On Monday October 13, WTIA celebrated a major new partnership the Korea Internet Security Agency (KISA) Internet of Things (IoT) Innovation Center. The two organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding, declaring their commitment to creating networking opportunities for IT companies in the Pacific Northwest and Korea, exploring potential collaboration on future technologies, supporting the entry of startups and small and medium-sized businesses into the market, and educating future generations about how to create a collaborative relationship between the two regions.

We were thrilled to have participation by an esteemed group of government officials and industry leaders, including:

• Jong Pyo Kim, Head of Policy and Planning, IoT Innovation Center KISA
• Michael Schutzler, CEO, Washington Technology Industry Association
• Soo In Kim, Associate Researcher, IoT Innovation Center, KISA
• Steven Hong, Korean American Chamber of Commerce-WA, New Venture Committee
• Hyuna Chong, President, Korean American Chamber of Commerce, WA
• S. Shin, Board Chair, Korean American Chamber of Commerce, WA
• Suzanne Estey, President & CEO, Economic Development Council of Seattle
• Jeanie Ashe, Washington State Department of Commerce
• Jennifer Shettleroe, Board Chair, Washington Technology Industry Association
• Wil Saunders, Director, Washington State Office of CIO
• Rebecca Lovell, Seattle City Startup Office
• Bruce Burns, Principal, Enterprise SW, Amazon Web Services
• Redwood Stephens, CEO, Synapse
• Patrick Jenny, SVP of Development Engineering, F5
• Sean McLeod, SVP, Stratos
• Sam Kaplan, Seattle Trade Alliance
• Wistar Kay, ICT Business Development Manager, Department of Commerce

There are many synergies between Korea and Washington, especially as it related to technologies focused on cloud and the Internet of Things. By facilitating the meaningful exploration of business partnerships and activating the IoT industry in both regions, we will ensure mutual growth and success. This agreement is yet another step in fortifying Washington State a technology powerhouse and we are grateful to our partners at EDC, TDA, and State Commerce for their active role in advancing this initiative.

Check back regularly for updates on how Washington and Korea are working together to drive increased collaboration and successful business outcomes for our tech sectors.