Beyond Trade Figures: Team France Korea Highlights France’s Strategic Impact in Korea
On Wednesday, February 25, at the French Embassy in the Republic of Korea, David-Pierre Jalicon, Chairman of the French-Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI), took part in a joint press conference to present the findings of the latest survey on France’s economic footprint in South Korea. Representing both the FKCCI and Team France Korea, he reaffirmed the long-term commitment of French businesses to the Korean market and the strategic role of the Chamber in supporting this dynamic.
Bringing together the French Embassy in the Republic of Korea, the FKCCI, the French Foreign Trade Advisors (CCEF) and Business France, the conference highlighted a partnership that has evolved far beyond trade statistics into a strategic, innovation-driven alliance.
Addressing the current regulatory environment, Chairman David Pierre Jalicon stated:
“ What is essential now is to establish a clearly defined framework, provide clarification and ensure a smooth transition to avoid uncertainty for investors.”
The survey emphasized the full French economic value chain in Korea, from aerospace and advanced manufacturing to renewable energy, luxury industries and deep-tech innovation. According to figures shared during the event, France ranks as the third largest foreign investor in Korea worldwide, based on data from KITA, reflecting both financial confidence and long-term anchoring within Korea’s strategic sectors.
Julien Herveau, Vice Chairman of the FKCCI, underlined the underestimated dimension of bilateral trade flows:
“When measured in value-added terms, a significant share of France’s exports to Korea transits through third countries.”
Referring to OECD estimates, he explained that the actual value of French exports to Korea is more than 50 percent higher than official statistics indicate. He also stressed that 70 percent of these exports consist of equipment and intermediate goods used in Korean domestic production, positioning French companies at the heart of Korea’s strategic industrial value chains.
Marlène Marques Lopes, Head of the Economic Department at the French Embassy, pointed to the strategic trust underpinning the partnership:
“Nine Korean satellites have been launched from French Guiana, which reflects a high level of mutual trust.”
She also noted that France is deeply integrated into Korea’s key industries, particularly in nuclear energy, renewables and defense, reinforcing its role as a long-term industrial partner.
In his welcoming remarks, Ambassador Philippe Bertoux highlighted the historical and forward-looking dimension of bilateral relations:
“As high-level official visits are scheduled, this report reflects the achievements made over 140 years of diplomatic relations between France and Korea and will serve as a steppingstone toward new horizons.”
His statement underscored that the economic partnership is part of a broader strategic relationship built on mutual trust, technological complementarity and shared global ambitions.
Beyond investment and trade, the speakers emphasized the inclusive and social impact of the French presence in Korea. French companies contribute to local employment, youth opportunities and responsible business practices, with commitments to sustainability, gender equality and innovation.
In this spirit, the FKCCI actively promotes talent development and inclusive growth. The upcoming FKCCI Career Forum will take place on May 27 in Seoul and, for the first time, on May 29 in Busan. This regional expansion reflects the Chamber’s commitment to decentralization and balanced regional development, connecting French and Korean companies with young talent beyond the capital and supporting stronger economic ecosystems across the country.
The findings presented at the Embassy collectively illustrate a diversified, resilient and forward-looking French presence in Korea. More than a trading relationship, the Franco-Korean partnership stands today as a strategic alliance aligned with the global challenges of innovation, sustainability and inclusive growth.
