South Korea's southeastern city of Busan recently hosted the '2024 K-ICT WEEK in BUSAN,' a landmark event in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector. The three-day exhibition, which took place from September 10 to 12 at the BEXCO Exhibition Center 2, brought together industry leaders, innovators, and global experts to showcase the latest advancements in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and quantum information technology.
The event, marking its 10th anniversary, integrated three major exhibitions: 'AI Korea,' 'IT EXPO BUSAN,' and 'CLOUD EXPO KOREA.' This year's edition was particularly significant as it was held in conjunction with the 'Korea Safety Expo (K-SAFETY EXPO),' creating a comprehensive platform that highlighted the intersection of ICT with various industries including safety, manufacturing, education, marine, logistics, medical, and security sectors.
Over 200 companies participated in the event, occupying 489 booths. Notable participants included industry giants such as KT, DOUZONE BIZON, WINS Co., LTD., SLASHBSLASH, and SCHAFFENGOTT. The exhibition floor buzzed with activity as these companies demonstrated their latest products and innovations, offering attendees a glimpse into the future of technology.
Beyond the exhibition, the event featured a rich program of activities designed to foster innovation and collaboration. The Cloud Conference, held on September 10, was a highlight of the event, featuring a keynote speech by Microsoft Korea and panel discussions with AI experts from companies like Kakao Enterprise and DOUZONE BIZON. These sessions provided valuable insights into the latest trends and future prospects in cloud computing and AI.
The event also included business consultations with global buyers, corporate investment consultation meetings (IR Demo Day), a Quantum Information Technology seminar, and a briefing on AI commercialization opportunities by the Korea Electrotechnology Research Institute. Additionally, a BDIA Job Fair booth and an information security hackathon were organized, underlining the event's commitment to nurturing talent and addressing critical issues in the ICT sector.
In a nod to the growing importance of AI in daily life, the organizers provided an 'indoor navigation service' to guide visitors through the exhibition. They also created a virtual exhibition hall using a metaverse platform, allowing for a broader reach and demonstrating the practical applications of emerging technologies.
Busan Mayor Heong-joon Park emphasized the significance of the event, stating, "This event, a global collaboration stage where the advanced technologies of future unicorn companies can be seen at a glance, will be a success, proving that Busan is already prepared for the AI Transformation (AX) of all industries." His words underscored Busan's ambition to position itself as a global hub for technology and innovation.
The success of the 2024 K-ICT WEEK in BUSAN has significant implications for both the ICT industry and the city of Busan. For the industry, it serves as a crucial platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and showcasing innovations that could shape the future of technology. The event's focus on AI Transformation highlights the growing importance of AI across various sectors and its potential to drive economic growth and innovation.
For Busan, the event represents a major step towards establishing itself as a key player in the global technology landscape. By successfully hosting such a comprehensive ICT event and demonstrating its readiness for AI Transformation, Busan is positioning itself as an attractive destination for tech companies and investors. This could lead to increased foreign investment, job creation, and economic growth for the region.
As the world continues to grapple with rapid technological changes, events like the K-ICT WEEK in BUSAN play a crucial role in driving innovation and fostering collaboration. By bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers, such events help shape the future of technology and its impact on society. As Busan continues to build its reputation as a tech hub, it may well become a model for other cities looking to thrive
