Korea International Exhibition Center: South Korea's Premier MICE Venue
Located in Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, the Korea International Exhibition Center—widely known as KINTEX—stands as the largest MICE venue in South Korea. MICE is an industry acronym referring to Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions. Situated approximately 23 kilometers from Seoul, this massive complex serves as a vital hub for international trade, cultural entertainment, and large-scale professional gatherings.
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Overview and Scale
KINTEX occupies a sprawling 224,800 m² plot of land positioned between the Han River and Ilsan's central road, Chungangno. The facility is a three-storey structure that boasts a total indoor exhibition area of 108,049 m². Notably, it is the only exhibition center in South Korea to exceed an indoor area of 100,000 m², making it a unique destination for massive global events.
Facility Breakdown
The center is divided into two primary exhibition halls, each offering significant space for organizers:
- First Exhibition Center: Features an indoor area of 53,541 m² and an outdoor area of 2,849 m².
- Second Exhibition Center: Features an indoor area of 54,508 m² and a much larger outdoor area of 68,000 m².
Beyond the exhibition halls, the complex is equipped with a 6,000-seat event hall, a grand ballroom, and 26 specialized meeting rooms to accommodate diverse professional needs.
Key Facts
- Location: 217-60, Kintex-ro, Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea.
- Total Indoor Area: 108,049 m² (the largest in South Korea).
- Ownership: Managed by KINTEX Inc.
- Primary Function: Major venue for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions).
- Major Event Types: Trade fairs, international conventions, sports championships, and K-pop concerts.
A History of Growth
The journey of KINTEX began in April 1999 when Goyang city was confirmed to attract the construction of an international exhibition center. By February 2002, the project was officially titled the Goyang International Exhibition Center, which later became KINTEX. The first center celebrated its grand opening in April 2005.
Following the success of the first phase, feasibility studies for a second center were conducted in 2006. Construction for the second exhibition center officially commenced in July 2009 after the Hyundai Engineering and Construction Consortium was appointed to the project.
Notable Events and Cultural Impact
KINTEX has a diverse history of hosting high-profile events ranging from industrial trade shows to global sporting competitions and massive entertainment spectacles.
Trade and Professional Events
As a primary venue for KOTRA-organized regional trade fairs, KINTEX is a cornerstone of South Korean commerce. It has hosted the biennial Seoul Motor Show and serves as a venue for the Goyang International Flower Festival. Additionally, the center is used for critical professional milestones, including civil service and company entrance examinations.
Sports and Entertainment
The venue's versatility is evident in its ability to host world-class sports, such as the 2009 World Weightlifting Championships and the 2010 All That Skate figure skating show. In the realm of entertainment, KINTEX has been the stage for:
- Music Awards: The Golden Disc Awards, Mnet 20's Choice Awards, and the tvN10 Awards.
- K-Pop and Global Tours: Concerts by artists including SM Town (EXO, Girls' Generation, etc.), Shinhwa, Sechs Kies, and international stars like Sarah Brightman and Doja Cat.
- Specialized Festivals: The Anime X Game Festival (AGF 2026) and the K-Pet Fair.
Summary of KINTEX Specifications
| Category | Details / Measurements |
|---|---|
| Total Indoor Exhibition Area | 108,049 m² |
| First Center Indoor Area | 53,541 m² |
| Second Center Indoor Area | 54,508 m² |
| Second Center Outdoor Area | 68,000 m² |
| Event Hall Capacity | 6,000 seats |
| Meeting Rooms | 26 rooms |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is KINTEX located?
KINTEX is located at 217-60, Kintex-ro, Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, approximately 23 kilometers from Seoul.
What makes KINTEX unique compared to other Korean exhibition centers?
KINTEX is the only exhibition center in South Korea with a total indoor exhibition area exceeding 100,000 m².
What kind of events are held at KINTEX?
The venue hosts a wide variety of events, including international trade fairs, MICE industry conferences, sporting championships, academic debates (such as Harvard WorldMUN), and major entertainment concerts and award shows.
Is there outdoor space available at the venue?
Yes, KINTEX features significant outdoor exhibition areas, particularly in the second exhibition center, which provides 68,000 m² of outdoor space.
How many exhibition centers are there at KINTEX?
The complex comprises two distinct exhibition centers, providing a combined massive footprint for large-scale international events.