Korea Safety Expo 2024 Showcases Advanced Disaster Safety Technologies

The 2024 Korea Safety Expo (K-SAFETY EXPO 2024) opened its doors on September 10 at BEXCO in Busan, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of disaster safety management and technology. Organized by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety of Korea and Busan Metropolitan City, the three-day event brought together industry leaders, government officials, and international delegates to explore the future of scientific disaster safety management.

This year's expo, celebrating its 10th anniversary, took a notable step towards becoming a global comprehensive disaster safety exhibition. The event showcased a wide array of ICT-based advanced products and technologies, reflecting the evolving landscape of disaster management in the face of climate change and rapid industrial advancements. Exhibitors presented innovative solutions utilizing artificial intelligence, big data, and robotics, including drone technology, to address increasingly complex safety challenges.

The expo's international profile was significantly elevated this year, with the largest-ever overseas delegation in attendance. Representatives from Brunei and Mongolia, officials from the World Bank and Asian Development Bank, over 100 international buyers, and diplomatic envoys to South Korea participated, underscoring the global relevance of disaster safety innovations.

A key highlight of the expo was the ICT/Climate Disaster Special Zone, where seven companies and organizations displayed advanced technologies. Notable exhibits included K-Water's Digital Twin Water Management Platform, Cudo Communication's wildfire detection and response solution, and the Korea Aerospace Research Institute's stratospheric disaster surveillance drone. These innovations demonstrate the potential for technology to revolutionize disaster prevention and response strategies.

The event also facilitated crucial business connections through various consultation meetings. The Disaster Safety Business Consultation Meeting connected 116 purchasing companies from 18 countries with over 180 expo exhibitors, promoting the global expansion of Korean disaster safety technologies. Additionally, a Major Corporations and Public Institutions Purchasing Consultation Meeting provided a platform for 58 participating companies to engage with 38 major Korean corporations and public institutions.

Complementing the exhibition, the K-Safety Conference 2024 featured the inaugural Global Disaster Safety Business Forum, an ODA Forum, and an International Disaster Cooperation Seminar. These events fostered knowledge exchange and collaboration on an international scale, addressing global challenges in disaster management.

The expo also emphasized public engagement and education, with interactive programs like the Children's Safety AI Competition and safety education initiatives. These efforts highlight the importance of raising safety awareness across all age groups and leveraging technology for educational purposes.

Minister Sang-min Lee emphasized the critical role of scientific disaster management and advanced safety industries in protecting public safety. The expo's focus on cutting-edge technologies and international collaboration reflects a growing recognition of the need for global cooperation in addressing disaster risks.

As climate change continues to exacerbate natural disasters and technological advancements create new safety challenges, events like the Korea Safety Expo play a crucial role in showcasing innovative solutions and fostering international cooperation. The expo's evolution into a global platform for disaster safety technology exchange marks a significant step towards more resilient and prepared communities worldwide.