Introduction
International Exchange Complex District in Seoul - Created by citizens, visited by the world
A historic site that introduced Seoul, Korea to the world through the '86 Asian Games and '88 Seoul Olympics. Seoul Metropolitan Government has designated the 1.99 million㎡ area connecting COEX to Seoul Sports Complex as the International Exchange Complex District, developing it as a space securing Seoul's future competitiveness
Taking advantage of large-scale available land from public institution relocations, the city is promoting planned development centered on the MICE industry including international business, exhibitions, and conventions by fully utilizing the area's potential.
Focusing on the MICE Industry
The MICE industry is a high value-added future growth industry with excellent economic ripple effects and job creation potential. It is expected to be an alternative to the youth unemployment problem as it has significant ripple effects on related industries such as transportation, accommodation, and performance, where youth employment is essential. Furthermore, the MICE industry is a platform industry mediating knowledge creation, development, sharing, diffusion, and convergence, where information related to new products, technologies, and trade business is exchanged and trade transactions are promoted. Along with this, various international events and event hosting lead to enhanced urban image, serving as a role in driving growth as an international city.
Potential of the COEX-Seoul Sports Complex Area
The COEX-Seoul Sports Complex area is an optimal location equipped with all infrastructure and cultural-historical resources that can be called the three elements of MICE, from exhibition/convention facilities to Seoul Sports Complex of '88 Olympics, Han River, Tancheon, and Bongeunsa Temple.
However, COEX's exhibition/convention facilities, the core facilities of the MICE industry, have reached saturation, and Seoul Sports Complex has decreased usage due to aging with excessive maintenance costs, resulting in reduced operational efficiency in terms of facility management.
Therefore, Seoul plans to transform the International Exchange Complex District into a 'competitive MICE complex' integrating international business, exhibitions/conventions, sports, and culture/entertainment
Dreaming of a Sustainable Eco-friendly City
The development method of the International Exchange Complex District aims for a sustainable model centered on eco-friendly pedestrian and public transportation. The Han River and Tancheon area surrounding the MICE facilities will restore the precious natural features of the Han River and will be created as ecological, rest, and leisure spaces for citizens.
The creation of the International Exchange Complex District, which will become Seoul's gateway to the world and pride of Seoul citizens, is Seoul's new dream aiming for a sustainable environmentally friendly city.