Those preparing to start a shared accommodation business will have a chance to gather essential information on everything from property listings to interior design, cleaning, laundry, and tax matters at a dedicated event. This marks the first specialized expo for shared accommodation in South Korea, featuring companies and experts who will introduce products, services, and practical know-how necessary for operating accommodations.
The Korea Guesthouse Association announced on the 18th that the 'K-Stay Expo 2026' will take place on October 9-10 at the Art Hall 2 of the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) in Seoul, with support from Airbnb.
Over 40 companies and organizations related to the shared accommodation business will participate in the event. The sectors represented will include interior design, appliances and furniture, cleaning and laundry, hygiene and safety, tax, and fire safety.
Prospective entrepreneurs and current operators will have the opportunity to compare products and services from various vendors on-site and receive expert consultations. Items such as interior decor, mattresses, and coffee machines suitable for accommodations will also be showcased. Some companies plan to offer on-site promotions, including discounts during the expo.
There will also be lectures sharing operational experiences and know-how. Current shared accommodation operators and field experts will serve as speakers, providing practical information on property selection, customer attraction, and cost management.
Specifically, topics will include how to find competitive accommodation listings, space presentation, marketing strategies, and tax-saving methods for the hospitality industry. Changes in policies related to shared accommodation and market outlook will also be key subjects of discussion.
As the number of inbound tourists continues to rise, the demand for accommodations among foreign visitors is diversifying. Projections indicate that the number of foreign tourists visiting South Korea will exceed 20 million this year, with travelers increasingly interested in experiencing local culture and daily life through shared accommodations.
Chae Bo-young, president of the Korea Guesthouse Association, stated, “As we approach an era of 30 million inbound tourists, the role of shared accommodation in meeting diverse lodging demands is becoming increasingly important. I hope this expo provides operators and prospective entrepreneurs with the necessary information and know-how, supporting the healthy growth of the domestic shared accommodation industry.”
Seo Ga-yeon, country manager of Airbnb Korea, remarked, “This event, which brings together key players in the domestic shared accommodation ecosystem, will serve as a significant platform showcasing the scale of the shared accommodation industry. We hope it aids prospective entrepreneurs in entering the market smoothly and helps existing operators run their accommodations successfully, especially with large international events like the World Youth Day approaching next year.”
Admission to the expo is free, and pre-registered attendees will receive priority entry and exclusive merchandise benefits.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.