Gen A | Leadership and Australia-Korea Relations with Liz Griffin

Asia Society Australia is pleased to invite you to our Generation Asia masterclass featuring Liz Griffin, CEO of the Australia-Korea Business Council (AKBC) and Daniel Ha, President of the Australia-Korea Young Professionals Association (AKYPA).

The Republic of Korea (ROK) continues to experience rapid growth, solidifying its position as a global leader and industrial powerhouse. Now ranking as Australia’s fourth-largest two-way trading partner, it remains a vital strategic and economic partner for Australia. However, ROK’s political landscape has recently experienced some turbulence, reflecting broader regional shifts occurring across Asia.

Having an extensive background leading initiatives that enhance bilateral trade and investment between Australia and Korea, Liz's work is crucial in the fostering of long-term partnerships and providing critical insight during Korea’s period of political uncertainty.

In this masterclass moderated by Daniel, learn from Liz as she shares insights from her own leadership and career journey, as well as unpacking how Korea’s political landscape could reshape Australia-Korea economic relations.

Attendees will have the opportunity to network at an intimate cocktail reception following the discussion. 

About our Speakers:

Liz Griffin, CEO, Australia-Korea Business Council (AKBC)

Liz has been leading the AKBC as CEO since December 2015, leveraging her extensive background to spearhead initiatives that enhance bilateral trade and investment between Australia and Korea. Liz is passionate about unveiling the dynamic opportunities that exist between Australia and Korea, particularly in sectors critical to the future. This includes energy transition, critical minerals, food and agriculture, and financial services. She is dedicated to educating Australian audiences about the strategic importance of our third-largest trading market, driven by a mission to ensure Australian businesses thrive in Korea, and likewise, Korean businesses find success in Australia. 

Liz has a rich understanding of the Korean language, culture and business practices through her studies at Seoul National University, Yonsei University and Sogang University. In 2017, Liz's efforts in promoting economic collaboration between Korea and Australia were formally recognised by the Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Sydney. Liz holds a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Finance at the University of Melbourne, is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors Course, and holds a Diploma of Languages (Korean) from Monash University.

Daniel Ha, President, Australia-Korea Young Professionals Association (AKYPA)

Daniel serves as President of AKYPA, where he drives bilateral engagement through leadership forums, mentorship programs and people to people exchange. His work empowers emerging leaders across policy, business, arts, and technology.

He is also a project manager in the defence and space sector, delivering complex programs to clients. With a background in operations strategy, business development and commercialisation, he has led industry partnerships and technology transfer initiatives across defence and adjacent sectors.

Passionate about disruptive technologies, Daniel brings a strategic mindset and operational expertise to programs that strengthen national capability and global collaboration. His focus spans defence, space, and advanced manufacturing, with a commitment to shaping a more connected and resilient Indo-Pacific.