SEOUL, May 22 (Yonhap) — Get ready, Los Angeles! South Korea is set to host the inaugural “K-Expo USA 2026” next week, a dynamic event designed to significantly boost the export of popular Korean cultural content, delicious K-food, and innovative K-beauty products to the global market, officials announced Friday.
This highly anticipated five-day “K-Expo USA 2026” will transform the U.S. entertainment capital, Los Angeles, from May 23-27. This marks a significant milestone as it’s the first time this major Korean culture export promotion event is held in the United States, building on its success in international markets like Vietnam, Thailand, France, Canada, Spain, and the United Arab Emirates.
Jointly hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism alongside various other South Korean ministries, K-Expo USA 2026 is strategically designed to accelerate the global expansion of Korean businesses. It achieves this by forging strong links between vibrant cultural content and related sectors, including agriculture, fisheries, and the booming cosmetics industry.
Underscoring the increasing local enthusiasm for Korean culture, the Los Angeles City Council has officially designated K-Expo USA 2026 as an official city program, highlighting its importance to the region.
Visitors to the K-Expo will discover the latest innovations and cutting-edge technologies driving Korea’s dynamic cultural industries, showcased by leading companies and institutions, according to ministry officials.
Global streaming giant Netflix will captivate attendees by presenting exclusive food products derived from its intellectual property, complemented by an immersive exhibition. This display will feature iconic imagery from Netflix’s highly popular Korean original TV series and films, alongside captivating photos of beloved Korean stars.
Digital content leader Naver Webtoon will host a compelling exhibition dedicated to its diverse webtoon content, specifically themed around K-food and K-beauty. Meanwhile, the Korea Football Association will engage sports fans with a dedicated pavilion celebrating the national football team.
The expo promises an unforgettable experience with interactive Korean food tasting events and an electrifying K-pop concert, featuring acclaimed artists like Jay Park and the popular boy band P1Harmony. For industry professionals, crucial business matchmaking sessions, involving 63 prominent companies from the content and beauty sectors, are slated for May 26 and 27.
Vice Culture Minister Kim Young-soo emphasized the profound significance of K-Expo USA 2026, noting its strategic location in the United States—the undisputed heart of the global entertainment industry. He also highlighted its timely coincidence with the ongoing preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup across North and Central America.
“The South Korean government remains committed to a collaborative, cross-ministerial approach, offering robust support to companies deeply rooted in Korean culture as they actively seek to expand their vital presence within the dynamic North American market,” Vice Minister Kim Young-soo stated in an official release.
