstan and South Korea, noting that South Korean firms invested $907 million in Kazakhstan during just the first nine months of 2024. “We are proud that South Korean businesses recognize Kazakhstan as a key investment destination,” he said, inviting further collaboration in AI, fintech and high-tech manufacturing. To support foreign investors, he outlined incentives such as special economic zones, tax breaks and long-term legal guarantees.
He also referenced the Korean government’s “K-Silk Road” strategy, designed to strengthen economic ties between South Korea and Central Asia. “This initiative builds on our shared strengths and opens doors for deeper cooperation,” he said. He pointed to an upcoming C5+K Summit in Seoul as a critical opportunity to expand trade and investment partnerships.
Since 2021, GBF has hosted two sessions, in spring and fall, every year, providing lectures, discussions and networking opportunities to help businesses navigate economic and technological changes.
The 2025 spring edition will feature over a dozen distinguished speakers from various industries, offering insights into investment, AI and global trade. Kim Bo-hyun, CEO of Daewoo E&C, will share expertise on corporate strategy and infrastructure, while economist Kim Kwang-seok will analyze key economic trends. Kim Young-se, an industrial design pioneer, and Lee Bong-ju, a legendary marathoner, will provide perspectives on innovation and perseverance. Sung Ki-hak, chair of Youngone Corp., and James Kim, chair of AMCHAM Korea, will explore global trade and US-Korea business ties. These are just a few of the influential voices set to shape discussions at this year’s GBF.
Wednesday's opening ceremony also featured remarks from Jung Won-ju, chair of Daewoo E&C and vice chair of Jungheung Group; Choi Jin-young, CEO of Herald Media Group and publisher of The Korea Herald; and Shin Jeong-hoon, chair of the National Assembly’s Public Administration and Security Committee.
JEI University President Lee Nam-sik, the lead professor for the GBF’s 15-week program, delivered a speech titled “The Future of Prosperity.” He focused on artificial intelligence and its rapid integration into global business. According to him, “AI is no longer an emerging trend — it is already shaping industries.”
He outlined four key phases of AI development: Perception AI (pattern recognition), Generative AI (content creation), Agentic AI (autonomous decision-making) and Physical AI (AI-integrated robotics).
“These technologies will fundamentally transform how businesses operate, and those that fail to adapt will struggle to stay competitive,” he said.
Beyond AI, Lee addressed how US economic policies and shifting global trade alliances could affect markets. “Businesses need to develop strategic foresight and adaptability to navigate these uncertainties,” he said.
mjh@heraldcorp.com
