Cybersecurity Takes Center Stage at AmCham’s First Seminar in Seoul

The American Chamber of Commerce in Korea hosted its first Cybersecurity Seminar on Wednesday under the theme “Cybersecurity as National Security: Global Trends & Industry Lessons,” bringing together senior Korean and US government officials, global business leaders and cybersecurity experts in Seoul.

The event highlighted the growing importance of cybersecurity in national and economic security amid escalating AI-driven threats and global digital transformation.

In his opening remarks, James Kim, AmCham chairman and CEO, emphasized that cybersecurity must be viewed as a cornerstone of national resilience. “If a highly structured company like SK Telecom can be breached, it demonstrates that no organization is completely immune,” he cautioned.

Korean lawmakers and senior officials — including National Assembly Vice Chair Choi Hyung-du, Ministry of Science and ICT Director General Choi Woo-hyuk, and FBI Legal Attaché at the US Embassy Justin Chang — stressed the urgency of public-private and international cooperation.

“Cybersecurity threats are no longer confined to the corporate realm,” said Choi. “They now pose real risks to national infrastructure and public safety.”

Keynote speakers included Simon Green, APAC President at Palo Alto Networks, and Lee Ki-joo, Chairman of Korea’s CISO Council, who both urged organizations to adopt integrated, AI-ready cybersecurity strategies.

“AI technology has advanced the landscape of cyber attacks overall. We must rebuild our cybersecurity strategies,” Green stated during his speech. “Our imperative is to secure AI by design, enabling organizations to innovate boldly and securely in this new era.”

A panel moderated by Professor Kwon Hun-yeong from Korea University addressed the evolution of cyber risks across telecom, finance, and energy sectors, calling for cross-border data sharing and executive-level accountability.

The seminar reaffirmed AmCham’s role in promoting US–Korea tech cooperation and advancing a secure digital business environment.