Memphis in May

Memphis in May Origin Story

Since helping found the Memphis in May International Festival in 1976, the Greater Memphis Chamber has been central to Memphis’ international engagement strategy. The festival launched its honored country tradition in 1977 with Japan, establishing what would become a cornerstone of Memphis’ international relations for nearly five decades. In August 2023, the Chamber formally assumed leadership of all international, economic development, and diplomatic activities for Memphis in May, including the annual country selection, a decision unanimously approved by the festival’s Board of Directors.

The Chamber’s leadership brings strategic economic focus to this cultural celebration by leveraging its development expertise and global connections to identify countries with strong potential for business partnerships. Memphis in May has proven to be a significant economic driver, generating $149 million in impact pre-pandemic (2019) and $72.9 million in 2022.

Fast Facts: South Korea as Memphis in May’s 2025 Honored Country

Economic Impact

South Korean investments in Greater Memphis have surpassed $85 million since 2019, creating 400 new jobs
South Korea accounts for 40% of the Memphis region’s total exports, valued at $7.1 billion
Major Korean companies in Memphis include SK Innovation, HMM American Shipping, and Hyosung HICO

Business Connections

Memphis-based global companies like FedEx and Sedgwick already conduct significant business in South Korea
Hyosung HICO’s power transformer manufacturing facility exemplifies Korean enterprise success in Memphis
The Chamber will coordinate economic development delegations between Memphis and South Korea throughout 2025

Cultural Celebration

ARTSmemphis, which has distributed over $100 million in arts funding over 61 years, will commission the 2025 commemorative poster
The poster will be designed by local artist grantees and unveiled in spring 2025
This marks the 48th year of Memphis in May’s tradition of honoring countries and promoting international exchange

Memphis Advantage

Memphis’ strategic position as the “Digital Delta” makes it an attractive location for Korean businesses expanding U.S. operations
The partnership builds on Memphis’ strong existing trade relationships with Asia
The year-long celebration will include cultural exhibitions and business networking opportunities

Why South Korea?

Leading this wave of investment, Hyosung HICO exemplifies the strength of Korean enterprises in Memphis. The company’s state-of-the-art power transformer manufacturing facility has created high-skilled jobs and demonstrated why Memphis continues to attract major Korean businesses seeking to expand their U.S. operations.