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Korea Allures the Senses of Global Convention Promoters
Seoul Tourism Organization Captures the Spotlight at Asia's Largest MICE Expo
Wins Best Function Award for Second Consecutive Year, Reaffirming Seoul's Status, as a Top-10 Convention Destination
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| The Seoul Convention Bureau (SCB) of the Seoul Tourism Organization won the hearts of MICE buyers from around the world at the IT&CMA (Incentive Travel & Conventions Meetings Asia), held from October 6th to 8th at the Central World Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand. A special gala event titled "Seoul Soiree" allowed the SCB's presenters to display the full charms of Seoul as a travel destination by allowing visitors to experience the city's attractions through every one of the five senses. With "Feast on Asia" as the main theme of this year's IT&CMA, a wide variety of events highlighted the sights, sounds and tastes of Seoul. "Han (Korean) Style" fashion shows, dinner banquets, drawing shows and other unique events displayed traditional Korean hanbok dresses, Korean food, the Hangeul alphabet, traditional houses, Korean rice paper, and traditional music. Audience reaction to these events was enthusiastic, and there was general consensus that this year's show was the best yet. The "drawing show" was a surprise hit that combined art with technology to display Seoul's diverse charms, and the "Hanbok Fashion Show" provided a colorful finale to the event, by fusing elaborate traditional Korean costumes with serene traditional music. The food exhibit included Korean dishes from all four seasons, as well as a tasting corner that allowed visitors to sample the enticing flavors of Korean food. The banquet also featured traditional Korean dishes and drinks that elicited universal praise from the guests. Seoul was awarded the exhibition's Best Function Award for the second year in a row, drawing media attention not only to the event itself, but also to the capabilities of the city as a global convention center that is ranked 7th in the world and 2nd in Asia. Seoul's unique and colorful presentation also signaled to the world that Seoul's selection as the host city for next November's "G-20 Summit" was by no means accidental. Korea is a logical choice, given the substantial convention infrastructure in Seoul and other cities such as Incheon and Busan, combined with Korea's considerable economic, diplomatic, political and socio-cultural advances. The event also presented an ideal opportunity to promote Seoul's new convention center, slated for completion on a site adjoining the current Seoul Station in 2014, as well as the "Korea MICE Expo" that will be held in the city for three consecutive years from 2010. The presentation also brought together MICE representatives from all over Korea for one event, enabling the nation's industry leaders to reaffirm their commitment to cooperative growth based on strong partnerships. During the IT&CMA the Seoul Convention Bureau also held meetings with over 40 agencies and organizations on hosting future events and exhibitions. The multitude of buyers and visitors crowding Seoul's booth during the event illustrated Seoul's prowess as one of the world's top-ten convention cities as well as its rising global profile as a prime travel and business destination. |
