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Thuringia meets Korea:
Corporate trip to the optoelectronics cluster
Applications include those in the fields of security and aerospace
September 14th to 18th, 2026
As part of the "Internationalization of Regions in Structural Change (ISW)" program, Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI), in cooperation with LEG Thüringen is conducting a cluster marketing trip to South Korea for companies from the optoelectronics cluster in Thuringia. The trip is being organized by enviacon international with support from Source of Asia. The target group is companies that want to market dual-use products for defense and space applications in the South Korean market.
What can you expect on the business trip?
South Korea is among the most innovative and dynamic markets worldwide – particularly in the areas of defense, aerospace, and cybersecurity. Increasing defense budgets and new security policy requirements are creating significant market opportunities – especially for suppliers of optics/photonics, sensors, specialty materials, microelectronics, and precision engineering.
The trip offers direct access to relevant industrial companies, government procurement agencies, and research institutions. The program includes tailored B2B meetings, company visits, and networking opportunities – with the clear goal of establishing Contact , business opportunities, and sustainable collaborations.
Itinerary & stops The following stops are on the agenda, each offering valuable industry insights for the participants.
Your benefits Why this trip is particularly relevant for Thuringian companies
Participation helps Thuringian companies prepare concrete market steps in South Korea and establish targeted Contact in defense and aerospace ecosystems. The focus is particularly on:
Target audience Who is the trip for?
The business trip is aimed at companies, start-ups and R&D institutions focusing on dual-use technologies, particularly in:
Travel dates and costs
The company trip will take place from September 14th to 18th, 2026 (program days). Arrival and departure will be on September 13th and 19th, 2026, respectively.
Participation in the professional and organizational program of the business trip is supported by LEG Thüringen and Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI). However, participants will still incur travel and incidental expenses, which must be borne independently.
Which costs are covered?
The costs for the joint on-site program will be fully covered. This includes, in particular:
There are no additional costs for participants for these services.
What costs do the participants incur?
The following costs are not eligible for funding and are fully supported by the participating individuals:
Flight costs (indicative figures, as of March 3, 2026)
Example:
Outbound flight 13.09.2026, Germany → Seoul,
Return flight 18.09.2026, Seoul → Germany
- Economy Class: approx. €1,350
- Premium Economy Class: approx. €2,950
- Business Class: approx. €4,500
Flight prices are subject to daily changes. The prices valid at the time of booking apply. Payment for flights is made directly by the travel provider.
Accommodation costs
- 6 nights at approximately €250 per night
- In total: approximately €1,500
Hotel bookings are made through the local partner. Participants will be billed directly for their hotel costs.
Organization and catering fee
- €390 per person
The organization and catering fee will be invoiced by LEG Thüringen / Thüringen International after the trip has been completed.
Total costs (guideline value)
Depending on the chosen flight class, total costs per person start from approximately:
- from approx. €3,240 (Economy)
- correspondingly higher for Premium Economy or Business Class
The amounts mentioned are for guidance only.
Important instructions
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about the Business Trip to South Korea 2026
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When will the company trip to South Korea take place?
The trip will take place from September 14th to 18th, 2026; arrival and departure are individual (arrival September 13th, departure September 19th).
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For whom is this trip particularly suitable?
The Thuringian business trip to South Korea is particularly suitable for companies, start-ups and R&D institutions from Thuringia with a dual-use focus, including optics/photonics, sensor technology, microelectronics, materials and safety-relevant systems.
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What content is planned?
During the trip, company visits, B2B talks and networking events with industry, procurement and research are planned in Seoul, Daejeon and Changwon.
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What are the costs associated with the trip?
Participation is free for Thuringian companies; participants are responsible for their own travel, hotel, and meals. Local transfers and organization/program are covered by GTAI (de minimis).
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When is the registration deadline?
The The registration deadline is June 5, 2026.








