ST. PAUL, MINN. — CHS Inc. has opened an office in Seoul, South Korea, a move the company expects to strengthen its business with that nation’s growing customer base.

“Korea is an important, strategic demand base for corn, soybeans, wheat and distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS),” said Brian Schouvieller, vice-president of international business for CHS. “CHS has done business in Korea for many years. With this office, Korean customers will further gain acceptance of our farmer-owned business model. We plan to build on that base to serve more Korean customers and expand this market for our member-owners.”

Charles Kim, who will manage the CHS Korea office, will be responsible for further building customer relationships and risk management. Prior to joining CHS, Mr. Kim was general manager and president of Cargill Korea Ltd. and also held an oilseed processing merchandising and risk management position for Cargill in the United States.

Mr. Schouvieller said the company’s growth in Asia-Pacific markets like Korea is a key component to adding volume and market access for long-term stakeholder value.

“Expanding our global capabilities and footprint in agriculture and energy commodities is one of the company’s strategic aspirations,” he said.

CHS also has international marketing offices in Argentina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Hungary, Jordan, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Spain, Switzerland and Ukraine.