Busan Hosts 2024 International Medical Tourism Convention

Busan, South Korea - Busan is setting the stage for global recognition in the wellness and medical tourism industry with the 2024 Busan International Medical Tourism Convention, held at BEXCO from November 8 to November 9. This international convention, now in its 16th year, will welcome leaders and innovators from 18 countries, providing a platform to showcase Busan’s commitment to becoming a premier destination for wellness and medical services.

The convention, jointly organized by the city of Busan and the Busan Ilbo newspaper, and led by the Busan Medical Industry Council, underscores Busan’s ambition to attract international patients by showcasing the city’s state-of-the-art healthcare facilities and wellness resources. According to city officials, the event aims to solidify Busan’s position as a “global wellness and medical tourism city,” with a focus on drawing interest from international buyers and medical tourists alike.

Over 80 organizations from across 18 countries will be represented, filling more than 200 exhibition booths with the latest advancements in medical technology, health services, and wellness solutions. Exhibitors range from Busan’s prominent university hospitals to specialized clinics and wellness companies, offering participants a comprehensive view of the region’s healthcare capabilities.

The convention features four specialized exhibition zones: the Medical Institutions Zone, Medical Industry Zone, Medical Tourism Industry Zone, and Wellness Zone. Each zone is designed to spotlight different facets of Busan’s medical and wellness expertise, providing insights into the city’s holistic approach to health tourism.

The event also includes an International Symposium on “Sustainable Medical & Wellness Tourism,” which will gather thought leaders to discuss the future of healthcare tourism. Another notable program is the “Cosmedibeauty Seminar,” focusing on the intersection of K-Beauty and medical wellness, reflecting South Korea’s unique role in global beauty and health trends.

An additional highlight is the business matching sessions, where international buyers from countries like China, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, and, for the first time, Indonesia, will meet with local healthcare providers. Facilitated by a pre-arranged matching system, these consultations are designed to foster practical partnerships and expand Busan’s influence in the global medical tourism market.

This year’s convention offers special opportunities for local residents through the 2024 Citizen Health Expo, running concurrently with the main event. Designed to engage and educate the community, the health expo includes hands-on CPR training for children and public health lectures from top medical professionals. These initiatives underscore Busan’s commitment to fostering a health-conscious community while promoting its medical tourism offerings.