The Aug. 27-31 mission to the Republic of Korea, commonly known as South Korea, will see the Premier hold meetings with representatives from the atomic energy, hydrogen and auto sectors, and government officials.

“Alberta’s ties with South Korea are strong and unwavering. As we continue to deliver responsible and reliable energy to the world, we’re also looking to diversify our markets for them. Turning to one of our best trading partners in South Korea is only natural, especially at a time of global energy insecurity. We must continue to strengthen ties between peaceful and democratic allies when it comes to energy.”

Jason Kenney, Premier

The Premier and Alberta’s delegation will meet with South Korean leaders to discuss small modular reactors as part of the province’s efforts to reduce emissions.

In November 2021, Alberta signed a memorandum of understanding with a number of Alberta and South Korean stakeholders to support cooperation on small modular reactors. 

The Premier will also reiterate that Alberta remains a reliable and responsible energy producer.

The Premier will be accompanied by two staff members as well as:

  • Gerald Chipeur, Honourary Counsul of the Republic of Korea in Calgary and partner at Miller Thomson, LLP
  • Rick Christiaanse, CEO, Invest Alberta Corporation
  • Sunjong Chun, CKBC Inc.

Chipeur and Chun will cover their own costs. Mission expenses will be posted on the travel and expense disclosure page.

The Alberta government is committed to working with its national and international partners to advance shared interests that can lead to new opportunities for people and businesses in Alberta and around the world.

Quick facts

  • South Korea is Alberta’s fifth-largest export market.
  • In 2021, Alberta exported about $668.2 million worth of goods to South Korea. Top exports included meat (primarily beef, $140 million), nickel ($122.7 million), wood pulp ($105.4 million), energy (primarily coal, $98.5 million), and fats and oils (primarily canola oil, $66.4 million). 
  • That same year, Alberta imported about $209.3 million worth of goods. Top imports were machinery ($50.3 million), electrical machinery ($46 million) and plastics ($31.7 million). 
  • Alberta shares a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with South Korea encompassing trade, investment and bilateral cooperation. Alberta maintains an office in Seoul. 

Itinerary for Premier Kenney*

Aug. 27-28
  • Travel to Seoul

Aug. 29
  • Meet with POSCO Holdings
  • Meet with Hyundai Engineering

Aug. 30
  • Meet with Korean Atomic Energy Research Institute and tour its research and development centre
  • Meet with Minister of Science and Information and Communications Technology
  • Meet with Hyundai Motor Company

Aug. 31
  • Meet with Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy
  • Meet with Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power
  • Depart Seoul

*Subject to change.