Presenting Creative textiles Fusing Functionality with Cultural Codes!

The Korea Federation of Textile Industries (KOFOTI, Chairman Hee-Chan Ro) is to host “Preview in Seoul 2011,” a premier textile exhibition, in COEX 1/F, B Hall, Seoul, from August 31 to September 2. “Preview in Seoul,” which marks its 12th anniversary this year, is establishing itself as one of Asia’s leading textile exhibitions by boosting the nation’s textile export and domestic textile transactions.

The exhibition will showcase a wide range of the latest textiles reflecting global sensibilities and trends. It will particularly feature textiles based on new concepts combining functionality with cultural themes represented by “smart.” A variety of textiles will be exhibited, including functional textiles for sports purposes equipped with environmentally friendly and well-being functions; textiles that represent comfort in preparation for the increasingly hot and humid weather, yet at the same time maximize fashion elements in appearance; textiles whose prices and qualities are adjusted while reflecting the latest trends in response to fast fashion, as well as high-strength fabrics in response to UV rays, radiation, earthquake and fire.

In particular, Preview in Seoul 2011 is being planned to significantly expand the participation of companies that take part in major international textile and fabric fairs, such as “Premiere Vision,” “Texworld,” and “ISPO” in an effort to position itself as an advanced convergence textile exhibition to show Korean companies’ differentiated competitive edge. It will also reflect global trends by showcasing sustainable textile materials fusing functionality with eco-friendliness.

As for overseas exhibitors whose number has been steadily on the rise, 10 large textile companies in India will participate in the fair under the India Pavilion sponsored by the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry. Moreover, participation applications are being continuously received from various countries, including China, Japan, France and Austria.

Amid the promising outlook for expanded Korea-EU trade following the immediate elimination of tariffs by the EU with the upcoming implementation of the Korea-EU FTA (Free Trade Agreement) in July this year, it is anticipated that visits by buyers from the EU region will be rising. They are expected to show keen interest in Korea’s textile market during the exhibition period.

Furthermore, KOFOTI Secretariat plans to actively invite not only managers in charge of global sourcing which is mainly concentrated in the Asian region, but also sourcing representatives of renowned overseas fashion brands and large apparel manufacturers by utilizing its extensive global networks.

In addition, a “Trend Forum” will be set up inside the exhibition venue which will feature diverse textiles of exhibitors and latest trends in a single venue. A fashion show will be also held featuring clothes produced with exhibited textiles provided by exhibitors inside the exhibition venue, thereby boosting application possibilities of various textiles, as well as raising their profile and visual functions for buyers.

At the same time, during Preview in Seoul 2011, a variety of side events are also in store, including business exchange meetings to reinforce networks between overseas buyers and Korea’s exhibitors and seminars attended by experts on domestic and international fashion and business trends, to boost practical networking among participants.

KOFOTI Vice Chairman Dong-Soo Kim explained the significance of the 2011 show, saying, “In order to affirm its standing as Korea’s unique, differentiated exhibition leading Asia’s fashion, Preview in Seoul 2011 is expanding participation not only of the nation’s top high-functional and eco-friendly textile companies, but also fashion companies with global sensibilities.”

For inquiries about participation, please contact KOFOTI’s Fashion Exhibition Team (Tel: 82-2-528-4016).

For press information, please contact:
Ms. Mandy, An / Mr. Kwang Hee, Yun

T : 822-528-4016/ 822-528-4020

E : mandy48@kofoti.or.kr / ykh333@kofoti.or.kr

Original post by Dabin Yang