WELCOME TO KEI...

Welcome to the Korea Economic Institute (KEI).
One of KEI's most important missions is to broaden and deepen understanding among Americans about developments in Korea and the value of the Korea-U.S. relationship. Through its publications, outreach programs, and website, KEI offers access to current information and analysis. By exploring our newly revamped website, you will become acquainted with the essence and mission of our unique organization and learn more about the significance of the U.S.-Korea partnership.

The modern US-Korea relationship was forged more than 50 years ago as a result of a common commitment to preserve freedom that was threatened by the Korean War. The security relationship that developed as a result has served our two nations well. During the Vietnam War, South Korea provided military support to the United States and has again risen to the occasion to provide the third largest contingent of troops in support of multinational efforts in Iraq. Over this same period of time, South Korea has risen from the devastation of the Korean War to become one of the United States' most important economic partners. South Korea's economy has grown rapidly and is now one of the largest in the world, with a GDP approaching $900 billion. It is the United States' 7th largest export market.

On February 2, 2006 the United States and South Korea announced their intention to negotiate a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) before the U.S. president’s Trade Promotion Authority expired in mid-2007. Through very tough negotiations and determination by both sides, an agreement was reached in early April 2007 and then signed in Washington on June 30, 2007. Ratification is required by both the U.S. Congress and the ROK National Assembly.

2008 promises to be an interesting year.  A new South Korean president, Lee Myung-bak, was inaugurated on February 25, and in November a new U.S. present will be elected. The fate of the KORUS FTA as well as the Six Party Talks may be decided. In August KEI will move to new and larger facilities. Through it all, KEI strives to bring you the most topical and interesting programs about Korea, many of which are video taped and available through our website for those of you who are not able to join us in person. Equally important for those who seek the most comprehensive coverage and up-to-date information about the FTA process is our FTA Resource Center. You will find current fact sheets, analysis and studies about the Free Trade Agreement in one location.

We hope that you will keep coming back to KEI’s website for updates on great programs we have in store for you.

KEI is a not-for-profit, educational organization affiliated with the Korea Institute for International Economic Policy (KIEP), a public policy research institute located in Seoul and funded by the South Korean government. KEI focuses its efforts on all aspects of the U.S.-Korea relationship.

Charles L. (Jack) Pritchard
President