Pioneering Global Connectivity
Established to support the export of regional industries and energize the economy, EXCO, South Korea’s leading exhibition and convention center, has been a cornerstone of economic growth since its inception in 1995. As the first non-capital region-based convention center in South Korea, it opened in 2001, becoming a central platform for the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, Exhibitions) industry in the region.
EXCO’s journey to becoming a global exhibition and convention center is marked by hosting significant international events. These include the 22nd World Energy Congress in 2013, the 7th World Water Forum in 2015, the International Society for Education through Art in 2017, and the 10th IBRO World Congress of Neuroscience in 2019. A landmark achievement was the successful hosting of the ‘World Gas Conference 2022’, often referred to as the ‘Olympics of the Gas Industry’, in May 2022.
Preparing for the Future
As EXCO approaches its 30th anniversary in 2025, the region anticipates enhanced global accessibility with the opening of the New Daegu-Gyeongbuk Airport in 2030. This development is expected to significantly boost visitor access to Daegu. In anticipation, EXCO is focused on improving profitability and enhancing its unique brand through passionate employee engagement and comprehensive marketing strategies by 2024.
Enhancing Regional Economy and Industry
EXCO plays a pivotal role in revitalizing the regional economy by hosting exhibitions that promote Daegu’s future industries such as ABB (AI, Big Data, Blockchain), UAM (Urban Air Mobility), healthcare, robotics, and the semiconductor industry. The International Green Energy Expo, a leading renewable energy exhibition, and the International Fire & Safety Expo Korea, the largest of its kind in the domestic fire safety field, have both seen record participation and are poised for further expansion in 2024.
The Daegu International Future Auto&Mobility Expo (DIFA), previously organized by Daegu City, was elevated to a government event co-hosted with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy last year. This collaboration has significantly expanded the exhibition’s scale, contributing to the regional economy by fostering cooperation in the UAM and drone sectors. The International Electric Power Industry Expo Korea showcases the future direction of Gyeongsangbuk-do’s nuclear and electric industries, and the upcoming Medi Expo Korea 2024, held concurrently with KOAMEX, will display cutting-edge trends in the medical industry. Additionally, EXCO organizes various industry exhibitions like K-FOOD EXPO and Daegu Machinery Expo (DAMEX), aiding in corporate market expansion.
Expanding Global MICE Capabilities
In 2024, EXCO aims to continue enhancing its operational rate and vitalize the MICE industry by attracting new exhibitions and conventions. Collaborating with MICE-related organizations, international bodies, central government, and local governments, EXCO plans to bring government rotating exhibitions, previously limited to the capital region, to Daegu. This initiative will support local small and medium enterprises in developing customized technologies and products that reflect government policies and industry trends.
Preparing for the Future Airport and Specialized Exhibitions
In preparation for the opening of the New Daegu-Gyeongbuk Airport in 2030, EXCO, along with Daegu Metropolitan City and Gyeongsangbuk-do, plans to host new exhibitions related to future airports. Given the growing interest in electric vehicles, EXCO also intends to specialize in secondary battery exhibitions in collaboration with private PEOs. Continuous cooperation with related organizations will enable the hosting of diversified and specialized exhibitions in fields like system semiconductors and webtoons.
Facility Enhancement for MICE Activation
EXCO currently consists of two exhibition halls: the West Wing and the East Wing. Plans are underway to enhance the East Wing by 2026, adding meeting rooms, small conference rooms, and VIP waiting rooms, thereby increasing the attractiveness of EXCO as an event venue.
Leading Sustainable MICE with ESG and Customer-Friendly Management
In line with the global trend towards ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) management, EXCO is contributing to sustainable MICE industry practices. As a green convention center, it employs renewable energy facilities like solar power, geothermal energy systems, and solar water heating. EXCO is expanding eco-friendly exhibitions and derivative events, aiming to grow as a customer-friendly, interactive platform, enhancing visitor satisfaction and breathing together with its customers.
Embracing Technological Innovations and Sustainability
EXCO’s commitment to sustainability and technological innovation is evident in its infrastructure and operational strategies. Utilizing advanced technologies like AI and blockchain, the center is at the forefront of the digital revolution in the exhibition industry. This technological edge not only enhances the visitor experience but also ensures efficient and sustainable event management. By integrating these innovative technologies, EXCO is not just a venue for exhibitions but also a showcase of the future of convention centers.
This forward-thinking approach, combined with its role as a hub for international cooperation and cultural exchange, solidifies EXCO’s status as a global leader in the MICE industry. Its strategic location in Daegu, coupled with the upcoming airport, positions it perfectly to leverage the increasing global connectivity and attract a diverse range of events and visitors. EXCO’s commitment to excellence, sustainability, and innovation makes it a model for convention centers worldwide, promoting a future where business and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.
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