The Republic of Korea is seeking to expand its market in Laos by forming partnerships in the electric power sector. To promote cooperation, the "Laos-Korea Electric Power Seminar" and the "2024 Power Equipment and Supplies Trade Delegation Session" were held at the Lao Plaza Hotel on June 25.

#### Key Highlights of the Event
- **Organizers and Hosts**: The events were hosted by the Korean Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) in partnership with the Ministry of Energy and Mines of Laos. They were orchestrated by the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) and the Korean Electrical Manufacturers Cooperative (KEMC).
- **Opening Remarks**: The seminar began with opening remarks from Mr. Mun Iljoo, Vice President of KEPCO, and Mr. Souliya Sengdalavong, Deputy Director General of the Department of Energy Policy and Planning at the Ministry of Energy and Mines.
- **Congratulatory Remarks**: Additional remarks were made by Mr. Park Jungwe, Director General of KOTRA Vientiane, and Mr. Kim Jongmin, Minister Counselor of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea to Laos.
- **Key Participants**: The event saw participation from prominent figures including Dr. Bounthene Chansamay, Deputy Managing Director of EDL-GEN, Mr. Phoumaly Sihaboud, Deputy Managing Director of ECI, and Mrs. Sirisopha Vongthevanh, Deputy Manager of the Legal Department at EDL.
- **Presentations**: Mr. Taekyung Kim, Senior Manager of the Energy Ecosystem Creation Department at KEPCO, provided an overview of Korea’s electricity industry and projects. Mr. Lamphone Dimanivong discussed the development and planning of Laos' power sector.

#### Business Matching Session
The "2024 Power Equipment and Supplies Trade Delegation Business Matching Session" facilitated over 70 meetings between 10 leading Korean companies and 20 Lao companies. Noteworthy Korean participants showcased innovative products, such as:
- Compact Grounding Devices
- Polymer Insulated Reclosers
- Closed Switchboards
- Distribution Boards
- Energy Management Systems

#### Future Collaboration
Mr. Mun Iljoo emphasized KEPCO's commitment to collaborating with Laos to strengthen its electricity sector. Mr. Souliya Sengdalavong highlighted Laos' interest in attracting Korean companies for energy project development, especially in solar power to reduce electricity imports. Mr. Kim Jongmin reiterated Korea’s significant investment in Laos and ongoing support.

This landmark event represents a significant step towards enhanced bilateral cooperation, with potential to transform the electric power landscape in Laos through innovative Korean advancements and strategic partnerships.

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