Seoul City Supports Online Transition of 'MICE Industry' Hit Hard by COVID-19

Existing Offline-Centered Events → 120% Increase in Support Funds for Simultaneous Online and Offline Events
Up to 100 Million KRW Support for 32 Exhibitions Based on Growth Potential and Innovation

[Asia Economy Reporter Jo In-kyung] The Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Seoul Tourism Foundation announced on the 19th the 'Seoul-type Innovative MICE Support Measures' to fully support the online transition of related events to help the MICE industry, which has been hit unprecedentedly by the COVID-19 pandemic, recover. Rather than one-time support, this plan aims to implement more fundamental support measures that change the structure of the MICE industry to enable a rapid recovery from the COVID-19 impact and to enhance global competitiveness in line with the new normal era.

First, online events with 50 or more foreign participants, similar to existing offline MICE events, will be eligible for cost support from the Seoul Metropolitan Government. Online events can receive support at 80% of the offline event support level, which averages 20 million KRW and up to 200 million KRW, while hybrid events held both online and offline can receive up to 120% of the existing support amount.

In the case of exhibitions, where booth installation, product display, and buyer consultations typically take place on-site, support of up to 80% of the existing subsidy is available if the event is held online. About 30 international conferences, including the '2020 International Medical Beauty Conference' in November and the '2020 Korean Dermatological Association International Academic Conference' in December, are scheduled to be held in online or hybrid formats.

The city will also provide comprehensive support including consulting, quarantine, and manpower along with subsidies ranging from 10 million to 100 million KRW to a total of 32 exhibitions (planned) selected through public contests at different growth stages: 'Pilot MICE (Stage 1)', 'Next-generation Promising (Stage 2)', 'Internationalization (Stage 3)', and 'Global (Stage 4)'.

For upcoming offline events, measures have been prepared to provide customized support for venues, participants, and organizers to ensure the safety of attendees and event sites.

At event venues, thorough disinfection will be ensured by supporting space sterilization, quarantine gates, thermal imaging cameras, masks, and hand sanitizers. The 'Seoul MICE Event Infectious Disease Response Safety Operation Guide' will be produced and distributed through local governments to prevent infectious diseases and respond to crisis situations. For foreigners participating in MICE events, support will be provided for insurance subscription fees and the 'Seoul MICE Safety Care,' which consists of a 24-hour concierge service, will be offered for the first time.

Joo Yong-tae, Director of the Seoul Tourism and Sports Bureau, said, "In the global downturn of the MICE industry, Seoul has reorganized its support system so that private companies in Seoul can proactively lead changes in the MICE industry ecosystem and gain global competitiveness." He added, "We will enhance Seoul's image as the optimal MICE city where participants can attend with peace of mind and lead the global MICE market that will recover after the end of COVID-19."