The Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), South Korea's major business group, announced the opening of an office in Frankfurt to expand its network in Germany, where the largest number of Korean companies operate in Europe. Germany, known for its advanced smart factories incorporating artificial intelligence and clean energy technology, is Korea's primary trading partner in Europe and the second-largest export market in the Asia-Pacific region after China. The KCCI stated that the new office in Frankfurt will focus on addressing common challenges faced by both countries and strengthening business connections. This marks the KCCI's third overseas office, following the establishment of offices in Beijing in 1993 and Hanoi in 2009. With about 880 Korean entities operating in Germany, last year's trade between the two countries reached a record high of $33.9 billion. The KCCI emphasized the significance of Germany as a test bed for businesses seeking opportunities in climate change and environmental policies, such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. The German office of the KCCI aims to facilitate economic collaboration between Korean and German businesses, working closely with the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Frankfurt Chamber of Commerce and Industry to address business challenges and stay updated on the latest EU policies and German laws and systems. Additionally, the KCCI plans to collaborate with the German government and other economic organizations to build networks and support each other in strengthening trade cooperation and complementing weaknesses in the value chain.