Led by Gabrielle Drinkwine 🇺🇸

From K-pop and Hollywood to viral media and global art movements, culture has become one of the most powerful tools of diplomacy. Known as soft power, this influence stems not from force or finance, but from attraction — the ability of ideas, values, and creativity to inspire others.

In this roundtable, delegates will explore how cultural diplomacy operates through art, media, and pop culture, shaping how nations see one another. Both South Korea and the United States have long leveraged culture to build influence and understanding on the world stage — from the global reach of BTS and the Hallyu wave to the enduring impact of American film, music, and media.

Together, participants will examine how art and storytelling foster cross-cultural connection, spark curiosity, and strengthen the Korean–American relationship in ways that politics alone cannot.

Led by Bahar Hassantash 🇺🇸

The United States and South Korea share one of the most dynamic economic partnerships in the world—one built on trade, technology, and innovation. Yet as global priorities shift, both countries face new questions about how to balance cooperation with independence.

This roundtable explores how economic interdependence shapes the U.S.–Korea relationship today. Delegates will discuss how trade agreements like KORUS are evolving, how industries are responding to shifting supply chains, and how competition in emerging technologies—from semiconductors to clean energy—is redefining regional and global markets.

By studying real-world examples, participants will consider how business and policy leaders in both nations navigate uncertainty, pursue shared growth, and manage the tensions that come with being deeply connected economies.

Led by Marco Infosino 🇺🇸

Energy is the lifeline of a modern economy, shaping not only prosperity but also national security, environmental sustainability, and public health. This roundtable will explore how energy policy guides the production, distribution, and consumption of energy resources, and how collaboration between South Korea and the United States can influence regional and global outcomes.

Delegates will consider how the Korea–U.S. relationship can be strengthened through deeper cooperation on energy and nuclear issues. Discussions may focus on energy security, climate change, technological innovation, and the ethical implications of nuclear power. By approaching these topics through economic, political, and environmental lenses, participants will explore opportunities for joint leadership in building a sustainable and secure energy future.

Led by Hyein Kim 🇰🇷

As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes how societies innovate, govern, and connect, the Korea–U.S. alliance enters a new era. Technology now plays a defining role in how the two nations build trust—linking innovation with shared responsibility and ethical progress.

From Silicon Valley’s startup culture to Washington, D.C.’s policy dialogues and Korea’s dynamic tech ecosystem, this roundtable explores how AI can strengthen cooperation across economic, ethical, and human dimensions. Delegates will engage in scenario-based discussions and site visits to examine how both nations can co-create frameworks for responsible innovation, secure data use, and democratic digital governance.

Together, participants will ask not just what technology can do—but how it can serve people, and how Korea and the United States can shape that future together.