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Enriching incentives, unique culture and futuristic facilities – it’s no wonder South Korea tops the charts for meetings and events
Sthe limelight right now – and not only for its pop music. A mighty meetings and event destination, South Korea has been ranked among the top most popular international meetings destinations by the Union of International Associations (UIA) for the past four years, for the number of meetings hosted annually. A shorter flight time from the UK than West Coast US, Seoul’s Incheon International airport is connected to 186 destinations by more than 90 airlines. Offering visa-free travel to 112 nationalities, South Korea’s accessibility is a huge plus for international conference planners.
What’s more, South Korea’s popularity as an incentive destination is rising rapidly. With its inspiring cultural heritage and a spectacular landscape – shifting from spring blossom to snowy winters – delegates will leave feeling inspired by an experience-rich itinerary. The vibrant capital of Seoul itself is overflowing with enticing options for exploring South Korea’s past and present
– through its fashion, food markets, music, cookery classes and fine-dining in heritage buildings. Seoul’s cutting-edge hotels also make event planning seamless. From the contemporary spaces at the new Andaz Seoul Gangnam, to the sky-high conference facilities at Signiel Seoul hotel (housed in the Lotte World Tower, Seoul’s tallest skyscraper), the capital’s choice of world-class accommodation continues to grow.
For a multi-city itinerary, consider pairing the cosmopolitan pace of Seoul with the serenity of the temple-filled city of Gyeongju, where delegates can enjoy the beauty of Gyerim forest before taking tea with Buddhist monks. Or, factor in time for Jeonju, the foodie capital of South Korea, where travellers can sample artisan soju – the best-selling liquor in the world – and discover why the city was named 2012 UNESCO City of Gastronomy. For rest and relaxation, the resort island of Jeju offers stretches of beaches, and luxury accommodation, where guests can unwind in a world-class spa.