COEX

COEX, short for Coex Convention and Exhibition Center, is a large convention and exhibition complex located in the Gangnam District of Seoul, South Korea. The facility sits in the Samseong-dong area near Bongeunsa Temple and forms the centerpiece of a broader complex that also includes a major shopping mall, a public library, and an aquarium. COEX is operated as a single integrated venue and has become one of Asia’s leading centers for trade shows, conferences, and events.

History and development: The site was developed by Samsung and opened in 1979 as Korea’s first modern convention center. Over the following decades, the complex expanded to include additional exhibition halls, the adjacent shopping mall, and entertainment facilities. The mall and related attractions were progressively developed through the 2000s, with the Starfield Library opening in 2017 as part of the mall’s redevelopment.

Facilities and attractions: The COEX complex houses the COEX Convention Center, which hosts international conferences, exhibitions, and large-scale events. The COEX Mall provides shopping, dining, and entertainment across multiple levels. The Starfield Library, a prominent architectural feature within the mall, is a large public library with towering shelves. The COEX Aquarium, opened around 2000, offers various aquatic displays and is a popular destination for families and visitors.

Connectivity and role: COEX is served by Seoul’s public transit network, with access to nearby subway lines and multiple bus routes. It regularly hosts national and international events and contributes to Seoul’s status as a global business, tourism, and culture hub.