AI EXPO KOREA 2026 to Open at COEX This May
Discover AI EXPO KOREA 2026, Asia's largest AI exhibition opening in Seoul this May. Learn about the key term 개막 and tech trends.

EN brief: 아시아 최대 AI 축제 ‘AI EXPO KOREA 2026’ 5월 코엑스서 개막 (culture) + 1 glossary term.
Summary
South Korea is preparing to host one of the region's most significant technology events this spring. AI EXPO KOREA 2026, recognized as the largest artificial intelligence exhibition in Asia, is scheduled to take place this coming May at the COEX convention center in Seoul.
The event aims to showcase the latest advancements in generative AI, machine learning, and robotics. It serves as a massive networking hub for global tech giants, local startups, and research institutions looking to integrate AI into various industries including healthcare, finance, and manufacturing.
Visitors can expect a wide range of exhibits featuring cutting-edge software solutions and hardware innovations. The expo is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical AI research and practical business applications, offering a glimpse into how these technologies will shape the future of daily life.
Organizers anticipate a high turnout of international delegates, reflecting Korea's growing influence in the global AI landscape. The three-day event will include keynote speeches from industry leaders and specialized seminars focusing on the ethical and technical challenges of the AI era.
Full story (translated & rewritten)
The 9th edition of the International Artificial Intelligence Exhibition, commonly known as AI EXPO KOREA, will be held from May 13th to May 15th, 2026, at COEX Halls A and B in Samseong-dong, Seoul. According to the organizers, this year's event is set to be the largest in its history, reflecting the explosive growth of the AI sector over the past year.
The exhibition is organized by the Korea Artificial Intelligence Association and several media partners. It focuses on providing a comprehensive platform where AI companies can demonstrate their "AI-First" strategies. While the specific list of keynote speakers has not been fully disclosed in the initial announcement, the event traditionally attracts C-level executives from major tech firms.
A significant portion of the floor space will be dedicated to 'AI Convergence' zones. These areas will highlight how AI is being applied to traditional sectors like medicine and logistics. For instance, the medical AI section is expected to feature diagnostic tools that use deep learning to identify diseases with higher accuracy than ever before.
In addition to the main exhibition, the 'AI Korea Conference' will run concurrently. This conference will dive deeper into the regulatory environment and the development of sovereign AI capabilities. The article notes that the event is not just for experts; there are programs designed for students and the general public to help them understand the impact of AI on their future careers.
Context
- COEX is South Korea's premier convention and exhibition center located in the Gangnam district, often hosting major international summits and trade shows.
- South Korea has been aggressively investing in AI infrastructure to maintain its competitive edge in the global semiconductor and electronics markets.
- AI EXPO KOREA has grown annually since its inception, mirroring the global shift toward automation and digital transformation.
Quick cheat sheet
Expressions in this post
개막gaemak (gaemak) refers to the opening of an event, such as a festival, exhibition, or sports season. It literally means "lifting the curtain." In news headlines, you will often see it used to announce the start date of major conventions or international games.
이번 엑스포는 5월 13일에 개막합니다.ibeon ekseuponeun 5wol 13ire gaemakhapnida. — This expo opens on May 13th.
올림픽 개막식이 정말 화려했어요.olrimpik gaemaksigi jeongmal hwaryeohaesseoyo. — The Olympic opening ceremony was truly magnificent.
Source
Next Steps
If you are in Seoul this May, visiting COEX for this expo is a great way to see how AI is integrated into Korean society. Keep an eye out for the word 개막gaemak on banners around the city to stay updated on other spring festivals!




