Seoul: The CES 2026 organizer will work with the U.S. government to provide up-to-date visa information to participants in the tech exhibition slated for January amid growing concerns over U.S. visa policy affecting business officials, the organizer said Wednesday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Gary Shapiro, CEO and vice chair of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), addressed concerns during a press conference in Seoul about a recent U.S. immigration crackdown at a Hyundai plant construction site in Georgia. This incident led to the detention of over 310 South Korean workers, who were later released. Shapiro expressed that the situation was unfortunate and clarified that it was not directed by the White House, calling it a "mistake."

Shapiro emphasized his confidence that the U.S. government welcomes South Korean businesses and assured that his organization will collaborate with the government to assist participants in the upcoming tech event. He expressed optimism that the Georgia incident would not recur and highlighted South Korea's status as a pivotal global innovation hub, especially in sectors like semiconductors, smartphones, and energy.

The CEO expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming CES 2026 in Las Vegas, stating that AI technology will have a significant presence. The event will feature a CES Foundry event to unite communities focusing on artificial intelligence, blockchain, and quantum technologies.

The CTA's recent survey, as reported by Yonhap News Agency, revealed that while 99 percent of South Korean workers are aware of AI technology, only 48 percent have used such models in their workplaces. Furthermore, 78 percent are aware of agentic AI, yet only 25 percent have utilized these platforms. The survey also found that younger workers, aged 18 to 44, showed the highest awareness and understanding of generative AI services, indicating a trend of proactive adoption of technology among South Korea's younger generations.