Seoul Convention Bureau to Promote More of Hybrid Model Events in its MICE Recovery

Press Room > 2021

The bureau has undertaken some comprehensive measures for the resumption of the MICE industry in the city, and through its strategic long-term plans aim to support hybrid models of global standard, for both face-to-face and screen-to-screen business interaction in a quality environment of cutting-edge technology with existing quarantine procedures.

Essential supports include the Reassuring Package which is designed as an effective safeguard for MICE participants when business starts up again within the year. The package provides the necessary services of emergency medical insurance, language services, general concierge services for hotel and transportation reservations.

While organisers of online and hybrid events, are eligible for financial aid with as much as KRW10 million are given as a stipend for operating expenses.

Attention however, is focused, on sustaining the local MICE industry through attracting international conferences. Application requirements have eased for event planners to receive appropriate backing when hosting an international conference. At the bidding phase assistance includes thorough consultation, official supporting letters, presentation tips and a maximum of KRW200 million during the hosting phase.

To further assist in advancing skills of event planners in responding to the needs for hybrid approaches, the bureau is developing an online platform in cooperation with the Korea Exhibition Organizers Association for consulting services in international marketing and information technology. This will help relieve the burden of event planners in producing their own online platform.

In its press release, the Seoul Convention Bureau stated: Looking ahead, the bureau is confident in gaining an increased level of global competitiveness within the local exhibition sector upon the plan being completed.

A hybrid synergy of operative quarantine countermeasures and a multi-faceted plan of bolstering the capacity of MICE professionals are anticipated to both revitalise and further the sustainability of Seoul’s MICE industry.

The Seoul Convention Bureau has also established an international alliance with convention bureaus from The Hague, Geneva, Prague, Ottawa, and Durban by joining the Hybrid City Alliance, the first Asian convention bureau to do so.