Busan Transforms into a Premier Destination for International Meetings and Events
Busan, Korea’s largest port city, is poised to become a global hub for international meetings and events. With a new international airport set to open in 2029, the city is investing heavily in its MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) infrastructure and strategy.
The
Haevenue MICE Zone
, established in 2020, provides comprehensive support for MICE tourists within a five-kilometer radius of the Bexco convention center. This zone encompasses hotels, department stores, and other facilities designed to meet the needs of MICE attendees.Beyond conventional MICE venues, Busan is incorporating
unique locations
such as large cafes and cultural spaces to host international events. Examples include Busan X the Sky observatory and P.ark, a multicultural space in Yeongdo District. These unique venues, selected by the Korea Tourism Organization, enhance the city’s appeal for diverse MICE events.The upcoming
Gadeok Island airport
, anticipated to open by December 2029, will significantly enhance Busan’s global accessibility. Currently, international visitors arriving via Incheon or Gimpo International Airports must transfer flights or take the KTX bullet train to reach Busan. The new airport aims to eliminate this inconvenience by providing direct connections, transforming Busan into a tri-port city integrating logistics, cargo, and passenger services.Busan has
increased its investment
in MICE tourism, raising its budget by 650 million won from the previous year to a total of 76.9 billion won. New initiatives include subsidies for MICE industry employees and companies, with incentives for employees with over a year of service and companies hiring such employees. Additionally, the city offers support for job-seekers through short-term positions in the MICE sector.Boosting the MICE industry is seen as vital for Busan’s economy. MICE tourists tend to spend more than general tourists, often bringing their families for subsequent visits. This results in significant economic contributions to local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Busan has a history of hosting major international events, such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Community (APEC) summit in 2005. The Nurimaru APEC House, built for this summit, remains a key venue in the Haevenue zone. The city continues to utilize this historic site for significant events, including VIP gatherings and special concerts.
The development of new facilities and infrastructure, including the upcoming Gadeok Island airport, positions Busan as a premier destination for MICE tourism. These enhancements are expected to attract more international events, benefiting travelers and significantly contributing to the local economy. By increasing accessibility and offering diverse venues, Busan aims to solidify its reputation in the global MICE industry, driving future growth and prosperity.
