The International Federation of Exhibition and Event Services (IFES) and the Association of Korean Exhibition Industry (AKEI) have formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a significant step in promoting collaboration and elevating professional standards across the global exhibitions sector.
Under this new partnership, IFES and AKEI commit to working jointly to share best practices, raise industry standards, and create robust connections among exhibition professionals – particularly bridging Korea’s dynamic exhibition landscape with IFES’s diverse global network.
Commenting on the agreement, IFES President Jörg Zeißig noted that “Korea’s exhibition landscape is evolving at pace.” This collaboration reflects IFES’s belief that global industry growth depends on regional strength, knowledge exchange, and fostering new opportunities for collaboration across borders. Through this alliance, Korean enterprises gain access to IFES’s international membership – potentially unlocking new markets and partnerships.
From the Korean side, AKEI President Sohn Soo-Deuk emphasized that Korea’s exhibition industry plays a vital role in driving exports, supporting adjacent sectors, and generating employment. With this MoU, AKEI aims to strengthen industry infrastructure, open new business avenues for SMEs, and enhance Korea’s global recognition within the exhibition community.
Over recent years, AKEI has played a pivotal role in transforming Korea’s exhibition sector – securing formal industry recognition, launching certification programmes, and pushing for digital transformation and international expansion. These efforts have created a solid foundation for deeper engagement with IFES’s worldwide membership.
Under the MoU, the two organisations will collaborate on professional development programmes, share market intelligence and best practices, and facilitate Korean service providers and exhibition organisers in reaching international opportunities. Meanwhile, IFES members will benefit from AKEI’s local market knowledge, expertise, and access to Korea’s rapidly evolving exhibition ecosystem.
This agreement represents more than just a formal partnership – it signals a strategic move towards greater global integration of the exhibition industry. For Korea, it opens pathways for heightened international visibility. For the global community, it offers fresh access to Korea’s vibrant exhibition market, fostering cross-border collaboration, innovation, and growth.
As both organisations begin working together, the broader global exhibitions landscape can anticipate increased cross‑regional cooperation, expanded business opportunities, and a strengthened network of professionals – laying the groundwork for a more connected, resilient, and future‑focused industry.
