South Korea is intensifying its global economic and defence engagement as Kim Jung-kwan, Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, embarks on a four-day diplomatic mission to North America aimed at advancing investment and industrial cooperation.

The visit will begin in Ottawa, where Kim is scheduled to meet Canadian Industry Minister Melanie Joly and Energy and Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson. Discussions will focus on strengthening bilateral economic ties and enhancing South Korea’s bid to participate in Canada’s multi-billion-dollar submarine procurement programme, involving major players such as Hanwha Ocean and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries.

Kim will then travel to Washington for high-level meetings with US officials, including Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, alongside engagements with lawmakers on strategic investments and trade policy.

The visit follows South Korea’s recent legislative push to accelerate overseas investments, with the government preparing frameworks to support large-scale projects. Kim emphasised that the submarine initiative could become a cornerstone for long-term cooperation across national security, industry, and economic development, underscoring Seoul’s ambition to expand global industrial influence.