Shreya Shimpi
The event brought together key players in the tourism and hospitality industry, featuring participation from 7 Destination Management Companies (DMCs), 2 Airlines, 1 Regional Tourism Organization (RTO), and 1 Shopping representative.
The roadshow aimed at highlighting the unique facilities that Korea has to offer for housing MICE events. The attendees interacted with the participants of the roadshow to gain insights about the country’s capabilities to host MICE events. Korea has emerged as of the premier and most sought-after destination for MICE events because of the modern state-of-the-art infrastructure, cultural richness, technological advancements and seamless connectivity. Korea is one of the safest and most convenient travel destinations in the world thanks to the safe streets, foreigner-friendly signs and convenient public transportation.
Above all, it is a Wi-Fi heaven as most of the tourist places offer free and fast Wi-Fi so that you can access all the information that you need. The Ulsan Cultural and Tourism Foundation, the RTO shared valuable insights on the regional attractions and collaborative opportunities which can be explored beyond convention halls. Korea offers a perfect blend of diverse landscapes, cultural richness and gastronomical experiences along with the best facilities to house MICE events.
Mr. Myong Kil Yun, Regional Director India & SAARC Countries at the Korea Tourism Organization, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to bring Korea’s MICE offerings to Mumbai. The roadshow allowed us to connect with key stakeholders and demonstrate why Korea is an ideal destination for hosting memorable and successful business events.”
Addressing the gathering about the MICE opportunities and regional tourism he said, “Korea is a stunning and diverse country with something to offer everyone such as breath-taking natural sceneries cultural richness and history. In recent years we have seen a growing number of Indian visitors visiting Korea. In 2019, over 1.4 lakh Indians visited Korea and this number is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. There are a number of factors driving this growth. Firstly, there is a growing awareness of Korea in India thanks to the popularity of K-pop culture and cuisine. The Korea Tourism Organization has made a number of efforts to simplify tourism from India which includes simplifying the visa process of corporate groups, offering attractive incentives for MICE groups and launching the K-incentive scheme for various travel agents. Korea is a great destination for both MICE and leisure tourism. Korea also offers several unique MICE venues. I am delighted to share with you that a group of 3200 employees across India is scheduled to visit Korea in October as a part of their international training programme. For leisure tourism Korea has various things to offer such as beautiful beaches, palaces and museums.”
Mr. Young-og Kim, Consul General-Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Mumbai said “In 1973 our two countries established diplomatic ties. This year marks the fiftieth anniversary of the diplomatic relationship between India and Korea. The comprehensive economic agreement between our two countries in 2009 played a huge role in capitalising on bilateral economic relationships. The trade is driving so much growth that I am confident that we are now truly very important partners of each other. I strongly believe that Korea and India will be closer friends and gain a much deeper understanding of each other through more cultural exchanges through travel and tourism.”
Korea is one of the most spirited and vibrant countries in the world offering the perfect blend of modern infrastructure, sustainable tourism, rich culture, food and picturesque landscapes.
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