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AMCHAM,
Qualcomm host inaugural ball, attract 800 leaders
By Lee Gyu-lee,
The Korea Times - The American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM) hosted its
flagship annual event, the AMCHAM Inaugural Ball 2026, in Seoul on Friday, in
collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies, bringing together more than 800
leaders from the business, government and diplomatic communities.
As AMCHAM’s
largest annual gathering and one of its most anticipated events, the black-tie
gala served as a premier networking platform while also marking the
inauguration of AMCHAM’s 2026 board of governors. The event introduced the
chamber’s new leadership and outlined its strategic direction for the year
ahead.
Held under the
theme “AI Closer to You,” this year’s event spotlighted the growing role of
emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future
of business and cross-border collaborations. It also underscored the continued
importance of trust-based partnerships in driving sustainable growth amid rapid
innovation.
In his opening
remarks, AMCHAM Chairman and CEO James Kim emphasized the importance of
collaboration in an era of accelerating technological change. While artificial
intelligence is transforming industries, he noted, the strength of the
Korea-U.S. economic partnership remains rooted in shared values and
people-to-people ties.
Kim also noted that the event coincides with the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, calling it a milestone that reflects a longstanding spirit of innovation and partnership between the two countries.
"We are pleased to cohost this event with Qualcomm this year,” Kim said. “Collaboration with global technology leaders like Qualcomm will play a critical role in accelerating next-generation innovations, including AI, and in creating new opportunities for bilateral economic growth.”
Congratulatory
remarks followed from James Heller, charge d’affaires at the U.S. Embassy in
Seoul, and Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo, both of whom underscored the importance
of robust public-private cooperation in strengthening Korea-U.S. economic ties
and ensuring long-term resilience.
Representing
the cohost, Kwon Oh-hyung, senior vice president and president of Asia-Pacific
at Qualcomm and vice chairman of AMCHAM’s board of governors, delivered a toast
highlighting the company’s leadership in next-generation technologies.
He said
Qualcomm has driven innovation in connectivity, high-performance and low-power
computing and edge AI for over four decades, expanding AI applications across
devices including smartphones and personal computers. He added that the
Snapdragon X series is setting a new benchmark for the emerging AI PC era with
strong capabilities and energy efficiency.
Kwon also
noted Qualcomm’s recent announcement at MWC Barcelona of a 6G coalition with
more than 60 global partners, reaffirming its commitment to advancing
next-generation telecommunications technologies in Korea.
A dedicated
demo zone showcased partner devices powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon platform,
offering attendees a firsthand look at how AI technologies are being integrated
into real-world applications.
The evening
featured auctions, a raffle and a gourmet dinner, creating opportunities for
high-level networking and engagement among participants.
A highlight of
the program was a live performance by K-pop artist Hwasa, which brought the
event to a vibrant finish.
As AMCHAM’s
largest annual event, the Inaugural Ball continues to serve as a key platform
for connecting stakeholders across sectors, fostering collaboration and
celebrating shared progress.
The event
reaffirmed AMCHAM’s role as a bridge between Korea and the United States,
marking a forward-looking start under its new leadership.
