29 January 2026
As a direct benefit of our Strategic Partnership with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), we are pleased to share this exclusive international opportunity with our members.
DBT South Korea has approached us to help promote UK leisure marine capability at the Clipper Race Host Port events in Tongyeong, recognising the strength, innovation and global reputation of our member companies. This collaboration ensures our members have early visibility of, and access to, a high-profile platform to engage directly with key Korean industry and government stakeholders.
Invitation for UK Leisure Marine Companies
The British Embassy and the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) in South Korea warmly invite UK leisure marine and yacht-related companies to join us in Tongyeong - newly selected as an official Host Port for the Clipper 2025–26 Round the World Yacht Race. This historic milestone marks the first time the Clipper fleet will call at a Korean port, offering UK businesses an exceptional platform to demonstrate their strengths in a market undergoing rapid transformation.
Why South Korea?
South Korea’s marine leisure sector is expanding at pace, driven by strong government commitment and growing consumer interest. Gyeongnam Province, home to Tongyeong City, now leads the country with 22 marinas and 875 berths, positioning the region as a strategic gateway to Asia‑Pacific yacht tourism and international sailing routes.
Against this backdrop of momentum, UK companies have a unique window to showcase world‑class products, technologies, and services directly to Korea’s most influential yacht industry leaders, marina operators, and government officials.
Core Activities
Throughout the Host Port programme, UK participants will engage in a series of high‑impact activities, including the Marine & Leisure Industry Exhibition at the Tongyeong Yacht Marina (20–22 March), the Marine Leisure Forum & Business Matching session (19 March), and a VIP reception bringing together senior figures from Korea’s maritime community. The British Embassy and DBT South Korea will provide comprehensive marketing support, including the design and installation of the UK Pavilion, a mission directory, and targeted promotion through official social media channels.
- Marine Leisure Forum & Business Matching: 19 March
- VIP Reception: 19 March
- Industry Exhibition: 20–22 March at Tongyeong Yacht Marina
Benefits for UK Companies
To maximise business opportunities, UK companies will benefit from a dedicated exhibition space within the UK Pavilion, pre‑arranged and on‑site B2B meetings, and extensive networking with key Korean stakeholders.
This is an unparalleled opportunity to build new partnerships, explore market entry pathways, and raise visibility in one of Asia’s most promising leisure marine markets.
Travel Support
Participants are responsible for arranging and covering the costs of their own international airfare, accommodation, and local transportation. We kindly request that all companies confirm their participation prior to making any travel arrangements.
For companies traveling from the UK, the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) is pleased to offer complimentary accommodation in Tongyeong for a duration of three nights (19–22 March), as well as round‑trip transportation between Busan Airport and Tongyeong City. This support is limited to one representative per company, for up to two companies.
Register your interest
If you are interested in participating in this trade showcase, please fill out the online form by Friday 6th February: https://forms.office.com/e/N60NdhMdPf
If you have any enquiries, contact: Hyekyung Suh, Maritime Senior Trade Officer, DBT Seoul: Hyekyung.Suh@fcdo.gov.uk
