With French President Emmanuel Macron set to visit South Korea on July 2, more than 100 domestic companies have been invited to a state luncheon. Unlike past state luncheons that mainly featured major corporations, this event will bring together startups across diverse industries including artificial intelligence, nuclear energy, biotechnology and food, aiming to strengthen bilateral networks.
According to business and political circles on Tuesday, President Lee Jae-myung will hold a summit with President Macron at Cheongwadae on July 3, followed by a state luncheon. Attendees will range from executives of Korea's four largest conglomerates to representatives of mid-sized firms, small businesses and startups. Lee Boo-jin, CEO of Hotel Shilla, and Kwon Bong-seok, vice chairman of LG Corp., are among those expected to attend.
In addition, companies operating businesses in France have been widely invited. Pharmaceutical and biotech firms including Celltrion (068270.KS), as well as startups in AI, advanced technology, renewable energy, food and cosmetics are also on the guest list. The two leaders and business representatives are expected to discuss topics including AI, quantum technology, advanced industries and nuclear energy during the luncheon. Measures to strengthen cooperation on energy security amid instability in the Middle East are also expected to be discussed.
Following the state visit of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Tuesday, President Macron's back-to-back visit makes this a "diplomatic super week" for President Lee. The administration plans to expand trade with the Global South while simultaneously establishing a foothold for advancing into European markets.
After the summit, President Macron will attend the Korea-France Economic Forum and preside over its closing ceremony. Prior to the forum, he will also hold separate meetings with executives from Samsung, Hyundai Motor and Naver.
Macron's visit marks the first by a French head of state in 11 years. Cheongwadae spokesperson Kang Yu-jeong said, "France is one of our top three trading partners within the European Union and a European innovation powerhouse leading future strategic industries such as aerospace, AI and quantum technology, and decarbonized energy." Kang added, "President Macron's visit will serve as an important milestone in developing bilateral relations — built on 140 years of trust — into an even more strategic and future-oriented partnership."