Opportunities in Orbit: U.S.-ROK New Space Seminar & Reception

As space exploration continues to capture the global imagination, the partnership between the Republic of Korea and the United States serves as a dynamic engine for innovation, economic growth, and strategic alignment. With both nations advancing ambitious goals beyond Earth's orbit, their collaboration is not only expanding the frontier of space exploration but also reshaping the future of space commercialization.

On April 15, 2025, Meridian International Center—together with the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Korea AeroSpace Administration—convened leaders from U.S. and Korean space companies, and the civil space community. Held on the sidelines of the 4^th U.S.-ROK Civil Space Dialogue, the seminar focused on the rising potential of public-private partnerships in space and examined how evolving policy environments in both countries are opening new doors for cross-sector and cross-border cooperation.

This program was hosted as part of Meridian’s Space Diplomacy Initiative, which strives to bridge the gap between scientific advancements and effective policymaking while fostering global cooperation and advancing American leadership in space.

The seminar featured keynote remarks from U.S. and Korean government officials, underscoring the value of bilateral engagement and the growing potential of space commerce. Thirteen Korean space companies presented pitches showcasing cutting-edge technologies and strategic approaches to civil space collaboration. Together, these discussions highlighted the importance of fostering international public-private partnerships to advance both commercial and civil space cooperation.

Keynote Speakers included: H.E. Hyundong Cho, Ambassador, Embassy of Korea; Minyoung Han, Director General, Korea Ministry of Foreign Affairs; T.H. Stuart Holliday, CEO, Meridian International Center; John Lee, Vice Administrator, Korea AeroSpace Administration; and Janice Starzyk, Acting Director and Deputy Director, U.S Department of Commerce

The program also included pitches from 13 Korean space companies: BORYUNG; HANCOM InSpace; Hyundai Motor Company; InterGravity Technologies; Kolon Industries; LIG Nex1; Nara Space Technology; Perigee Aerospace; SONGWOL Technologies; Space Lintech; TelePIX; Texas Space Communications; and Unmanned Exploration Laboratory.

As space becomes an increasingly vital domain for scientific discovery, economic opportunity, and international cooperation, Track 1.5 dialogues like this gathering play a critical role in building the trust, networks, and shared vision needed to navigate a rapidly evolving civil and commercial space landscape.

Meridian International Center is proud to serve as a platform for countries looking to elevate their space ambitions—connecting governments, industry leaders, and civil society to shape the future of space through dialogue, partnership, and innovation. If your country or organization is interested in advancing space diplomacy with the United States, Meridian can be a resource. Please feel free to reach out to our team at mcde@meridian.org to learn more.