BUSAN, April 30, 2024 – The vibrant city of Busan is set to host two coffee industry events: the 2024 World of Coffee and the World Barista Championship. These events, jointly organized by the city and the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), will take place at BEXCO from May 1 to May 4, 2024.
For the first time in Asia, the World of Coffee will showcase the largest coffee industry and service exhibition. Featuring participants from 70 countries, the event will host 250 companies presenting their latest coffee-related products, technologies, and services. This exhibition not only places Busan at the forefront of the global coffee conversation but also highlights the city’s evolving coffee culture and industry capabilities.
Alongside the exhibition, the World Barista Championship will return to Korea after a seven-year hiatus. This championship is a highly regarded platform where baristas from 60 countries compete to win the coveted title. Previously won by notable figures like Paul Bassett and James Hoffman, the championship is a stepping stone for coffee professionals aiming to achieve global recognition.
The events are complemented by a variety of programs designed to engage and educate attendees. These include the Busan Promotion Pavilion, Roaster Village, and Coffee Lectures, providing insights into the coffee trade and opportunities for business networking. Additionally, attendees can participate in the Coffee Exchange and Barista Party, which offer hands-on experiences and further professional interaction.
The significance of hosting these events in Busan is profound. The city already channels more than 90% of Korea’s coffee imports through its ports and has produced three World Coffee Champions. By hosting these global events, Busan reaffirms its status as a leading coffee hub in Asia and strengthens its global cultural and economic ties.
The opening ceremony, scheduled for May 1, will be attended by Mayor Park Heong-joon and other key stakeholders. Mayor Park commented on the occasion, “Hosting these world-class exhibitions and championships in Busan, Korea’s first coffee-consuming city, signifies our passionate embrace and promotion of coffee culture on a global scale.”
As Busan prepares to welcome coffee enthusiasts and industry professionals from around the world, the city is set to brew a perfect blend of culture, innovation, and business, promising significant outcomes for all participants. This event is not only a celebration of coffee but also an affirmation of Busan’s growing influence in the global coffee industry.
For more information, visit the event’s official website.
