Lokesh concludes South Korea Tour

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Andhra Pradesh Education, IT and Electronics Minister Nara Lokesh has concluded a week-long official visit to South Korea, marking a significant step in strengthening India-Korea economic ties while showcasing Andhra Pradesh as a preferred global investment destination. The visit, undertaken at the invitation of the Republic of Korea, focused on attracting investments, expanding industrial partnerships and deepening bilateral cooperation.

During the July 5-11 tour, Lokesh held discussions with more than 50 leading Korean companies, urging them to invest in Andhra Pradesh. The delegation met representatives of global corporations, including LG, Hyundai, Samsung and BNK Financial Group, all of which assured that they would examine investment opportunities in the state after internal consultations. The tour began with an interaction with the Telugu diaspora in Seoul and concluded with an investor roadshow organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). Lokesh also met Indian Ambassador Gaurangalal Das, outlining Andhra Pradesh’s vision for attracting Korean investments in priority sectors.

A major highlight of the visit was the launch of APEX-Korea (Andhra Pradesh External Engagement-Korea), an investor facilitation and outreach cell in Busan aimed at supporting Korean businesses looking to establish operations in Andhra Pradesh. The initiative is expected to strengthen ties with over 40 Korean companies already operating around Sri City while encouraging new investments. Lokesh highlighted Andhra Pradesh’s investor-friendly policies, transparent governance and 3S model, Speed, Stability and Service, citing the success of Kia Motors in the state as a model for future Korean investments.

The minister’s presentations received a positive response from industry leaders and Korean media. Officials from the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) praised the Andhra Pradesh delegation’s proactive approach, while several Korean representatives affectionately referred to Lokesh as the “Palli Palli Minister”, using the Korean expression for “quickly”, in recognition of his fast-paced style of governance and decision-making. The state government described the visit as a successful investment outreach mission that has laid the foundation for stronger industrial collaboration and enhanced economic engagement between Andhra Pradesh and South Korea.