The 2025 Seoul International Sports Leisure Industry Exhibition (SPOEX 2025) is set to take place from March 27 to March 30, 2025, at COEX in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. Co-hosted by the National Sports Promotion Corporation and the Korea International Trade Association, and sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, this event marks a significant milestone as it celebrates its 25th anniversary since its inception in 2001.
This year's exhibition will see approximately 320 sports companies from both domestic and international markets participating, showcasing their latest products and innovative technologies through a total of 1,700 promotional booths. The increase in scale, with 20 more participating companies and 100 additional booths compared to last year, reflects the ongoing growth and evolution of the sports industry.
A highlight of SPOEX 2025 will be the newly established 'K-Pro Sports Special Exhibition Hall,' which will focus on popular sports such as soccer, baseball, and basketball. This area will feature various programs, including lectures and presentations by former and current professional athletes such as Jung Keun-woo, Yoo Hee-kwan, Cho Won-hee, Park In-bee, and Kim Kyung-tae. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to engage with these athletes through one-on-one lectures and skill-building sessions.
In addition, the exhibition will introduce the 'Sports Technology (SPO-TECH) Special Exhibition Hall,' which has been created in collaboration with 14 innovative Korean companies recognized at the CES Exhibition in Las Vegas. This area will allow attendees to experience cutting-edge sports technology and products directly, showcasing the intersection of sports and advanced technology.
SPOEX 2025 aims to facilitate international business opportunities by hosting an export consultation event. Approximately 30 overseas buyers will be invited to meet with around 120 domestic sports companies, fostering connections and potential partnerships. Furthermore, an investment matching consultation will be organized, where 15 investment companies will connect with about 40 domestic sports firms to promote investment in the sports industry.
This year, the timing of the event has shifted from February to March, enhancing collaboration between industry, academia, and research sectors. Additionally, a Sports Industry Job Fair will be held to support employment opportunities in the sports field, featuring participation from 40 companies and organizations. This initiative aims to create connections between companies and young talents seeking careers in sports.
Chang Mi-ran, the Second Vice Minister of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, expressed optimism for the event, stating, "Through the 2025 SPOEX, I hope our sports companies can actively enter the global market and that our excellent technology and innovative products gain wider recognition." She added that the Ministry will continue to expand its policies to support exports and strengthen global competitiveness in the sports industry.
Ha Hyung-joo, Chairman of the National Sports Promotion Corporation, emphasized the importance of SPOEX, stating, "SPOEX is a venue where the sports industry ecosystem can be met in one place and is an important window to promote the competitiveness of domestic sports companies to the world." He further noted that the organization, in collaboration with the Ministry, aims to expand support to usher in an era where the sports industry in Korea reaches a value of 100 trillion won by 2028.
For those interested in attending, registration is available online or on-site. The event is open to anyone wishing to explore the latest trends and technologies in the sports industry, making it an accessible opportunity for all.
As the sports industry continues to evolve, SPOEX 2025 stands as a testament to the growth and innovation within the sector, promising an engaging and informative experience for all attendees.
