John Lee sees strong AI and MedTech ties with South Korea during APEC visit

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu highlighted vast collaboration potential between Hong Kong and South Korea in artificial intelligence and medical technology while attending the APEC summit, emphasizing how the rapid growth of these sectors in Seoul aligns perfectly with Hong Kong’s priority industries and could spark mutually beneficial projects that expand opportunities for local residents and businesses.

During a lunch meeting with Hong Kong professionals, entrepreneurs, and Chinese business representatives working in South Korea, Lee noted their success across finance, medical equipment, trade, law, transportation, and logistics as proof of the unique edge Hong Kong talent holds overseas.

He revealed that the Hong Kong Trade Development Council will partner with the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park and the Korea Medical Devices Industry Association to host an online seminar early this month, showcasing Hong Kong—especially the Northern Metropolis development—and its role as a gateway for South Korean medical firms into the Greater Bay Area mainland market.

He also spotlighted the freshly launched GoGlobal Task Force, unveiled in October’s Policy Address to streamline overseas expansion for mainland companies, alongside sweeping measures to dismantle hurdles in the Northern Metropolis, fueling innovation and industry clusters.

Lee also underscored the aggressive push to establish artificial intelligence as a cornerstone of Hong Kong’s economic future.

A representative from the China Chamber of Commerce in Korea echoed the enthusiasm, noting that mainland firms increasingly view Hong Kong as their premier “overseas expansion platform” and are eager to partner with the city to conquer global markets together.