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5h ago

U.S., South Korea Launch Visa Working Group and Investor Desk After Georgia Raid

The steps target repeat disruptions to Korean-led U.S. projects, with broader visa changes constrained by U.S. law.

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South Korean and U.S. officials attend the first meeting of the South Korea-U.S. "Business Travel and Visa Working Group" in Washington on Sept. 30, 2025, in this photo released by the Korean Embassy in Washington. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
South Korean and U.S. officials attend the first meeting of the South Korea-U.S. "Business Travel and Visa Working Group" in Washington on Sept. 30, 2025, in this photo released by the Korean Embassy in Washington. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
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Overview

  • The inaugural Business Travel and Visa Working Group met Sept. 30 in Washington, co-chaired by Kevin Kim and Jung Ki-hong, with Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau stressing the role of skilled personnel.
  • The United States agreed to set up a Korea Investor Desk at its embassy in Seoul to serve as a visa communications channel for Korean companies, with operations planned for October.
  • U.S. officials reconfirmed that B-1 and ESTA travelers may install, service and repair investment-related equipment in the United States, with a fact sheet to clarify permitted activities.
  • New lines of contact will link Korean diplomatic missions with ICE and CBP to coordinate on cases and prevent future worksite disruptions.
  • Officials noted that creating new visa categories faces practical legislative constraints, and the working group will continue meeting to refine operational procedures.