The EU Business Hub is set to host the inaugural Digital Solutions Korea 2024 exhibition, an event aimed at connecting European small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups with Korean companies. The exhibition will take place over three days — Dec. 3, 5 and 6 in Seoul.

Digital Solutions Korea 2024 exhibition poster / Courtesy of EU Delegation office in Seoul

This event will feature selected European SMEs and startups renowned for their technological capabilities and track records in international business cooperation. They will showcase a range of innovative digital solutions, leveraging advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, cybersecurity, digital health, extended reality, the internet of things, online media platforms, robotics, semiconductors, telecommunications and various other software solutions.

Over the course of the three days, the EU Business Hub will facilitate business-to-business matchmaking. European companies will engage in business talks with interested Korean firms, offering opportunities for one-on-one meetings to explore diverse business prospects, including technology partnerships, licensing, and joint research and development. To ensure smooth communication, interpretation services will be available throughout the exhibition.

In addition to the exhibition, a business networking reception hosted by the EU Delegation to the Republic of Korea will take place on Dec. 3 at the exhibition venue. This reception will provide a more informal setting for attendees to enhance their networking connections with European SMEs and startups.

The EU Business Hub-Korea program will participate in Softwave 2024, taking place from December 4 to 6 at COEX in Seoul. The program aims to raise its profile and promote its business mission. On Dec. 4, participating EU SMEs and startups will visit Softwave 2024, offering one-on-one, on-site matchmaking opportunities with exhibitors.

"Korea's ICT industry, which accounts for 30-40 percent of total exports, is experiencing strong growth driven by the rapid spread of cloud services and supported by semiconductors exports. Having earned a reputation as a global ICT powerhouse, Korea is steadily investing in innovative technologies such as advanced semiconductors, next-generation networks, AI, big data, quantum computing, and cybersecurity. Many companies may seek global partnerships," Tanith Bello, program officer at the EU Delegation to the Republic of Korea, said. "I hope that Digital Solutions Korea 2024 serves as a valuable platform for relevant Korean businesses and organizations to connect with European SMEs and startups showcasing their cutting-edge digital solutions and technologies, allowing them to seize opportunities for business partnerships."