As Columbus celebrates one of its most significant economic development wins in decades, Columbus State University is positioning itself to help further with business and cultural recruitment from South Korea. 

Through its Korean Institute at Columbus State (KICS), the university played an important role in helping the city stand out as the right choice for South Korean rare earth magnet manufacturer JS Link America to establish its first U.S. facility in Columbus. That decision brings a $223 million investment and 520 new jobs to the area. During one of his visits to Columbus while deciding where to locate his company, the company’s CEO, Jun Y. Lee, met with the CSU President Stuart Rayfield and others on campus.

“We emphasized Columbus State University’s record of serving local workforce needs,” Rayfield said. “We are proud to have played a part in bringing this transformative investment to our community. Through our Korean Institute, we are helping to create an environment here that fosters partnerships like this. We look forward to preparing the workforce and welcoming the families that will call Columbus home.”

Established in early 2025 to foster cultural, academic and business connections between Georgia and South Korea, KICS has given Columbus a unique edge in global economic development. A university contingent visited South Korea in June 2025 and was invited back to participate in an entrepreneurship conference this October. The October visit will also include Columbus Mayor Skip Henderson, Muscogee County Schools Superintendent David Lewis, and Choose Columbus CEO Missy Kendrick. The group will participate in a sister-city signing agreement with Jinju, South Korea. 

Efforts such as these are part of KICS’ mission to build deep relationships with Korean industry leaders, universities and government partners. Those relationships can become a deciding factor in demonstrating that Columbus is not only business-friendly, but also Korea-friendly.

By highlighting Columbus State’s nationally recognized Robotics Engineering program, the university’s partnership with Columbus Technical College, and its ties to Fort Benning, KICS is showcasing the region’s ability to supply the advanced, skilled workforce the company will need for years to come.

“This is proof that higher education is not just about classrooms,” Rayfield said. “It’s about helping communities grow stronger, more connected and more competitive.”

For more information about the Korean Institute at Columbus State, visit its website.