Event Highlights: Korea MICE Expo 2018

The Korea MICE Expo (KME2018), Korea’s largest exhibition for meetings and event professionals, concluded last June 16 at Songdo ConvensiA in Incheon. The event saw positive engagement among 250 domestic and foreign buyers from 32 countries, 266 MICE related organizations and companies, 21 foreign journalists, and other attendees.

In its 19th year, the Korea MICE Expo took a creative and innovative approach in generating interest in Korea as an international destination for business events. Under the theme ‘Hallyu meets MICE’ – the event presented the future of the local MICE by utilizing elements of Hallyu (Korean Wave) such as k-pop, k-drama, and etc. Over the years, hallyu have had strong influence in attracting groups from Japan, China, Southeast Asia, and Western Europe.

During the Opening Ceremony, the keynote speech was given by Mr. Ahn Suwook, Managing Director of SM Entertainment, one of the largest entertainment companies in Korea. Ahn described in detail the activities that led to the consideration of incorporating hallyu in MICE venues, leisure experiences, and other group offerings.

 

On the same day was also the appointment of Korea’s first Honorary Ambassador of MICE to popular K-pop group, Shinee. The group gained worldwide recognition and popularity since their debut in 2008. They are expected to contribute greatly to increase the appeal of MICE to the world by taking part in promotional videos, welcome cards, welcome parties and other programs included in the new Korea Incentive Support (KIS) Program.

 

 

Click here to learn more about the Korea Corporate Meetings & Incentive Support Program

South Korea Maintains Top Ranks in Global Meetings Statistics Reports

 

South Korea remains world’s number 1 destination for international meetings for two consecutive years with 1,297 meetings hosted in 2017 – this is according to the latest international meetings statistics report by the Union of International Associations (UIA).

 

Based on the report, Korea accounts for 12.6% of the 10,786 total international meetings recorded by the UIA, reflecting a 3.1% growth in the global market share from the previous year. Furthermore, in the city rankings, the capital city Seoul made it to the top 3 with 688 meetings, following Singapore (877 meetings) and Brussels (763 meetings) respectively.

 

Meanwhile, Korea also maintained 13^thplace on the latest International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) World rankings with 279 qualified meetings hosted in 2017. The following countries are Australia (14th), Sweden (15th), Brazil (16th), and Switzerland (17th). Among the Asia countries, South Korea ranks 3rd place after Japan (1st) and China (2nd).

 

After its recent success in hosting two highly significant events, 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics and North-South Korea summit, Korea expects an increase in interest and demand to host business events in the country.

 

Especially, the PyeongChang Winter Olympics has bolstered confidence to Gangwon-do province as a MICE destination, starting with the PATA Annual Summit 2018 which was held in the Olympic city on May 17.

 

In line with this, the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) is promoting and developing more tour programs to the demilitarized zone (DMZ), in response to the growing demand sparked by the inter-Korean summit. More so, it has been found out in a recent study conducted by KTO that a half-day visit to the DMZ area was the most popular tour among foreign tourists.

 

 

Finally, Korea's largest business events tradeshow 'Korea MICE Expo' was successfully held last June 13 (Wed) – 15 (Fri) in Songdo Convensia, Incheon. Approximately 3,000 people are expected to attend the event, including 266 exhibiting local suppliers and over 250 domestic and foreign buyers. Under the theme ‘Hallyu meets MICE’, Korea sought to diversify its portfolio to attract more international conventions and incentive tours from all over the world by introducing Korean pop culture in music, movies, drama, and more. During the event, K-pop group Shinee was also present and was appointed as Korea’s first Honorary Ambassador of MICE.

 

The growing interest in Korea as a meetings destination is also reflected by the increasing number of business events expected to be hosted in the country in the following years, this includes the 2019 IDF World Diabetes Congress, 2019 International Congress for Conservation Biology, 2019 International Renewable Energy Conference, 17^th Asiana Geosciences Society Meeting, and the 2021 IEEE International Symposium for Circuits and Systems.

 

Click here for the 'Top 10 Reasons to Choose Korea'

Immerse, Enjoy, Engage

Korea Takes Post-Meeting Activities to the Next Level

 

Maintaining a good spot on the top global meetings destination list over the years now, Korea is without a doubt a pro in hosting business events of any size and type. In 2017, the country has welcomed large-scale conventions and travel incentives including the 30,000 delegates of the UIA Seoul World Congress and the 183,307 total number of incentive travelers. Korea expects more groups to come this year.

 

The challenge now is how to keep delegates entertained after meetings. "MICE visitors spend 1.8 times higher than general tourists. It's a value-added industry that contributes to the total tourism income of the region while generating more jobs as well." says, Baeho Kim, Director of MICE Planning Team at Korea Tourism Organization (KTO). For visitors to extend their stay mean an additional contribution to the country's economy.

 

Its slogan "Korea, Beyond Meetings", the country showcases Korea as an ideal business events' destination. Korea offers not only success, in hosting events, but it also provides visitors a variety of tourist attractions and unique activities. 

 

HERE ARE THE TOP RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES IN KOREA!

With too little time to spare, Korea takes you to several major attraction sites without hailing a taxi. Simply by taking one of the most convenient public modes of transportation, the subway can bring you right in front of timeless heritages perfectly tucked in major business districts.

 

1. Explore the Grand Palaces in Traditional Korean Clothing

Royal Grand Palaces in Korea are one of the best sights you could see - and now experience fully! In order to preserve and promote the Korean Traditional Costume, Hanbok, the government had set-up booths where visitors can not only rent Hanbok for free and take a picture with, but they can also wander in the palace gardens or in nearby shops wearing it.

 

There are also several shops located around palaces which allow rental of a wide variety of Hanbok for approximately 15,000 won. Some offer accessories and make-up services to complete the experience.

 

Tip: The fun does not stop there; tourists who are wearing Hanboks can get 10% discounts when eating out at selected restaurants around the palace.

 

2. Test your Korean Culinary Skills

The new K-Style Hub in Seoul was primarily built to promote Hansik, Korean Traditional Food. The hub consists of an exhibition on the 3rd floor where you can read some poetry inspired by Korean dishes, see and smell various Korean spices, and play with interactive displays such as creating a set of Korean side dishes. The Experience Hall on the 4th floor is where you can learn how to cook a Korean dish, snack, or drink. Beautiful and unique souvenirs such as Kimchi chips are available on the 5th floor shop.

 

 

If you want a place to rest, enjoy Hallyu, try out advance medical services for free, you can visit the 2nd floor of K-Style Hub.

 

Address: 40, Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul 

3. Bargain all you can at Korea's shopping Mecca

If your meetings went overtime, Dongdaemun Shopping District is the place to be. Shopping malls are open in the morning but the area goes more vibrant as dawn approaches. You can find a multitude of shops selling a variety of items such as traditional Korean souvenirs, latest fashion trends, and even those cute socks that could possibly pass as the perfect gift to your colleagues.

 

 

Try out delicious Korean street food such as sweet and spicy ddeokbokki, kimbap, odeng (fish cakes), hotteok (sweet Korean pancake) and more around the area. 

 

4. Learn and taste some of Korea's traditional liquor

Located in one of the quirkiest streets of Seoul, Samcheongdong, is a hidden gem for all alcohol-enthusiast.

 

Entering the Samhae soju-ga, you will be greeted by no other than Kim Taeksang, Seoul city's Intangible Cultural Property No. 8 and a master of samhae soju-ga production. Inside his workshop, small to medium sized groups can learn about the history of Samhae-ju, a distilled alcohol enjoyed by noblemen in the Joseon dynasty, and taste more than 10 types of samhae-ju varying in flavor and alcohol level. You may want to purchase some of his drinks, because they are oh-so-delicious!

 

Address: 15, Samcheong-ro 9-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul 

Telephone Number: +82 -70-8202-9165

 

5. Dive into Zen

If you want a quick escape from the bustling city - a temple stay is a perfect getaway for you. Luckily, Seoul has a few good temples that offer a myriad of programs for various durations, such as tea-ceremony, lantern-making, temple tours, zen meditation, and temple stay.

 

 

Not sure where to go? Jogyesa (Bongeunsa) is a temple frequently visited by international meeting participants due to its close proximity to COEX. If you have some days to spend, take the KTX train to PyeongChang and immerse yourself in zen with Gangwon's natural beauty as a backdrop at Woljeongsa Temple. 

6. Take a glimpse of North Korea

One of the most popular tourist activities in Korea is a quick visit to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), where they can get a closer look at North-South Korean border.

 

 

Influenced by the famous Korean drama "Descendants of the Sun", most tours to DMZ now include activities that allow you to experience the military life at Camp Greaves, a former US military base. Here, you can try on military costumes, recreate scenes from the drama, or even participate in some cultural experience programs too.

 

To learn more about holding meetings, conventions, incentive travel, business events, and how you could avail the support of Korea MICE Bureau, visit koreaconvention.org, call +82-3073803284, or email mice@knto.or.kr

Click here to find other unique experiences in Korea 

 

Korea’s Leading Business Events’ Trade Show to Kick-off on June 14

 

TheKorea MICE Expo (KME), the nation’s largest trade show for incentive planners and meeting professionals, will take place on June 14-15, 2018 in Songdo ConvensiA, Incheon.

 

 

The two-day event will provide a perfect venue for over 2,000 expected attending MICE industry professionals to engage with 300 exhibiting local service providers, including convention bureaus, unique venues, and travel agencies.

 

To foster a business-friendly event, this year’s Korea MICE Expo will be in an unconventional format, ditching the usual sit-down gala dinner and forums.

 

“We want this expo to be bigger and meaningful to all the participants. We will make KME 2018 a platform where buyers and suppliers can truly acquire business potentials,” said Cheolbom Park, Director of the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) Meetings & Incentives Team. A standing networking party will replace the usual sit-down gala dinner to let guests interact freely. Also, convention bureaus will showcase not only their MICE expertise but also their local food specialties during the reception.

 

For the first time, the Korea MICE Expo will have a theme ‘Hallyu meets MICE’ offering participants new venues, activities, and discussions related to popular Korean films, dramas, and music. A main highlight of the event includes the Opening Keynote by Mr. Soo-Wook Ahn, Executive Director of SM Entertainment, one of the leading entertainment groups in Korea. His speech will tackle ways on how to incorporate Hallyu (Korean Wave) in the MICE industry. Furthermore, the KTO Hallyu Tourism Team will also be joining the exhibition.

 

Celebrating its 19th year, the event will also introduce new programs such as Destination Presentations, Knowledge Cafe and Young MICE Professionals booth, cultural performances, and tours - showcasing some of Korea’s finest destination for incentive travel and corporate meetings.

 

“Korea has become a favorable destination for incentive travel, especially for groups coming from Southeast Asia. The increasing number of groups returning to Korea is a testament that the country has an infinite selection of places and activities that are able to please varying preferences,” said Mr. Baeho Kim, Acting Executive Director of the Korea Tourism Organization - MICE Bureau. According to data, the number of returning incentive visitors to Korea in 2017 grew by 24% from the previous year, with 240 groups carrying 36,720 delegates.

 

The Korea Tourism Organization invites event professionals to come and join the Korea MICE Expo 2018. For inquiries, send us an email at mice@knto.or.kr.

 

###

 

About Korea MICE Bureau (KMB)

Under the Korea Tourism Organization, KMB aims to establish Korea as a top meeting and incentive travel destination. KMB serves as liaison to local convention bureaus, venues, PCO, and DMC to ensure an organized planning and successful execution of events. To learn more about KMB’s support program, visit www.koreaconvention.org   

Korea to Host its Largest MICE Road Show in Malaysia

Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) will be hosting its largest MICE Road Show on May 11 (Thurs) at Mandarin Oriental KLCC in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in order to diversify and develop the incentive travel and corporate meetings market in Southeast Asia.

 

During the road show in Singapore last year, Korea was successful in attracting Hai-O Marketing Group from Malaysia, which sent approximately 1,200 delegates to Korea early this year. Over the years, Malaysia has shown great importance in enhancing Korea's efforts in tapping the Southeast Asian market and sustaining its growth which contributes to the tourist arrivals in Korea. As one of the top markets for business events in Korea, Malaysia has been selected to host Korea's first and largest MICE road show in Southeast Asia this year.

Korea will be leading a big delegation composed of 44 organizations and MICE representatives, including local convention bureaus, convention centers, MICE-specialized travel agencies, hotels, and more. Meanwhile, the event will be participated by over 200 global business incentive groups, meeting planners, journalists, and other industry partners.

The Korea MICE Road Show will showcase Korea's offerings as a top meeting destination to influential Malaysian buyers - introducing new unique venues, popular tourist attractions, and Korea's support program for incentive travel and corporate meetings. Participants of the event will have the opportunity to experience modern Korean culture, starting with a sumptuous welcome dinner, followed by a sophisticated performance using a large LED screen and a B-boy performance.

According to KTO's recent study, the total number of incentive visitor arrivals from Southeast Asia reached 139,934 in 2017, a 31.4% increase from the previous year, reflecting growth in the incentive market. While having recorded a total of 59,000 inbound tourists to Korea until April this year, Korea is currently devising a marketing strategy to expand and diversify its MICE market.

“In March this year, we have commenced our various activities to promote Korea in major Asian cities such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Hanoi, starting with Jakarta. We will continue to make efforts to grow Southeast Asia as a strategic market for Korea's incentive tourism” Park Chul-Bum, Director of KTO Meetings & Incentive Team said.

Korea is one of the most preferred countries for business events in the world based on the Union of International Associations’ (UIA) Global Meetings Statistics, with 997 hosted in 2016. Korea is famous for its unique offerings, especially for its perfect blend of rich history and modern charms, numerous UNESCO world heritage site, 24-hour shopping experience, and a phenomenal growing interest in Hallyu (Korean Wave). 

 

 

Breaking the Ice: Structure Downtime

Koreans can go the extra mile when it comes to hospitality. Outside of meetings, Korean business hosts find ways to entertain their clients so that both parties can relax and get to know each other.

A common practice is grabbing dinner with business counterparts. Most of the time, Korean hosts will want to pay the bill. It is okay to refuse the offer, but accepting it is often preferred. In return, it is nice to be earnestly grateful and offer to pay for coffee, drinks, or dessert next. You can also try returning the favor at your next meal or later when they make the trip to visit you in your home country. 

Learn more about Korean customs

*If you have other tips to share when doing business in Korea, feel free to send us an email at mice@knto.or.kr with a subject 'KMICE Newsletter'. Submitted items may be subject to editing/proofreading to match the tone and style of our column.

Incentive Travel Ideas: One Day in Gyeonggi

 

Comfortably surrounding South Korea’s capital of Seoul in in the nation’s northeast and spanning a total area of 11,730km², Gyeonggi Province richly rewards its visitors with all kinds of cultural discoveries. From traditional markets and ancient fortresses to fun festivals and unique party venues, corporate incentive groups will find plenty of fun team building activities to keep them entertained and inspired. Below are two recommended one-day tour courses for groups, taking them to either northern or southern Gyeonggi Province.

 

Course 1: Northern Gyeonggi

 

(Morning) Imjingak DMZ Walk

 

Separating North and South Korea, the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) remains one of the nation’s most popular tourist attractions for its powerful history. Among the many tour sites is Imjingak memorial park, containing an observatory where visitors can look directly into North Korea, the remains of a rail bridge that once linked the two countries, along with a steam train that made the journey to bring home stranded POWs in 1953. Nearby Pyeonghwa Nuri Park, meanwhile, celebrates peace and unification, its green hills covered with art installations, multicolored windmills, and bamboo statues all spreading messages of unity. A special tour course of the area is provided by the Gyeonggi Convention Bureau, either on foot or by bicycle, with experience programs including commemorative stamp printing, tying “wish ribbons” for peace, and others. [More information about the park]

Total Distance: 7.8-8km. Can be modified depending on the number of participants and time availability

Duration:2-3 hours

 

(Afternoon) Paju Camp Greaves Military Experiences

Located near the DMZ, Camp Greaves is a former US military base. Rather than close the base when its function came to an end, it has since been turned into a historic experience site and jumping-off point for various DMZ attractions. In recent years, Camp Greaves has gained new fame as the film set of smash-hit KBS television drama Descendants of the Sun, making it a popular pilgrimage site for hallyu(Korean Wave) fans. Visitors to Camp Greaves can therefore try recreating their favorite scenes, or immerse themselves in the military base life of this one-time important outpost.

 

[More information]

 

(Night) Dinner at Aqua Planet Ilsan

 

 

Cap off the evening with an entertaining dinner party at Aqua Planet Ilsan, an aquarium/marine experience center near the KINTEX convention center. The event space provided, offering seating for up to 150 persons, is enhanced by a large water tank backdrop filled with colorful sea creatures. Gatherings can also take place on Aqua Planet’s balcony, overlooking Ilsan Lake Park and its musical fountain, which regularly displays programmed performances. [More information]

 

 

Course 2: Southern Gyeonggi

 

(Morning) Learn How to Deep-fry Korean-style at Icheon Chicken University

 

 

Korean-style fried chicken is easily one of the country’s most celebrated dishes among locals and visitors alike, and at Icheon Chicken University, groups will have the opportunity to make their own. The building also contains facilities for meetings and seminars, which visitors can use for gatherings of their choosing.[More information]

 

( Afternoon) Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, Traditional Market

 

 

Impressive Joseon-era (1392-1920) military stronghold and UNESCO World Heritage site Hwaseong Fortress is a living moment to royal filial piety as well as a shining example of the robust architecture of Korea’s last dynasty. Visitors can also enjoy various martial arts performances, before exploring the sights and wares of neighboring Paldalmun Market - almost as old as the fortress itself. Clothing, bags, and jewelry are among the market’s main specialty items. [More information]

 

(Evening) Everland / Dinner (Fireworks)

Celebrating its 40 ^th anniversary in 2016, Everland is Korea’s most popular fun park. Over seven million people visit the park every year, famed for its high-energy rides, live shows, animal displays, and Caribbean Bay water park. Groups can also make good use of Everland’s 1,000-seat concert hall, “Four Seasons Garden”, and an outdoor event space for more than 2,000 persons. Evening visits are especially worthwhile, for the festive nightlife atmosphere and fireworks, making Everland the perfect, high-energy conclusion to a fun day. [More information]

 

 

For more information on how to use the above venues for incentive group activities, email mice@knto.or.kr.

 

☞ Click here to learn more about Gyeonggi-do's MICE industry

☞ Click here to browse other unique experiences available in Gyeonggi-do

Gangneung-Wonju National University to Host PATA Youth Symposium

during PATA Annual Summit 2018

The next PATA Youth Symposium, to be held during the PATA Annual Summit 2018, is to be hosted by Gangneung-Wonju National University. Organised by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Human Capital Development Committee and supported by Korea Tourism Organization (KTO), the Symposium takes place on Thursday, May 17 with the theme of ‘Go Large: Exponential Thinking for Your Career in Tourism’.

 

 

“The PATA Youth Symposium is a cornerstone of our commitment to the next generation of young tourism professional and highlights our continued dedication to enhancing the knowledge and skills of students seeking careers in travel and tourism”, said PATA CEO Dr. Mario Hardy. “We are extremely grateful to Gangneung-Wonju National University for their support and enthusiasm in hosting our Youth Symposium. In doing so, they are helping to enhance the development of tomorrow’s tourism leaders.”

The Youth Symposium takes place on the first day of the PATA Annual Summit 2018 programme taking place in Gangneung, Korea (ROK). The programme was developed with guidance from Dr. Markus Schuckert, Chairman of the PATA Human Capital Development Committee and Assistant Professor at the School of Hotel & Tourism Management, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

Dr Markus Schuckert said, “It’s terrific and an honour to be hosted by Gangneung-Wonju National University. With this PATA Youth Symposium and together with our partners from the Korea Tourism Organization, we are happy to deliver an insightful and mind-opening event, empowering the student participants to plan and execute their successful career in the global tourism industry. Our speakers and industry panelists from the PATA Annual Summit will share their insights with the next generation of tourism industry professionals.Their contributions will be welcomed for what will be a truly interactive event.”

Prof. Sukjong Ham, Chief Professor of Tourism Management Department at Gangneung-Wonju National University added, “It is an honour for Gangneung-Wonju National University to host the PATA Youth Symposium on May 17, 2018. The event will be a good experience for the student participants in helping them to better understand world tourism affairs.”

Confirmed speakers at the Youth Symposium include Abdulla Ghiyas, PATA Face of the Future 2018 and President - Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO); Dr Chih-Chien Chen, Assistant Professor, William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration, University of Nevada, Las Vegas; Eunhye Kim, Student at the University of Seoul and Former Assistant Manager - INTERCOM Convention Services; JC Wong, PATA Young Tourism Professional Ambassador; JuneGi Jimmy Lim, Marketing, Analysis, Advocate and HR Management at UNESCO-ICHCAP; Dr Markus Schuckert; Dr. Mario Hardy; Raya Bidshahri, Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Awecademy; Prof. Sukjong Ham, and Youlrim Moon, Digital and Distribution Manager - Finnair Korea. Yoonjin Ahn and Jihyeon Lee, students from Gangneung-Wonju National University, will be the Master for Ceremonies for the event.

“This year’s programme is especially notable as we are welcoming to the stage four former PATA Intern Associates in Ms Kim, Mr Lim, Mr Moon and Ms Wong, who have made exceptional advances in their careers. I look forward to seeing them again in Gangneung and hearing about their career development since leaving PATA,” added Dr. Hardy.

The symposium includes presentations on ‘Exponential and Innovative Thinking for Generation Z’, and ‘Steps 1 2 3 - On the way to ‘Going Large’ as well as an under 30 panel discussion on ‘Looking Forward: How to Develop Your Career Agenda in Tourism’. The event also features two interactive roundtable discussions on ‘How can you access career opportunities within the tourism industry?’ and ‘How can you prepare yourself for the international tourism industry?’

In recent years the PATA Human Capital Development Committee has organised successful educational events at various institutions including UCSI University Sarawak Campus (April 2010), Institute for Tourism Studies (IFT) (September 2010), Beijing International Studies University (April 2011), Taylor’s University, Kuala Lumpur (April 2012), Lyceum of the Philippines University, Manila (September 2012), Thammasat University, Bangkok (April 2013), Chengdu Polytechnic, Huayuan Campus, China (September 2013), Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai Campus, China, (May 2014), Royal University of Phnom Penh (September 2014), Sichuan Tourism School, Chengdu (April 2015), Christ University, Bangalore (September 2015), University of Guam, USA (May 2016), President University, BSD-Serpong (September 2016), Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism & Hotel Management (May 2017) and Institute for Tourism Studies (IFT) (September 2017).

Source: PATA

Business Insider: Finding the Perfect Korean Souvenir

Even for seasoned travelers, finding the perfect souvenir can be a stressful chore that eats away at their free time in a new destination. Visitors to Korea will be happy to know that there is a widespread variety of both souvenirs and stores, although this can also make it difficult to reach a decision!

 

In general, the top three neighborhoods to go for souvenir shopping are Insa-dong, Myeong-dong, and Namdaemun Market in Seoul. There, shoppers will find plenty of stores with popular souvenirs, such as Korean Wave paraphernalia, wacky Korean socks, cosmetics stores, and more. However, for those looking for something a bit different, below are some tips for souvenir shopping in Korea, organized by type of gifts and shopper.

The VIP

When you need to buy a gift to impress, it can be difficult to find the perfect mix of traditional culture, beauty, quality, and functionality.

For a one-stop solution to finding top-quality souvenirs, the National Souvenir Center in Insa-dong should be the first place to try. The duty-free complex features products by several small- to mid-sized businesses, carefully selected for the quality of their products. Best sellers include accessories with mother-of-pearl lacquer, traditional wooden handicrafts, and ceramics.

If you are buying a gift for an Asian person who is health-conscious, consider a Korean red ginseng product. Korean ginseng is prized for its quality and ability to boost stamina, making it very popular amongst Asian visitors. Most major tourist districts will sell ginseng products in the form of red ginseng extract, tea, or pills; Cheong Kwan Jang Ginseng is a popular store to try.

How to get to the National Souvenir Center:Take Seoul Metropolitan Subway Line 3 to Anguk Station, Exit 6. Go here for detailed directions to – and more information about - the center.

How to get to Cheong Kwan Jang Ginseng: Take Seoul Metropolitan Subway Line 2 to Euljiro 1-ga Station, Exit 6. Walk straight for 350m; the store will be on the left.

 

The Local

Frequent global travelers often already know that the hard-to-find and really local stuff can be found in the supermarkets, which are also particularly handy when buying in bulk or looking for a wide selection of gifts. In terms of what to buy at a Korean supermarket, Korea’s instant ramen noodles are enjoyed throughout the world, and at a supermarket, you will be faced with a whole aisle full of brands and flavors you may have never seen before.

There are also many chips, biscuits, and snacks waiting to be discovered (you may want to try a few for yourself in your hotel room before buying them for your friends!). Other current favorites include tteokbokki(spicy rice cake) chips, banana choco pies and honey butter almonds.

Another prevalent local option for souvenir shopping is a health and beauty store such as Olive Young or Watsons. They can be found in most big cities, and are stocked with a wide selection of Korean cosmetics and grooming products. Top souvenir items to take home are the cheap, but fun and useful face mask sheets.

Available in a variety of scents, including pomegranate, avocado, green tea, shea butter, mung bean, and more, face masks are great for cleaning away grime and make-up, or just to give your face a relaxing, moisturizing treatment.

 

The Last Minute Shopper

OK, so time got the better of you and you didn’t get to shop.  No problem: lucky for you, Incheon International Airport has one of the largest and best airport duty free shopping zones in the world.  Along with a surprising variety of luxury brands, liquor, and key chains, opportunities abound for buying unique Korean souvenirs and products.

 

Traditional Korean crafts, electronics, and Korea-themed souvenirs are readily available. For something edible, Korean wild raspberry Bokbunja wine is sweet, fruity, and easy on the palate. Another common favorite is prepackaged kimchi and also packets of salted and roasted laver (seaweed), which can be enjoyed with rice or alone as a snack. For a more daring choice, you can try one of several different types of flavored chocolate, including those with Jeju tangerines, Korean makgeolli rice wine, or even spicy red chili pepper. Duty-free stores are located throughout Incheon International Airport – go here for an online directory.