15th INC & 28th EAFONS 2025

ABOUT KOREA

South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea (ROK), is a dynamic nation located in East Asia. South Korea, known for its vibrant culture, technological prowess, and natural beauty, attracts approximately ten million of international travelers each year. From bustling metropolises like Seoul, adorned with futuristic skyscrapers and historic palaces such as Gyeongbokgung, to serene natural landscapes like Jeju Island and serene temples nestled amidst scenic mountains, Korea offers something for every traveler and presents a captivating backdrop for any international event. The country's rich culinary scene, highlighted by spicy kimchi and savory barbecue, adds to its allure. With a robust infrastructure and warm hospitality, Korea continues to be a top destination in East Asia.

Geographical Location

The Korean peninsula, roughly 1,030 km long and 175 km at its narrowest point, has a total land area of 100,033 km2 and is located in Northeast Asia. With Seoul as its capital city, Korea is neigh-bored by Japan to the east, China to the west and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea) across the northern border.

Culture

‘Hangeul’, Korean Alphabet

Hangeul, one of the most unique creations of Korea, based on Hunminjeongeum (The Proper Sounds for the Instruction of the People) it was introduced in 1443 by King Sejong, the 4th king of the Joseon dynasty. Hangeul features highly scientific letter-forming principles, and is capable of expressing the largest scope of sounds among the writing systems currently in existence. Hangeul (Hunminjeongeum) is the only writing system inscribed on the UNESCO Memory of the World List.

‘Hanbok’, Korean Traditional Clothes

Hanbok is the traditional attire of the Korean people. Worn daily up until just 100 years ago, hanbok comes in various shapes and colors, reflecting the culture and lifestyle of the its time. Nowadays, it is only worn on special occasions or anniversaries. The core of hanbok is its graceful shape and vibrant colors, which have had a major impact on the modern fashion industry.

‘Hansik’, Korean Traditional Food

Hansik refers to traditional Korean food. Korea’s natural environment features mountains, plains, and seas in equal measure, contributing to the country’s diverse and unique culinary cultures. Centered on the main dish (rice or noodles), served alongside a variety of side dishes (called banchan) and a bowl of soup. Most dishes are a balanced mix of animal and vegetable products; either boiled or steamed in brine or water rather than fried in oil, making hansik very healthy. Hansik's most outstanding feature is the fermented foods. The most well-known are kimchi (fermented cabbage).

‘Hallyu’, Korean Pop Culture

Korea has been risen not only in the field of technology and engineering, but also in the field of culture. Hallyu, which refers to the increase in popularity of Korean culture, has been expanded nationwide. Ranging in genres from K-pop to the larger Hallyu entertainment business and culture, Korea’s cultural influence has been increasing to Asia and to the world.

The Sense of Sight: Seoul Designs

Seoul is a city on the move, constantly revitalizing itself, balancing ultra-modern renewal with careful restoration of its ancient buildings and preservation of the environment.

UNESCO appointed Seoul as a UNESCO City of Design on July 20, 2010. UNESCO, recognizing and appreciating Seoul’s abundant cultural heritage and creative potential, designated Seoul as a creative city of design. The city of Seoul has plans to develop even further through various design policies, and it hopes to contribute to the advancement of developing countries through its activities as a member of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.

Seoul is a city making public design news. Seoul was designated as the World Design Capital (WDC) 2010, a competition to promote and encourage the use of design to further the social, economic and cultural development of the world cities.

To complement this effort, starting in 2008, the city created the Seoul Design Olympiad, a yearly festival to emphasize the importance of design.

The Sense of Taste: Seoul Dines

Whether it’s first-class royal cuisine at elegant restaurants or adventurous fare found at street stalls, Seoul delights both gourmets and those with a curious appetite. No less lively are the red pepper-laced soups, laden with Kimchi, Korea’s world-famous fermented cabbage. Seoul also offers gastronomes, a variety of international cuisines that make the city a global Mecca for travelers.

Visitors to Seoul often name Korean cuisines as one of the memorable highlights of their trip. Everyone has their own favorite dish such as Kimchi, Galbi (marinated ribs) or Bibimbap (rice topped with sautéed vegetables and Gochujang).

Bibimbap

A bowl of steamed rice mixed with various vegetables, Gochujang (Korean hot pepper paste) and sesame oil. Because of the perfect harmony between various tastes and nutrition, it is a popular favorite among women as a diet food.

Traditional Korean Set Meal

A full-course Korean meal with an array of savory side dishes which include Kimchi, Bulgogi, Doenjang Jjigae (soybean paste stew) and Jeotgal (salted fish).

Kimchi

Kimchi is one of the most popular foods in Korea, and also exported worldwide. Despite its spicy flavor with hot pepper and garlic, it is popular among many foreigners.

Bulgogi

Sliced beef that has been marinated in sweet soy sauce and grilled.
Due to its tender and juicy taste, Bulgogi is one of Korea’s most popular dishes and has many fans.

The Sense of Hearing: Seoul Serves

When Seoul does business, the customer is king. Whether at a traditional market, department store, beauty salon or local convenience store, you will unfailingly encounter courteous staff.

One of the most fascinating attractions in Seoul is 24-hour shopping. Huge fashion clusters such as the Dongdaemun Market and Namdaemun Market, as well as shops along youth streets (ex. Hongik Univ. Street, Sinchon, etc.), cafes and bars are open 24 hours a day.

The Sense of Touch: Seoul Hosts & Connects

As a convention destination, Seoul offers a top quality, competitively priced experience. Seoul has 14 convention facilities with a capacity of over 1,000, ranked in the top 10 as a world convention destination, and has 155 professional convention organizers in operation.

Seoul offers warm hospitality to make visitors feel welcome and comfortable. Seoul promises to provide not only the kindness of its citizens, but also the best services and support for the successful hosting of events from start to finish. This is sure to leave a touching memory to event organizers and participants alike.

Seoul is also a global leader in cutting-edge technology. Seoul is ranked as the world’s “leading digital city” and a “tech capital of the world”. Seoul was ranked first place in the 100 Cities Survey by the government for the highest percentage of security, usability, content, service and citizen participation for the past three consecutive years.

The Sense of Smell: Seoul Breathes

The mountains surrounding Seoul are breathtaking and the Han River flowing through the center of the city offers a scenic recreational view.

Seoul is graced by the Han River that flows through the center of the city and the majestic Mt. Nam that overlooks the whole city. These are just two of the landmarks that represent the city’s abundant natural environment. Seoul is focusing on city parks, large and small in its drive to make the entire city green-friendly