This is where ancient temples and palaces stand alongside gleaming skyscrapers, bustling markets fill the air with the aromas of spicy street food and freshly brewed coffee, and a rich cultural heritage seamlessly blends with cutting-edge technology. Welcome to South Korea, a destination that is redefining the boundaries of meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions.
Seoul: The Pulsating Heart of MICE
Seoul, the capital city and the center for most MICE events, pulsates with energy and creativity. This vibrant metropolis has been crowned the ‘Best MICE City’ for nine consecutive years by Global Travelers GT (which you can read about here), and it’s easy to see why. From the sprawling COEX Convention & Exhibition Center to the sleek Seoul Convention Center and the expansive KINTEX, Seoul boasts an array of world-class meeting facilities that can accommodate events of any size and scope.
Offering a 360-degree virtual tour, you can start looking at COEX today! Click here to look at the virtual tour or check out their floor plans by clicking here.
But Seoul is more than just a collection of venues. It’s a city that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, where attendees can explore ancient landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace and the National Museum of Korea before indulging in the city’s shopping, dining and nightlife. When it’s time to unwind (or meet), Seoul’s 300 hotels (with over 100,000+ keys) offer many options that suit every taste and budget. From global luxury brands to regional and local familiar brands like Lotte, Banyan Tree, and Shangri-La, the city’s accommodations are as diverse as they are impressive.
A wonderful example of the high levels of hospitality that exist in South Korea is that of Josun Hotel. With a collection of hotels in their portfolio under the Marriott Brand, the Josun Palace hotel (a luxury collection) truly stands out. With 254 rooms and suites, the hotel boasts an impressive Art Collection sure to impress your delegates and you!
While Seoul is at the heart of most MICE events from North America, it’s just the beginning.
Incheon is an up-and-coming destination and a forever gateway to Korea. This waterfront city is home to the cutting-edge Songdo Convensia and the luxurious Paradise City resort complex, offering a wealth of options for events and incentives.
Check out the Paradise Hotel & Resort by clicking here And the Art Paradiso Hotel by clicking here.
And then there’s Jeju Island, a stunning volcanic oasis off Korea’s southern coast. Designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, Jeju is a nature lover’s paradise, with its lush green countryside, towering volcanic peaks, and stunning coastlines. But Jeju is more than just a pretty face. The island boasts state-of-the-art convention infrastructure and a wide range of unique event venues, from luxurious resorts to outdoor spaces and historic sites. Haevichi Hotel Jeju, with its modern design and breathtaking ocean views, is the perfect retreat for attendees looking to unwind in style.
For an immersive experience, here is something truly unique – witnessing the incredible Haenyeo divers, a tradition recognized by UNESCO. These fearless women, averaging 60 years of age, have mastered a dying art passed down through generations. Discover the fascinating culture and admire their strength as they plunge into the ocean’s depths, showcasing a side of Jeju you won’t want to miss. Learn more about the Haenyeo divers and this one-of-a-kind experience.
Support for MICE planners
At the core of Korea’s MICE success story is a commitment to partnership and support. The Korea Tourism Organization offer a wealth of resources and incentives for MICE planners, from venue selection and program planning to marketing support and on-site coordination. Whether you’re planning an intimate board meeting or a grand-scale exposition, the Korean MICE team will be with you every step of the way.
South Korea is more than a destination to consider. It is a symbol of a new era in meetings and events, where tradition and innovation, nature and technology, and culture and commerce come together in a swirl of colour, energy, and endless possibility.
So why settle for the ordinary when you can have the extraordinary?
Come and experience Korea for yourself. Your attendees will thank you.
Get in Touch
Ready to start planning your Korean MICE adventure? Reach out to the Korea Tourism Organization or the Jeju Convention & Visitors Bureau for more information and support. And be sure to check out our previous blog for even more inspiration and insights.
South Korea is waiting for you. Discover a MICE destination that will leave you and your attendees in awe.
