Meta Music System

January 30, 2024 by Leave a Comment
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[INQ. NO. 2401E03] Verses, Inc. is a music tech startup that is developing a user-driven music experience service. While traditional music was limited to just listening, in the metaverse space, Verses enables direct interaction with musicians, exploration of music-themed virtual worlds, and even enables users to control the musician’s world based on their preferences.
Verses has been at the forefront of utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to bring this new era of music to life.

A groundbreaking metaverse music product using artificial intelligence
Verses’s Meta Music System, which won the Best of Innovation Award at CES 2023, is a groundbreaking metaverse music product created using AI. It allows users to immerse themselves in the virtual world of musicians and explore various music themes, acquiring items that are then transformed by AI into personalized music. The product can be commercialized through apps, metaverse platforms, AR, and VR formats.
Additionally, within the Meta Music System community, users can share their own unique music creations and even issue NFTs.

Expanding the definition of music products for the metaverse era
Unlike traditional music products that only consist of recorded music, Verses’ Meta Music System expands the definition of music products for the metaverse era — by incorporating not only music, but also musicians and entire musical worlds. Technologically, it incorporates music auto-generation algorithms and visual growth systems.
The Meta Music System is currently in the commercialization phase, and Verses Inc. is collaborating with major entertainment companies in Korea that have prominent K-POP musicians, as well as Warner Music and others.
Furthermore, it is scheduled to be released in the second half of 2023 as a rhythm dance game on the metaverse platform Zepeto, which boasts 400 million users.


 
 
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Massagechair for Healthcare

January 30, 2024 by Leave a Comment
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[INQ. NO. 2401E02] Bodyfriend’s mission is extending people’s life expectancy by 10 years, and its goal is to build a healthcare platform that can manage their health through massage chairs in daily life.
After establishing its first medical R&D center, Bodyfriend is unrivaled in investing in medical-oriented research and development to maintain its competitive edge, focusing on five areas of technology, quality, design, service, and customer satisfaction.

Healthcare Robot
Phantom Rovo is Bodyfriend’s patented function for separate leg and foot massage. Bodyfriend’s Rovo function is available exclusively in its own products.
Phantom Rovo is the world’s first robotic product to provide core muscle relaxation and various stretches by independent leg movement, which the company calls ‘Robo walking technology.’ It provides eight different modes including yoga and pilates and helps rehab treatment at home, with functions that are not available with other competing products.

Home-Healthcare Trainer
Davinci is the world’s first body-composition measuring massage chair with the aesthetic sense of Italdesign.

Davinci is designed to determine the user’s current fat, muscle, and bone mass, and provides personalized services based on the user’s current BIA status. It has the function of measuring and analyzing seven body components and recommending massage suitable for your body condition.
 
 
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Breakers & Switchgear

January 30, 2024 by Leave a Comment
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[INQ. NO. 2401E01] Dong-A Electric Co., Ltd. is a manufacturer specializing in breakers and switchgear.
Based on its 68-year history and technology, quick work-sharing and learning organization within the company enables quick adaptation to the rapidly changing overseas markets and prompt decision-making.
Dong-A Electric is thus actively advancing into the overseas market as well as the domestic market through new-product development – applying ethical and transparent management. It is a trusted company as a global small but strong company that is growing even in the face of rapid changes in the market.
Dong-A Electric’s current popular export items include Molded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCB), Earth Leakage Circuit Breakers (ELCB), Magnetic Contactors (MC) and Magnetic Switches (MS).
Dong-A Electric’s Zero Current Transformer (ZCT)-embedded MCCBs and twin 4P-type ELCBs are the world’s first of their kind. These items have been designated as ‘New Excellent Products (NEP)’ by the Public Procurement Service of South Korea. Their cartridge-type structure ensures better user convenience. MCCBs, ELCBs, and ZCT-embedded MCCBs come in the same sizes.

Minimized attachment space thanks to compact size and light weight
These products require minimized attachment space due to their compact sizes and light weight. All-in-one type MCCBs enable sharply reduced material and personnel costs. Hot-selling DB and DBE series models in the MCCB and ELCB sector are economic breakers that provide effective protection from fire danger and equipment damage caused by overload or short. Both complete electric and thermal electric types present excellent performance characteristics. With their standardized sizes, they have great compatibility with other types of products and accessories.
Meeting international quality standards, the MCs and MSs from the maker feature simple wiring, stable movement, and long mechanical/electronic life. Pouring huge investments into research and development, the manufacturer has been designated as an “INNO-BIZ” company by the Korean government.
“We will fulfill our role and missions in this field in Korea by constantly developing new technologies and focusing on transparent administration,” remarked the president of the company.


 
 
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BEXCO, Advancing to Becomea Global MICE Platform in 2024

January 29, 2024 by Leave a Comment
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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


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

January 29, 2024 by Leave a Comment
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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

January 29, 2024 by Leave a Comment
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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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Korea’s Major Exhibition Centers

January 29, 2024 by Leave a Comment
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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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AKEI Playing a Vital Role in Development ……

January 29, 2024 by Leave a Comment
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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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Experience Jeju at a Leisurely Pace

December 22, 2023 by Leave a Comment
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One of the main reasons people go on vacation is to get rid of stress. The stress-relieving powers of simple things such as enjoying a good meal or buying some new shoes are amplified when on vacation! Everything tastes better and looks better, even your home. Jeju Island is the perfect place to relax, with a natural environment, delicious local foods, and unique shopping opportunities. Set out now for your very own stress-relieving trip to Jeju-do!
There are a number of smaller islands around Jeju, including Udo and Marado Islands. These days, Gapado Island, the fourth largest island, has become a popular day-trip destination. The island resembles a swimming ray when seen from above. The island is most visited during spring, when the fields of green barley are waving in the sea breeze.

Setting off for Gapado Island
The ferry to Gapado Island departs from Unjinhang Harbor in Hamo-ri, Seogwipo-si off the southwest coast. The ferry from Unjinhang Harbor operates from 09:00 to 16:00, although the last ferry back from Gapado Island is at 16:20. Tickets are purchased as a round-trip set, so if you leave after 15:00, you’ll have to spend the night on the island and return the next morning. Tickets must be purchased at least 40 minutes before departure, in order for all passengers to be recorded. On-site ticket purchase is available but you may have to wait a few hours until the next ferry if you visit during the peak season. It’s recommended to reserve tickets in advance, either online or over the phone. Foreigners must submit their passport for verification when purchasing or picking up their ticket on-site.

Fun on Gapado Island
The best way to see all the island has to offer in a short amount of time is by renting a bicycle. The bike rental is located right at the harbor, so you can’t miss it! There are both regular and tandem bicycles for rent, at a rate of 5,000 won and 10,000 won respectively. Payment is only accepted in cash, so be sure to plan ahead if you want to rent one.
There is a circular road around the coast of the island that offers beautiful sights of the sea, but don’t forget the interior of the island. One place you must see is Somang Observation Deck. Located at the highest point of the island, both Marado Island to the south and Hallasan Mountain to the north can be seen from the observation deck. The railings of the deck are decorated with many ribbons with wishes and hopes, somang in Korean, written on them, giving the location its name.
Another attraction on the island is Pang Gallery, dedicated to the unique painting style of women in the Mithila region of the Indian subcontinent. The art is created with natural dyes and pigments, using fingers and twigs as brushes. The paintings generally focus on nature, daily life, or Hindu gods and goddesses.

Eat your stress away

Special treat of the island
There are a number of local specialties on Gapado Island, foremost of which is green barley ice cream! This soft serve ice cream is popular among all ages, and the pale green color makes for beautiful photos. The ice cream can be ordered in a cup or cone, both of which are served with a small ppeongtwigi (rice puff) snack.
Other snacks on the island include green barley makgeolli (rice wine) and green barley misutgaru (roasted grain drink). All these treats can be found at the convenience stores and snack bars around the harbor. We recommend buying snacks to enjoy while you wait for the ferry to return.

Pier 22
Being an island, it’s obvious that some of the best foods you’ll find in Jeju are seafood dishes! If you’re looking for a dish favored by locals, try the red-banded lobster jjim (steamed lobster) from Pier 22 near Geumneungeutteum Beach. Red-banded lobsters are a unique species of lobster with a hard, sharp shell, found only the in southern sea around Korea. Because of the hard shell, the restaurant gives each diner a small wooden hammer to crack the shell! The sweet lobster meat tastes great dipped in ranch dressing.

Umu Pudding
Umu Pudding is a special dessert found only on Jeju Island! The name umu comes from the Korean word for red algae, umutgasari. When it is boiled, it releases a gelatin substance, known as agar. The red algae used at Umu Pudding is harvested by haenyeo, female divers of Jeju. You can choose from three flavors, the standard custard, matcha-flavored, or chocolate pudding. The shop also sells products with an Umu character design that make for great souvenirs. Before leaving, be sure to get a few pictures of the sweet interior!

Black pork
The most famous food from Jeju is heukdwaeji, otherwise known as black pork! Jeju’s local black pigs have played an important part in the history, culture, and livelihood of the island. Grilled black pork tastes best after being dipped in meljeot (salted anchovy) for about 20 seconds. To eat like a Korean, wrap the meat and some pamuchim(spicy spring onions) in a lettuce or perilla leaf.

Pork noodles
You can eat guksu (noodles) anywhere in Korea, but gogi guksu (pork noodles) is a specialty of Jeju! Each bowl is filled with noodles and pork slices for a filling meal. The pork adds to the powerful flavor of the broth. The dish is served plain but chili pepper powder can be added to taste. Even if you add a lot to make it super spicy, the broth maintains its flavor.

Beltfish & mackerel dishes
Before leaving Jeju, you have to try galchi (beltfish) or godeungeo (mackerel). These two fish can be served a variety of ways, although the most common are stewed and fried; spicy stewed beltfish is the most popular. The taste of stewed beltfish will vary slightly by restaurant, but they are all marked by their strong seasoning. The spicy yet slightly sweet flavor is addicting! Most restaurants in Jeju use a local silver beltfish, which has an even stronger taste. Radish and potatoes are also stewed with the beltfish for a full meal.

Retail therapy

Sumokwon Night Market
Sumokwon Night Market is the latest trending location for nightlife in Jeju! Located near Halla Arboretum, the market draws in as many tourists as the popular night markets in Seoul. The entire area is decorated in cute photo zones and features both local specialty products and handmade items. Purchase some of the foods available from the food trucks, such as giant turkey drumsticks, black pork ribs, or fresh pineapple juice, to quench any late-night cravings!

Jeju Local Products Exhibition & Sales Market
Jeju has developed a unique culture due to being so far separated from the Korean peninsula. Thanks to this, there are plenty of local products that will please anyone who receives one as a gift! The best place to visit for these special souvenir items is the Jeju Local Products Exhibition & Sales Market. The market has over 2,200 items created by 138 individual shops! You’re sure to find something for everyone here; just be sure you don’t forget a gift for yourself!

More info

▶ 1330 Korea Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Vietnamese, Thai, Malay)

The above article is courtesy of VisitKorea, the official website of the Korea Tourism Organization (www.visitkorea.or.kr)


 
 
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Exports increase by 7% in November

December 22, 2023 by Leave a Comment
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Semiconductor exports also rise

Exports increased in November this year compared to last year, continuing the ‘export plus’ trend for two consecutive months. Exports of semiconductors, Korea’s main product, also turned to growth for the first time in the 16 months since August last year. With export recovery becoming increasingly evident, the trade balance also remained in surplus for six consecutive months. Exports in November amounted to US$55.8 billion, up 7.8% from the same month last year.

Korea’s monthly exports had decreased for 12 consecutive months from October of last year to last September due to the sluggish exports of semiconductors and falling exports to China. However, after exports turned to an increase in October 2023, the recovery appears to have become more evident in November 2023.
This year’s total export volume is also on a steady upward trend. Exports, which fell to $46.3 billion last January, have trended upward and reached the highest level of the year in November.
By item, exports of 12 of the 15 major export items increased, showing the largest increase this year.
Semiconductor exports, which were a key factor in Korea’s overall export slump, were also beginning to recover in November, increasing by 12.9% to $9.5 billion.
The rising export trend of automobiles (21.5%), general machinery (14.1%), home appliances (14.1%), and ships (38.5%) continued, and in November, exports of petrochemicals (5.9%) and biohealth (18.8%), and secondary batteries (23.4%) ‒ all of which had recently been sluggish ‒ also increased.
By region, there were increased exports to six of Korea’s nine major export markets. Exports to the United States recorded $10.9 billion, increasing compared to the same month last year for four consecutive months ‒ while exports to ASEAN and the European Union (EU) also increased.
Exports to China, the largest export market, decreased by 0.2%, falling slightly short of an upward trend. However, exports in November recorded $11.4 billion, continuing to exceed $10 billion for four consecutive months, showing signs of recovery since last summer.
Korea’s imports in November amounted to $52 billion, down 11.6% from the same month last year. The decline in energy import prices had a significant impact, with total energy imports decreasing by 22.2%, with gas and coal imports decreasing by 45% and 40%, respectively.

As a result, the trade balance in November showed a surplus of $3.8 billion. It has been in surplus for six consecutive months since last June. November’s trade surplus is the largest in 26 months since September 2021.
 
 
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