About KoreaTexas Forum
Who We Are
KoreaTexas Forum is a nonprofit organization that connects Korean companies and institutions with Texas communities.
We support Korean organizations at different stages of exploring and engaging in Texas by creating structured pathways for exploration, engagement, and long term business relationships across Texas by bringing together companies, community partners, and regional stakeholders.
Our Mission
Our mission is to help Korean organizations navigate Texas with clarity and confidence.
KoreaTexas Forum works to reduce complexity, increase transparency, and support informed engagement between Korean organizations and Texas communities. By providing regional insight, guidance through unfamiliar systems, and access to trusted local partners, we help organizations move from exploration to meaningful, sustainable engagement.
Our Purpose
Evaluating opportunities in Texas can be complex for Korean companies and institutions. Information is often fragmented, regional differences are difficult to interpret, and meaningful introductions require trusted local context.
KoreaTexas Forum exists to bridge that gap by translating Texas regions, communities, and resources into practical insight and structured engagement so Korean organizations can make informed decisions and build long-term partnerships.
What We Do
Insight
Understand regional markets, workforce realities, infrastructure, and policy environments so decisions are based on facts, not assumptions.
Guidance
Translate how Texas works, who to talk to, what to expect, and what steps come next in a realistic market entry or expansion process.
Connection
Facilitate vetted introductions and structured engagement with Texas communities, institutions, and partners aligned with your goals.
Who We Support
KoreaTexas Forum supports Korean organizations evaluating or engaging in Texas, including:
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Korean startups and growth-stage companies exploring U.S. market entry
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Established Korean corporations considering expansion, relocation, or partnerships
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Investors and venture partners seeking regional insight and aligned opportunities
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Educational, public, and cultural institutions pursuing collaboration in Texas
Meet Our Team
Board of Directors
Kyu S. Kim
SR. EXECUTIVE VP
Bank of Hope
Rusty Towell, Ph.D
DIRECTOR of NEXT Lab
Professor of Engineering and Physics Abilene Christian University
Harold E. Strong
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Texas State Univ. Science, Technology, and Advanced Research (STAR) Park
Alison Walgren
CENTRAL TEXAS MANAGING PRINCIPAL
Deloitte
Brandt Rydell
DEPUTY GENERAL COUNSEL
Electric Reliability Council Of Texas (ERCOT)
Advisory Board
Mary Poche
DIRECTOR OF
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Ben De Leon
GENERAL COUNSEL
JK Kim
SECRETARY OF FINANCE
CEO / President
EC Chi
Eunhyon (EC) Chi is a seasoned economic development leader with nearly 40 years of global business experience. Born in Busan, South Korea, she bridges Korean and Texan markets with deep cultural insight and strong industry ties. As International Director for Williamson County Economic Development Partnership, she spearheads Korean investment and strategic partnerships in Texas. Her executive background spans top global firms like LG Cable, LS Mtron, Molex, and Yamaichi. A Cedar Park resident for 30 years, she is a trusted connector in economic development entities, government and educational institutions.
Partner Spotlight
Connecting Business and Community
Kimley-Horn is one of the nation’s premier planning and design consulting firms. Founded in 1967, we have grown to more than 9,000 employees in over 140 offices across the United States. As a full-service consulting firm, we provide a wide range of services that range from public infrastructure and transportation systems to private land development, site civil, utilities, traffic engineering, environmental planning, landscape architecture, and more.
