Smart Factory + Automation World 2024

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Ending successfully with largest-ever number of visitors and total of participating companies up by 10% compared to the previous year
 
 Smart Factory + Automation World 2024, Asia’s leading automation industry exhibition and Korea’s best smart factory exhibition, closed on March 29 with the largest-ever performance.
This exhibition, jointly hosted by the Korea Industry Intelligentization Association (KOIIA), the Korea Smart Manufacturing Office (KOSMO), and the Korea Machine Vision Association (KMVIA), etc., attracted 60,917 visitors and buyers to the three-day event, a 17% increase compared to the previous year, reflecting its growing status as a global industrial exhibition. The number of participating companies increased by 10% compared to the previous year with 450 companies and 2,000 booths, making it the largest such event ever.
In particular, 1,674 booths from 317 companies completed applications for the pre-application booth for the 2025 exhibition to be held on site, and more than 80% of this year’s participating companies confirmed their intention to participate again next year.

At this exhibition, automation-related companies such as AI, big data, cloud computing, and industrial robots participated under the theme of ‘Make your factory more sustainable,’ and presented the latest trends in future smart manufacturing technology in the manufacturing industry.
A spokesperson for Siemens Korea, which participated for the second year in a row, commented, “More buyers visited the booth than last year, and the exhibition participation goal was already achieved on the second day,” adding, “This year, more domestic large companies and overseas companies and buyers visited than last year. So, we could feel the popularity of the globalized Smart Factory + Automation World.”
The CEO of HanyoungNux, which has participated for 33 consecutive years, commented on the importance of this exhibition, “This year, the participation of companies related to manufacturing AI technology and robots has increased more than any other year in history. This is an industrial exhibition where the largest numbers of automation industry representatives gather, and in consideration of the scale of the exhibition and composition of participating companies, this exhibition seems to have grown qualitatively enough to be compared to the Korean version of CES or Hannover Messe.”
Meanwhile, Smart Factory + Automation World 2025 is scheduled to be held at COEX, Seoul, for three days from March 12 to March 14, 2025.


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KOREA PACK 2024

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KOREA PACK 2024 Aims to Showcase a Wider
Spectrum of Packaging-related Solutions

  • To show innovative technologies with sustainability, efficiency, and safe packaging
  • Concurrent events, including the 19th Cosmetics·Pharmaceutical·Bio Process & Technology Exhibition, to be held, providing a wealth of attractions

The 24th International Process & Packaging Exhibition (KOREA PACK 2024), jointly organized by the Korea Packaging Machinery Association, The Monthly Packaging, and Kyungyon Exhibition Corporation, will be held from April 23 to 26 over four days at KINTEX, Seoul, Korea.
 

Featuring a total of 700 companies with 3,000 booths
Korea Pack 2024 has attracted 700 participating companies with 3,000 booths. Visitors can explore packaging machinery, eco-friendly packaging materials and converting — as well as the entire supply chain encompassing logistics, distribution, and automation necessary for various industries such as food, beverages, confectionery, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, household goods, and the chemical industry.
Participation by both domestic and international companies is robust. Countries such as Italy, India, and China will set up National Pavilions, while others including Germany, the United States, Sweden, Switzerland, Singapore, Vietnam, Taiwan, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Egypt, and Turkey, will participate in the exhibition, totaling 25 countries.

Key themes – sustainability, efficiency, and safe packaging
Sustainability, efficiency, and safe packaging are the key themes of this year’s exhibition. It will showcase innovative packaging technologies focusing on resolving environmental issues and enhancing production efficiency, as well as ensuring the safety and freshness of products for consumers. Visitors can expect to preview the future directions of the packaging industry and its technologies at the exhibition.
Packaging machinery manufacturers participating in this exhibition are expected to display new products and technologies emphasizing eco-friendliness and high efficiency. With the growing seriousness of environmental issues, the enforcement of international environmental policies like carbon neutrality and RE100 is approaching. As a result, corporate obligations and responsibilities are increasing, prompting companies to swiftly adapt to policy changes.
The exhibition is expected to present strategies of packaging machinery manufacturers in response to international policies and environmental changes. New products featuring energy conservation, high efficiency, eco-friendly, and smart technologies will be prominently featured, addressing the concerns of customers and contemporary issues.
When looking at the major participants, notable companies such as Heung-A, Countec, Sejong Pharmatech, LeePack, Young Tech Pack, Cube Gel, PTK, DaeEun Industrial, among others, will be positioned in the premium hall.
Additionally, leading domestic packaging machinery manufacturers — including Daehyun Hi-Tech, Jaepack, Chang Sung Softgel, Eul Sung Autopack, Komas, Seoul Automatic Packaging Machinery, Sejin Tech, Jupack, Samwon Pack, Nongshim Engineering, ECM, and Solpack — are expected to draw the attention of customers, with new products and technologies aligned with the eco-friendly era.
Furthermore, there is growing interest in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) for sustainable development globally. Particularly in the packaging industry, with the strengthening of government environmental regulations, attention and responses to ESG are expected to become even more critical.

Supporting ESG initiatives of packaging companies through a dedicated special hall
To support the ESG initiatives of packaging companies, a special exhibition hall dedicated to ESG sustainable packaging will be set up at Korea Pack 2024. This special hall will provide opportunities for exchanging innovative technologies and information related to eco-friendly material usage, waste reduction, and recycling, efficiency improvement in production and distribution processes using digital technologies, and reduction of carbon emissions.
Expert keynote speeches, the latest trends in sustainable packaging, panel discussions, and technology seminars showcasing innovative packaging solutions will facilitate information exchanges and networking among experts, allowing for the sharing of diverse ideas and case studies during the exhibition. The ESG Sustainable Packaging Conference will be held on April 24 (Tuesday).
Throughout the exhibition period, various events arranged by leading packaging-related government agencies and organizations in Korea will also be held, emphasizing the significance of Korea Pack 2024.

2024 Korea Star Awards
The 2024 Korea Star Awards will be held under the auspices of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE) and organized by the Korea Packaging Center. This event aims to recognize individuals and companies who have contributed to the development of packaging technology in Korea, showcasing innovative packaging-related technologies and improvements. Award-winning works can be viewed at the exhibition

APAC Forum
An international conference, ‘APAC Forum,’ organized by the Korea Packaging Machinery Association, will also be held during Korea Pack 2024. The Asia Packaging Association Club (APAC)Forum, led by packaging machinery/packaging organizations from Korea, Japan, and Taiwan, will take place on April 23 (Tuesday), discussing the development of the packaging industry in the Asia region and facilitating exchanges among member countries.

1:1 Business Meetings
One-on-one business meetings with overseas buyers for exploring export channels for participating companies will also be arranged during the exhibition period. Approximately 80 buyers from Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and other countries will be invited for face-to-face consultations with exhibiting companies through pre-business matching, aiding Korea packaging manufacturers in their overseas expansion.
Matching between exhibiting companies and overseas buyers is currently underway. In the previous exhibition in 2022, virtual consultations were conducted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in 79 consultations, with 37 domestic companies and 28 overseas buyers matched, achieving a consultation amount of 160 billion won and a contract promotion amount of 57.2 billion won.

ICPI WEEK 2024 will be concurrently held for business networking
Additionally, alongside Korea Pack 2024, other exhibitions related to the packaging industry will be concurrently held. The ICPI WEEK 2024 (www.icpiweek.org) exhibition will feature specialized displays for pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and cosmetics development, comprising seven specialized zones including pharmaceutical and cosmetic raw materials and development services, new drug development, laboratory and research analysis equipment, logistics, and the cold chain. Registered attendees of Korea Pack 2024 will have free access to visit ICPI WEEK 2024.
Additionally, Korea Pack 2024 is a B2B industrial trade show, and entry is restricted to industry professionals, buyers, and distribution company representatives. Free admission is available for industry professionals, buyers, and distribution company representatives who register in advance or present an invitation card from the exhibition’s website before the exhibition starts.
A spokesperson for Korea Pack 2024 commented, “Korea Pack 2024 will be an opportunity for companies to showcase how they are adapting to the changes in the packaging industry,” adding, “Visitors will gain new opportunities and ideas through the latest information and networking, and we welcome your keen interest and participation.”

 
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SIMTOS 2024 to be Held on the Largest-Scale Ever

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  • Total of 1,300 companies from 35 countries participating, with 6,170 booths
  • ‘Intelligence, digitalization and automation’ of production and manufacturing to be featured through five specialized pavilions and one special exhibition
  • Korea’s ‘Best Business Platform’ held normally for the first time in six years

Seoul International Manufacturing Technology Show (hereinafter referred to as “SIMTOS”), hosted by the Korea Machine Tool Manufacturers’ Association (KOMMA), will be held for five days from April 1 (Monday) to April 5 (Friday) on the largest-scale ever at KINTEX 1 and 2 in Goyang City near Seoul.
At SIMTOS 2024, 1,300 companies from 35 countries will participate with 6,170 booths, and visitors can see everything at a glance — from processing equipment to digital manufacturing solutions — in five specialized halls for each production and manufacturing technology.

In particular, this year, the newly launched Manufacturing Automation&Robot Digital Transformation Exhibition (M.A.D.E. in SIMTOS), which was designed to effectively showcase the digital transformation of production and manufacturing technology, is being held simultaneously, raising visitors’ expectations.
For SIMTOS 2024, five specialized pavilions and one special exhibition have been prepared.

In the KINTEX 1, visitors will be able to see the changing trends in cutting processes and technology through Metal Cutting&Die·Mold Tech Pavilion, Material·Parts&Control Tech Pavilion, and Toolings&Measuring Tech Pavilion.

Metal Cutting&Die·Mold Tech Pavilion
At the Metal Cutting&Die·Mold Tech Pavilion, domestic and foreign companies that lead the field in metal processing technology such as DN Solutions, SMEC, HYUNDAI WIA, HWACHEON MACHINERY, KOREA FANUC, HANWHA PRECISION MACHINERY, DAESUNG HI-TECH, FFG DMC, MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC AUTOMATION KOREA, OKUMA, etc., will be displaying intelligent, smart, and hybrid machine tools, and mold-processing technologies.

Material·Parts&Control Tech Pavilion
At the Material·Parts&Control Tech Pavilion, parts and control systems that have evolved through the digital transformation will be displayed. SAMCHULLY MACHINERY, SEOAM MACHINERY INDUSTRY, SIEMENS, HIWIN TECHNOLOGIES, SAMICK THK, HEIDENHAIN, ARYUNG MACHINERY IND., etc., will present essential parts and material technologies that will contribute to improving the performance of metal-processing equipment.


Toolings&Measuring Tech Pavilion
At the Toolings&Measuring Tech Pavilion, solutions for optimal processing conditions and quality control will be introduced. The cutting-edge tooling technologies from companies including Gühring Korea, MAPAL HiTECO, YG-1, Kyocera Precision Tools Korea, DINE, KORLOY, MST, OSG KOREA, KOREA NIKKEN, etc., will be presented.
In addition, through this pavilion, Mitutoyo Korea, Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, DUKIN, Renishaw Korea, MARPOSS, Carl Zeiss, etc., will unveil their measurement-related solutions and technologies developed to inspect the quality of processed products.

At the Metal Cutting-Off&Welding Tech Pavilion and Press&Forming Tech Pavilion, both of which will be located in halls 9 and 10 of KINTEX 2, visitors can check out the overall production and manufacturing processes, as well as metal-processing technology.

Metal Cutting-Off&Welding Tech Pavilion
In the Metal Cutting-Off&Welding Tech Pavilion, where visitors can check out high-efficiency laser equipment and eco-friendly welding technology, HK, Trumpf Korea Co., Ltd., Bodor Laser Korea, Bystronic Korea, AMADA KOREA, etc., will exhibit their products featuring advanced laser-processing technologies.

Press&Forming Tech Pavilion
In addition, INWANG GLOBAL, Salvagnini Korea, TAEWON, BLM S.p.A., etc. will display molding processing solutions with high-precision, complex shapes at the Press&Forming Tech Pavilion.

Manufacturing Automation&Robot Digital Transformation Exhibition (M.A.D.E. in SIMTOS)
At the Manufacturing Automation&Robot Digital Transformation Exhibition (M.A.D.E. in SIMTOS) to be located in halls 7 and 8 of KINTEX 2, visitors can see a variety of industrial digital transformation solutions — key elements of digital manufacturing implementation — including additive manufacturing, robot automation, control automation, autonomous driving, IoT-based manufacturing services, etc.
This year, KUKA Robotics Korea, ABIMAN ENGINEERING, Neuromeka, INTERX, Intech Automation, ZWCAD KOREA, Lincsolution, etc., will participate in order to unveil the latest digital manufacturing solutions such as robots, engineering software, 3D printing technology, etc.
In addition, Digital Manufacturing Technology Theme Pavilions including the AI Factory Theme Pavilion, the CNC System Theme Pavilion for smart manufacturing equipment, the Die-casting Theme Pavilion, etc., will be featured during the exhibition.

Providing opportunities to build business networks and share information on the latest trends
SIMTOS 2024, which has established itself as Korea’s best business platform, is expected to provide opportunities to build business networks and share information on the latest trends that will lead the future of production and manufacturing.
At SIMTOS 2024, there will be differentiated buyer consultation sessions (Matchmaking4U) designed to connect buyers and participating companies, with an aim to create noticeable outcomes.
In addition, the Global Digital Manufacturing Innovation Conference, which will provide insights into digital manufacturing and industrial transformation, will be held from April 1 to April 5 in halls 7 and 8 of KINTEX 2. This Conference will comprise 12 themes based on industry and technology on production and manufacturing – including AI factories, AI manufacturing innovation, autonomous manufacturing, plastics industry, root industries, additive manufacturing, die-casting, steel structure technology, robot automation, digital ecosystems, etc.
In addition, the Technical Guide Tour designed to promote understanding of the trends of digital manufacturing and industrial digital transformation, and an Open Stage Seminar arranged for the presentation of new products and new technologies of participating companies, will be operated, respectively.
A spokesperson for the SIMTOS Secretariat explained, “If you are looking for innovative technologies and solutions to respond to the rapidly changing production and manufacturing trends, please be sure to visit SIMTOS 2024, which will be held on the largest-scale ever. We hope that all of you can discover new opportunities by vividly witnessing the present and future of global production and manufacturing technology during the exhibition.”

 
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Introducing Sustainable, Efficient, and SafePackaging Solutions – Korea Pack 2024

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Korea Pack 2024, an international exhibition for packaging materials, will be held across Halls 1 to 5 (approximately 53,000m2 in total) of KINTEX 1st Exhibition Center in Goyang, a city near Seoul, for four days from Tuesday, April 23 to Friday, April 26 this year.

During the period of the exhibition, cutting-edge packaging technologies and products tailored to various industries, including food and beverage, confectionery/baking, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and household goods, will be on display.
It is expected that Korea Pack 2024, an international trade event held under the theme of ‘Sustainability, Efficiency, and Safe Packaging,’ will bring together more than 1,000 packaging industry leaders and experts from 25 countries, including Korea, Japan, and China, and countries in Europe, and the Americas, with 3,000 booths.
The Korea Packaging Machinery Association (KPMA), with members comprising Korea’s top packaging machine manufacturers and related parts service companies, has secured an exhibition space of approximately 9,000m2 (1,000 booths) to successfully host Korea Pack 2024 – in order to showcase End of Line (EOL) technologies including food and beverages, the pharmaceutical industry, the petrochemical industry, etc.
In addition, KPMA is planning to invite packaging groups from Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines — with the aim to promote networking and collaboration among overseas packaging companies.
This year, Korea Pack will feature an ‘ESG Sustainable Packaging Special Exhibition & Conference,’ highlighting the importance of carbon neutrality in response to environmental pollution and climate change. At this exhibition, the latest products and technologies of companies that provide packaging solutions in consideration of the environment will be displayed.
Moreover, it is also expected that insights and actionable strategies for sustainable packaging will be presented through related conferences and seminars.


 
 
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SEMICON Korea 2024, a Competitive Business Platform in the Global Semiconductor Market

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SEMICON Korea, which started with 189 booths in 1987, has solidified its position as a representative exhibition for the semiconductor industry, thanks to the continued growth of Korean semiconductor manufacturing.

SEMICON Korea 2024 is an exhibition in which domestic and foreign semiconductor materials and equipment companies participate, and will be held at COEX in Seoul from January 31 to February 2, 2024.
About 500 companies are scheduled to participate in this year’s exhibition. A total of 2,100 booths will be set up so that visitors can experience new semiconductor manufacturing technologies and services. During the event, about 30 conferences will also be held. The conferences, in which a total of 200 semiconductor experts will participate as speakers, opens with a keynote speech by leaders of the high-tech industry such as SK Hynix, Merck, and Eliyan.

The SEMI Technology Symposium STS will also be held, dividing the semiconductor manufacturing process into six divisions and discussing cutting-edge semiconductor manufacturing technology, as well as the MI Forum, Test Forum, Smart Manufacturing Forum, and Silicon Carbide (SiC) Power Semiconductor Summit. The SiC Power Semiconductor Summit is being held for the first time this year as the importance of low power grows along with the development of advanced applications.

The semiconductor investment briefing session held during the event will be on a scale that is more than twice that of the previous one. The U.S. semiconductor investment briefing session will provide a detailed explanation of the Chips Act and guidance on semiconductor support policies for each state in which four U.S. states (New York, Arizona, Indiana, and Texas) participate.
A SEMI spokesperson explained, “The theme of the event is ‘Innovation Beyond Boundaries,’” adding, “We plan to fulfill our role as a business platform that supports technological innovation and the establishment of new partnerships in response to the situation where the semiconductor industry is being reorganized due to the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology.”


 
 
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BEXCO, Advancing to Becomea Global MICE Platform in 2024

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From a Local Landmark to a Global Player : BEXCO’s Path to Success in 2024

Busan Exhibition & Convention Center (BEXCO), as a landmark of Busan, an international maritime city and a hub of logistics in Northeast Asia, launched its successful history as a global-standard convention and exhibition center with the Busan International Motor Show in September 2001.
BEXCO features a large pillar-free exhibition space that is fully flexible for any size of event, as well as meeting rooms, outdoor exhibition space, modern facilities, convention halls, and auditorium for large-scale international conferences and meetings.
With its innovative facilities, excellent accessibility, and superb customer service, BEXCO hosts large-scale international exhibitions, including the Busan International Mobility Show, Environment & Energy Tech (ENTECH), World Climate Industry EXPO (WCE), and the Global Game Exhibition (G-STAR).
In addition, BEXCO has established itself as an exhibition convention center with unparalleled competitiveness in Northeast Asia by hosting a diversity of international conferences and events, such as: APEC 2005 Korea, ASEAN-Republic of KOREA Commemorative Summit 2019, and more.
BEXCO remains at the forefront of digitalization, a current trend in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry. The digital twin accurately replicates the entire convention hall, providing realistic spatial information on an official website. This innovative feature enables customers to virtually explore event venues and simulate setups, granting them the convenience to plan and make informed decisions from anywhere in the world. Event organizers, both domestic and international, can now conduct comprehensive facility tours and streamline their decision-making processes without the need for physical visits, ultimately saving valuable time and resources.

BEXCO is situated in the heart of Busan’s fastest growing and most dynamic commercial area. The Center features convenient amenities including beautiful natural scenery and beaches of Haeundae and Gwanganri, 5-star-hotels and other accommodation to suit all budgets, shopping centers and other attractions for leisure and vacation.
Additionally, its state-of-the-art facilities enable BEXCO to host any kind of exhibitions. The pillar-free exhibition space can withstand five tons of weight per 1m2 for heavy equipment. BEXCO also provides easy vehicle access for exhibits, booth construction and breakdown, a wide variety of choices for events with modern and advanced facilities including plumbing system, electricity supply, and communications system on-site. With a ceiling height ranging from 12.5 to 22.5 meters, each exhibition hall is ideally suited for hosting extensive international trade shows. The complete view of the exhibition hall from the organizer’s offices helps the organizers to remain constantly in touch with the exhibition and the exhibitors.
Construction of the new exhibition center is expected to meet demand for larger exhibition and meeting space. The third exhibition center will be a state-of-the-art building that will alleviate the lack of sufficient exhibition space, and will also help BEXCO to become a global MICE platform, driving economic and social development in the local region.
Currently, BEXCO offers a total of 46,000 square meters of exhibition space, and will provide more event space upon completion of the new venue. Besides holding large-scale exhibitions and high-level conferences, the venue can also host various events such as performing arts, cultural activities, sporting events, and scientific and technological experiential conferences.
With the new facilities, the Center will be able to host a wider variety of international events and provide the highest level of service, thus ensuring BEXCO’s future as a symbolic landmark of Busan, a city with global competitiveness.


 
 
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Embracing the World: EXCO, South Korea’s Premier Exhibition & Convention Center

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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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Coex: Seoul’s Premier Exhibition Hall Leading the Way in MICE Industry

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Coex, a prominent exhibition and convention center located in Seoul, South Korea, stands as a shining example of innovation and excellence in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry. In recent years, Coex has redefined its mission, focusing on connecting and providing experiential value through industry exchanges and the integration of AI. This forward-thinking approach has propelled Coex to the forefront of the MICE industry, making it a platform that drives the activation and future growth of this sector.

A Remarkable Year of Recovery

The year 2023 marked a significant milestone for Coex, as it played a pivotal role in the recovery of the MICE industry. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Coex hosted 27 domestic exhibitions and 9 international exhibitions, achieving an annual revenue exceeding 1 trillion KRW. This remarkable feat surpassed the pre-pandemic revenue levels of 2019, showcasing Coex’s resilience and adaptability.
Notably, the InterBattery exhibition held in March emerged as one of the largest secondary battery industry events in South Korea, with participation from over 470 companies, including global top-three battery manufacturers. The event attracted an unprecedented 60,000 visitors, setting a new attendance record. In June, Coex ventured into the international arena by hosting “InterBattery Europe” in Germany, facilitating the entry of Korean battery companies into the European market. Furthermore, September saw the simultaneous hosting of the KiAF SEOUL and the world’s second-largest art fair, Frieze, drawing more than 10,000 international visitors to Coex. Finally, in November, Coex hosted Food Week, the largest food exhibition in the latter half of the year, attracting over 50,000 attendees. These events not only expanded Coex’s physical footprint but also demonstrated its commitment to globalization and diversified content for sustainable growth.

Coex’s Vision for 2024

As we step into 2024, Coex is poised to expand its influence in the MICE industry through strategic expansion. The unveiling of “THE PLATZ” a versatile event hall on the second floor of the Coex exhibition hall, in January signifies a renewed commitment to host a wide array of events, including exhibitions, seminars, conferences, and banquets.
Mr. Dong-ki Lee, President of Coex, stated, “We are expanding the exhibition and conference spaces at Coex to meet the growing demand from companies and organizations seeking to host events here.” He further elaborated, “Currently, Coex offers a total exhibition and conference space of 48,000 square meters, and we plan to increase this by 2,500 square meters in 2024 and an additional 2,500 square meters by 2025 to cater to the needs of our customers.”
Moreover, Coex is gearing up to operate the Coex Magok Convention Center, located in Magok-dong, Gangseo-gu, Seoul, scheduled to open in November of this year. Leveraging its experience in managing the massive Trade Center in Gangnam, Coex aims to brand the convention center in Magok as “Coex Magok LaWest” and transform the area into a hub for MICE activities in western Seoul.
The Coex Magok LaWest boasts a total floor area of 20,000 square meters, featuring an exhibition hall capable of accommodating up to 400 booths and conference rooms capable of hosting up to 13,000 attendees. With excellent transportation connectivity and a fully-equipped MICE infrastructure, this facility is poised to alleviate the shortage of MICE spaces in Seoul effectively.
Within a 10-kilometer radius of Magok, numerous industrial complexes have been established, making it an ideal environment for hosting B2B exhibitions. Additionally, the region boasts a resident population of approximately 6.88 million people within a 10-kilometer radius, providing an optimal setting for B2C exhibitions.
Anticipated to achieve a 60% operational rate during its first year, Coex Magok is already receiving inquiries for conference room rentals, further solidifying its role in the MICE landscape.

Elevating Sustainability with “good plan”

Coex is at the forefront of promoting sustainability within the MICE industry, and it has introduced the “good plan” a premium eco-friendly event service. This service encompasses various eco-friendly elements, including the “AV DROP,” a rapid and eco-friendly assembly stage system, “Best Systems” lighting booths, and the “vomo” eco-friendly booth package exclusively used by the world’s second-largest art fair, Art Basel.
The AV DROP system has been utilized in approximately 160 events to create diverse spaces such as planning zones, seminar areas, VIP lounges, and photo zones for events like AWS Summit Seoul, Coffee Expo All That Travel, and Food Week.
“good plan” aligns with the current focus of the MICE industry on sustainability, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), and carbon neutrality. Coex is the third organization in South Korea to join the “Net Zero Carbon Events Pledge,” a global MICE industry initiative that aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, aligning with the Paris Agreement and United Nations Climate Change Convention resolutions.
Furthermore, Coex has entered into an agreement for “ESG Cooperation in Seoul Global Exhibitions” with Exporum and KOREA E&EX INC., solidifying its commitment to practicing ESG principles and contributing to the Seoul city’s efforts in this direction.

Shifting Focus: From Innovation to Sustainability

While innovation was a central theme in the convention industry pre-pandemic, the industry is now shifting its focus towards sustainability, ESG, and carbon neutrality. Mr. Lee Dong-gi, President of Coex, highlighted the industry’s commitment to environmentally friendly practices, stating, “Convention centers and large exhibition organizers worldwide are grappling with ways to reduce energy consumption, cut carbon emissions, and minimize waste and food waste generated after events, all in response to the climate crisis.”
Coex’s dedication to this ethos ensures it will continue to discover and expand eco-friendly service offerings that align with the spirit of the times.


 
 
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AKEI Playing a Vital Role in Development of Korea’s Exhibition Industry

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The Association of Korean Exhibition Industry (AKEI) is the organization in charge of the exhibition industry development project selected by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE) in accordance with the nation’s Exhibition Industry Development Act.
Since its establishment in 2002 with the purpose of fostering Korea’s exhibition industry, and thereby contributing to the development of the national economy, AKEI has been implementing projects to promote the exhibition industry — while drafting the government’s exhibition industry policy, and carrying out various related tasks. In addition, as a representative organization of Korea’s exhibition industry, it identifies trends in the global exhibition industry, and supports international cooperation with Korea’s exhibition industry through exchanges and cooperation with overseas exhibition industry-related organizations and businesses — such as major international associations like UFI, AFECA, and IAEE in the global exhibition industry.
AKEI’s major projects include supporting the holding of domestic exhibitions; evaluation projects and exhibition-industry foundation-building projects — such as exhibition certification; statistical surveys; public relations; holding celebrations on the exhibition industry day. In addition, AKEI is conducting a pre-sales support project led by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS) to promote collaboration with small business owners and exhibition professional training projects of the Ministry of Employment and Labor — and is carrying out various projects to develop Korea’s exhibition industry.
AKEI also provides member company services such as networking for shared growth and mutual prosperity in the exhibition industry. Members include 72 companies — including trade promotion organizations such as KOTRA; and the Korea International Trade Association (KITA); exhibition centers such as COEX and KINTEX; industry groups and private exhibition organizers; and exhibition design installation and service providers.

Certification Exhibitions

Among the various projects carried out by AKEI, the ‛Exhibition Certification System Operation Project’ refers to objectively researching and confirming data on exhibition areas, the number of participating companies, and the number of visitors submitted by exhibition organizers according to standardized standards, and granting a certification mark in order to officially certify.
It is operated for the purpose of securing reliable and objective data statistics on exhibition participants and visitors and contributing to the internationalization of Korean exhibitions.
As the proportion and importance of exhibitions in terms of corporate marketing gradually increased, the exhibition certification system began as one of the policy measures to enhance the performance of companies’ participation in exhibitions. For this reason, after a pilot certification period from 2002 to 2004, a formal certification system was introduced for exhibitions seeking certification, starting in 2005.
Certification regulations apply with the regulations of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI). AKEI assesses the qualifications by classifying into certification or international certification depending on the contents of the certification, and whether the requirements are met or not. More than 130 exhibitions are certified annually, and major certified exhibitions include Seoul ADEX, COPHEX, and KES.


 
 
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Korea’s Major Exhibition Centers

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Korea’s Exhibition Centers See Growing Demand for Industry Exhibitions Related to New Growth Engines
 

Since 2020, when the coronavirus pandemic began, there has been gradually increasing demand for holding exhibitions, which had been suppressed due to the social and national atmosphere caused by the coronavirus pandemic. This increasing demand has led to a significant increase in exhibition hall operating profits, mainly in Korea’s major exhibition centers.
In 2023, demand for exhibitions, international conferences, corporate meetings, and year-end events at major exhibition centers across the country has almost reached the level of 2019, to where it was before the pandemic.
Based on the operation rate and rental area in 2024, it is expected to be similar to or slightly increased compared to 2023. The main reasons are attributable to the organizers’ active business promotion efforts, the resumption of international conferences, and the enlargement of exhibitions after the pandemic.
By industry group, growth is predicted for industry exhibitions related to new growth engines such as secondary batteries, biohealth, next-generation displays, and electric vehicles.

New Trends
Since the coronavirus outbreak, a notable common feature of each industry at major exhibition centers across the country been the increasing demand for exhibitions in the health, medical, optics, precision fields, culture, arts, and the public sector. Among the B2C exhibitions in specific fields, there are cases where the numbers of visitors have increased very sharply based on the consumption patterns of the MZ generation. After the pandemic, existing large exhibitions and exhibitions held by professional exhibition organizers (PEOs) in the metropolitan area have not been significantly affected and are being maintained to some extent.
Major exhibition centers aim to create new value for customer satisfaction by establishing realistic operating policies; promoting ESG to respond to the climate crisis; and expanding digitalization and convenience facilities based upon customers’ experiences – by sensitively detecting changes in society and industry, rather than merely providing venues.


 
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