Busan, South Korea – The city of Busan is set to host the 32nd edition of Passion & Fashion Busan (PFB), an international exhibition spotlighting the shoe, textile, and fashion industries. Running from October 31 to November 2 at BEXCO’s first exhibition hall, this event brings together 363 companies across 389 booths and expects to welcome over 16,000 attendees. The exhibition will feature a range of activities and business opportunities aimed at both the public and professionals, under the theme of “Expanding Motivation through Convergence.”
A key feature of this year’s PFB is its focus on the convergence of fashion with technology and sustainability. Digital innovations, such as the AI-driven Metafashion Playground and advanced AI manufacturing platforms, are expected to draw attention from both industry insiders and tech enthusiasts. Among the companies leading these initiatives are Treksta, known for its “hands-free” line of shoes, and Shuolz, the first footwear company in Korea to receive medical device certification from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
The exhibition also places emphasis on sustainability, with several companies showcasing eco-friendly materials and solutions. For instance, local firm Jecklin will present its resource-recycling textile materials, while other exhibitors will demonstrate smart fashion concepts integrating digital and environmentally conscious designs.
The event’s Global Business Fair will facilitate meetings between 240 international buyers and domestic companies. Notable buyers include representatives from Nike Vietnam, Li Ning, and American Eagle Outfitters. This B2B-focused segment aims to foster new business relationships and support the exchange of ideas across markets.
For participating companies, the fair presents an opportunity to connect with major global brands, potentially leading to long-term collaborations and market expansion. Local businesses are also poised to benefit, particularly those looking to enhance their presence in both domestic and international markets.
In addition to business and innovation, Passion & Fashion Busan integrates cultural elements aimed at the general public. The event will feature street fashion shows, pop-up shops, and collaborative projects with local lifestyle brands. A notable attraction is the Fashion & Coffee fusion event, where well-known Busan-based coffee brands, such as Momo’s Coffee and Blackup Coffee, will collaborate with street fashion brands. This unique combination of fashion and lifestyle highlights Busan’s growing influence in both industries.
The exhibition also offers interactive experiences for visitors, including hands-on workshops like mini shoe-making, personal color consultations, and fragrance creation. These attractions are designed to engage a broader audience, from fashion enthusiasts to casual visitors.
Industry experts and fashion professionals will have the opportunity to attend a series of seminars and talks during the event. The Industry Trend Seminars will explore key topics such as the global reach of K-style fashion, branding strategies, and the intersection of fashion with digital transformation. The seminars will provide valuable insights into current market trends and future directions for both domestic and international companies.
Additionally, special exhibitions will highlight trends in health-focused footwear and smart fashion technologies, reflecting broader industry movements toward incorporating technological advancements and consumer well-being into fashion design.
