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Gangneung ITS World Congress Exhibitor List
The 32nd ITS World Congress (October 19-23, 2026) in Gangneung, South Korea, is the premier global event for intelligent transport systems, expecting 60,000+ attendees from 90 countries with a 420+ booth exhibition at Gangneung Olympic Park.
Companies exhibiting at Gangneung ITS World Congress Exhibitor List include (주)노비텍, (주)엠디에스테크, ADEC, Advanced Institute of Convergence Technology(Gyeonggi Future Mobility Center) and AhnLab, Inc.
(주)노비텍
(주)엠디에스테크
ADEC
Advanced Institute of Convergence Technology(Gyeonggi Future Mobility Center)
AhnLab, Inc.
Event overview
Overview
The 32nd ITS World Congress 2026 is the world's largest Intelligent Transport Systems event, known as the 'Transport Olympics'. It will be held in Gangneung, South Korea from October 19 to 23, 2026 at Gangneung Olympic Park under the theme 'Beyond Mobility, Connected World'.
Hosted by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) and Gangneung City, and organized by the 2026 Gangneung ITS World Congress Organizing Committee and ITS Korea, the congress expects over 60,000 attendees from 90 countries. The programme includes a High-Level Roundtable, academic sessions, an international exhibition with over 420 booths, technical visits and demonstrations, official and social programmes, and side events.
Key topics include automated driving and electric vehicles, smart infrastructure, mobility services, AI-driven and data-centric systems, policy and governance.
TL;DR
1The 32nd ITS World Congress takes place October 19-23, 2026 at Gangneung Olympic Park, South Korea.
2The event expects over 60,000 attendees from 90 countries, with 419+ exhibiting companies and 420+ exhibition booths.
3The theme is 'Beyond Mobility, Connected World', focusing on automated driving, smart infrastructure, mobility services, AI-driven systems, and policy/governance.
4The congress features a High-Level Roundtable, 163+ academic sessions, technical demonstrations, and a 100% sold-out exhibition.
5Gangneung is the first small-to-midsized city to host the ITS World Congress, positioning itself as a living testbed for ITS.
Why visit
Visiting ITS World Congress 2026 offers firsthand access to cutting-edge transport technologies through live demonstrations of Level 4 autonomous driving, parking robotics, AI traffic platforms, drone delivery, and smart crosswalks. The exhibition and outdoor experience zones are free to enter, with interactive exhibits for all ages. Attendees can participate in 163+ academic and technical sessions, high-level roundtables, and policy discussions featuring global experts. The event also includes unique side events such as a 3,000-drone light show, an ice show featuring national figure skaters, and cultural experiences including a coffee festival and traditional heritage tours. Gangneung itself serves as a living testbed for ITS, allowing visitors to experience smart mobility solutions throughout the city.
Why exhibit
Exhibiting at ITS World Congress 2026 provides access to the world's largest gathering of ITS professionals, including policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and technology providers from over 90 countries. The exhibition is 100% sold out with 420+ booths, ensuring high visibility among 60,000+ attendees. Exhibitors can showcase innovative technologies, services, and research to a global audience, build partnerships, reach new markets, and engage directly with potential partners, customers, investors, and transport authorities. The event also offers extensive media exposure and networking opportunities. For organisations in the UK and Europe, the UK & ERTICO European Pavilion provides a dedicated platform with branding, presentation opportunities, and connections to the global ITS community.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Government officials and policymakers
Transport authority representatives
Industry executives and business leaders
Researchers and academics
Technology providers and startups
General public and students (free exhibition access)
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Automotive manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers (e.g., Hyundai, LG Electronics)
Gangneung Convention Center (GCO) Opening/Closing Ceremonies, Academic SessionsGangneung Speed Skating Venue (Gangneung Oval) Main Exhibition HallGangneung Hockey Center (parking Lot Area) Technical DemonstrationsGangneung Olympic Park Outdoor Plaza Side Events and Experience Zones
On-site parking is available at Gangneung Olympic Park. The daily maximum fee is KRW 20,000 (for small vehicles) or KRW 24,000 (for large vehicles), charged per day. The first 10 minutes are free, then KRW 600 per 10 minutes for small vehicles or KRW 1,200 per 10 minutes for large vehicles. Parking may be limited during major events; public transport is recommended.
₩20,000/day
Accessibility
Gangneung Olympic Park was built to host the 2018 Winter Olympics and Paralympics and includes accessibility features such as wheelchair-accessible ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces. Wheelchair storage is available at venues, and accessible seating is provided in venues. Visitors with mobility needs should contact the venue or congress organizers in advance for specific arrangements.
Luggage storage
Coin lockers are available at Gangneung Station (KTX), about 1 km from the Olympic Park. The station has a limited number of lockers, including extra-large lockers suitable for carry-on suitcases. Fees start at around KRW 3,000 for 2 hours, with additional charges per hour thereafter. It is advisable to arrive early to secure a locker during peak times.
Charging points
Electric vehicle charging stations are available in the parking lot at Gangneung Olympic Park. The charging infrastructure includes ultra-fast chargers (100% in 18 minutes), fast chargers, and slow chargers. Charging is generally free or low-cost.
On-site shuttle
During the 2026 ITS World Congress, a registered-participant shuttle bus will operate on six routes connecting major hotels, the city center, tourist attractions, and the Olympic Park. The service is free for registered participants. City bus frequency on routes serving the park (routes 202 and 202-1) will be increased from 30 minutes to 15 minutes during the event. A free shuttle also operates between Gangneung Station and Yangyang International Airport twice daily.
Food options
Gangneung Olympic Park Food Court, Gangneung Coffee Street
On-site dining
Parking: The Gangneung Hockey Center parking lot area is used for ITS technology demonstration programs during the congress. Registered attendees can use 6 dedicated shuttle bus routes connecting major accommodations, downtown, and tourist areas; city buses 202 and 202-1 serving Olympic Park run at 15-minute intervals (reduced from 30 minutes). A K-MaaS taxi hailing service is available via the official event app for foreign visitors.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Free registration
Event days & opening times
DayOpening hours
Opening CeremonyOct 19 at 10:00 (Gangneung Convention Center)
Exhibition OpeningOct 19 at 11:30
Drone ShowOct 19 at 20:00
Event daysOfficial program concludes Oct 23 at 15:00
Exhibition open daily9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Event daysAcademic sessions and technical demonstrations run throughout the five-day congress
Exhibition visitor (on-site pre-registration)
Free entry to exhibition hall and outdoor plaza events. On-site pre-registration required by 9 October 2026 via official website.
Academic / policy sessions
Paid registration required; pricing available through official registration portal. Undergraduate students may register free.
Early-bird registration
Available until 30 June 2026; fees vary by category. 30% discount for visitors from developing countries (World Bank definition).
On-site visit pre-registration closes on 9 October 2026 via the official website. Undergraduate students and exhibition visitors are admitted free of charge. Advance registration is required for certain programs including the ice show.
Ticket notes
Exhibition hall (Speed Skating Venue) and outdoor plaza side events are free to visit without prior registration. Academic sessions and policy sessions at the Convention Center require paid registration; undergraduate students may register free. Early-bird registration runs until 30 June 2026. A 30% discount on registration fees is available for visitors from developing countries as defined by the World Bank.
Who runs the show
Organisers
2026 Gangneung ITS World Congress Organizing Committee
The ITS Hall of Fame awards recognise noteworthy contributions of individuals, organisations and local governments in support of intelligent, safe, efficient, sustainable and resilient mobility systems. Presented during the 32nd ITS World Congress in Gangneung, 19-23 October 2026. Each of the three organising regions (the Americas, Asia-Pacific, and EMEA) selects winners in three categories.
Lifetime Achievement AwardIndustry AwardLocal Government Award
Submitted papers are evaluated on academic completeness, research contribution, and creativity. Outstanding papers are selected and awarded in both scientific paper and technical paper categories.
Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT)
Host and government support
Gangwon State
Host and administrative support
Gangneung City
Host and local support
How the last edition performed
Previous edition
Current edition
2026 · 60,000 visitors
The organiser forecasts approximately 60,000 participants from 90 countries. The official congress website lists 420+ exhibition booths, while a September 2026 ITS Korea industry update reports 434 booths; neither figure is an exhibitor-company count, so no exhibitor count is inferred. Official congress materials state that the remodeled speed skating arena provides 31,439 sqm of total exhibition area, comprising 24,529 sqm indoors and 6,910 sqm outdoors.
Forecast — not final
Visitors
6,000
Visitor countries
61
Growth over time
Edition recap
The 31st ITS World Congress was held in Atlanta from August 24 to 28, 2025 at the Georgia World Congress Center. The official post-show report recorded nearly 6,000 attendees from 61 countries, regions and territories, with nearly 600 international speakers. Under the theme "Deploying Today, Empowering Tomorrow," the programme focused on practical deployment of connected transportation, automation, cybersecurity, AI, resilient transport systems and other intelligent-mobility technologies.
The organiser described the 2025 congress as its most successful edition to date. Its pre-show materials had promoted 300+ exhibitors and sponsors, although a final post-show exhibitor-company total was not published in the official recap reviewed here. The 2026 Gangneung edition is therefore tracked separately using organiser forecasts rather than treating its much larger projected attendance as completed-event performance.
New this edition
1
New Gangneung Convention Center
The Gangneung Convention Center officially opened on August 26, 2026 ahead of the World Congress and will serve as a key congress venue alongside Gangneung Olympic Park.
The 2026 edition uses Gangneung as a real-world mobility testbed, with demonstrations covering technologies including AI, LiDAR, digital twins and connected autonomous driving.
The collaboration and knowledge-sharing at this event are crucial for advancing our industry and setting new standards for the future.
Next edition outlook
2026-10-19 – 2026-10-23
high
The 32nd ITS World Congress will be held in Gangneung, South Korea, from October 19 to 23, 2026, under the theme 'Beyond Mobility, Connected World'. The event will take place at Gangneung Olympic Park, the legacy site of the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics. Organisers expect over 60,000 attendees from 90 countries, making it significantly larger in scale than the 2025 Atlanta edition. The congress will feature high-level roundtables, academic sessions, exhibitions, technical visits and demonstrations, official and social programs, and side events including a 3,000-drone show and an ice show.
Significant scale increase with expected 60,000 attendees compared to nearly 6,000 in 2025 New venue at Gangneung Olympic Park, a newly-built convention centre at the Winter Olympics legacy site Broader program including high-level roundtable, drone show, and ice show Focus on 'Beyond Mobility, Connected World' theme First time the congress is held in a small city of around 200,000 residents
Impact
A bigger and stronger platform
The 2025 ITS World Congress in Atlanta concluded as the most successful edition to date, attracting nearly 6,000 registered participants from 61 countries and regions. The four-day event featured 225 exhibitors, 179 sessions, 170 technical papers, and 630 speakers. Under the theme 'Deploying Today, Empowering Tomorrow', the congress focused on real-world deployment of intelligent transport systems, with live demonstrations including V2X Day One Deployment District (DODD) that recorded over 1,000 demonstration visits and more than 300 ride-alongs. The event showcased how innovation is reshaping transportation systems for enhanced safety and efficiency, with key topics including vehicle automation, connected transportation, sustainability, and multimodal integrated mobility.
Audience quality
High-value decision-makers
The 2025 edition attracted nearly 6,000 registered participants from 61 countries and regions, with the top five countries by registration being the United States, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom. The audience comprised industry professionals, government officials, researchers, and students from the global intelligent transportation ecosystem. The event featured 630 speakers across 179 sessions and 170 technical papers, ensuring high-level knowledge exchange. Plenary sessions provided insights from global leaders on connected technologies, secure ITS, and AI-driven resilience.
Exhibitor outcomes
Real business growth
No official exhibitor ROI metrics were published for the 2025 edition. The event featured 225 exhibitors showcasing transportation innovations across the exhibition floor, with more than 200 companies demonstrating products and services. The Day One Deployment District provided exhibitors with opportunities for live demonstrations and ride-alongs, with over 1,000 demonstration visits recorded. The presence of major global companies including Intel, Google, Toyota, Bosch, Denso, Panasonic, Honda, Aisin, Kapsch, Yunex Traffic, Q-Free, Swarco, PTV Group, AECOM, Cisco, Cubic, and Sony indicates strong industry participation.
Intelligence
Exhibitors
124
Exhibitors
14
Categories
14
Countries
16
Pavilions
Top exhibitor countries
Top 10 by exhibitor count — estimates based on published directory.
South Korea
82
United States
12
China
7
Japan
6
Germany
3
United Kingdom
2
Australia
2
Netherlands
2
Singapore
2
Indonesia
2
~66% of listed exhibitors are from South Korea.
Category breakdown
124Exhibitors
1~66
estimate
2~14
estimate
3~9
estimate
4~8
estimate
5~6
estimate
6~4
estimate
7~3
estimate
8~3
estimate
9~3
estimate
10~3
estimate
11~2
estimate
12~1
estimate
13~1
estimate
14~1
estimate
National pavilions
South Korea
~82 stands
estimate
United States
~12 stands
estimate
China
~7 stands
estimate
Japan
~6 stands
estimate
Germany
~3 stands
estimate
United Kingdom
~2 stands
estimate
Australia
~2 stands
estimate
Netherlands
~2 stands
estimate
Singapore
~2 stands
estimate
Indonesia
~2 stands
estimate
Taiwan
~1 stands
estimate
Sweden
~1 stands
estimate
Switzerland
~1 stands
estimate
Canada
~1 stands
estimate
Official pavilions
UK & ERTICO European Pavilion
Officially Confirmed
Coord. ERTICO – ITS Europe and Transport for West Midlands
ITS Industry Association, Alliance & Standards Body Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Laser, Sensor & Road Safety Detection Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Public Transport, Fleet Operations & MaaS Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Parking, Curbside & EV Charging Infrastructure Suppliers
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Asia-Pacific (primary), with global relevance from Europe and North America
Why it matters
The 2026 Gangneung ITS World Congress arrives at an inflection point for the global intelligent transportation systems market. The global ITS market is growing at double-digit rates, projected to reach $62.52 billion by 2030, with the Asia-Pacific region leading adoption. Korea's domestic ITS market is expanding faster than the global average, driven by government investment in smart infrastructure, 5G deployment, and autonomous vehicle development. For exhibitors and attendees, the Congress represents a unique opportunity to engage with a market where policy, technology, and deployment are converging at speed. The event's location in Gangneung—a small city that has transformed into a real-world testbed for autonomous shuttles, AI-driven traffic management, and driverless demand-responsive buses—demonstrates how ITS can be deployed at scale beyond major metropolises. With Korea's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport actively drafting regulations for urban air mobility and mobile robots, and Korean firms such as SAESOLTECH entering EU V2X security markets, the Congress serves as a bridge between Korea's domestic innovation ecosystem and global deployment opportunities. The strong presence of international delegations, ministerial-level participation, and 434 contracted exhibition booths underscores the event's role as a commercial and policy platform, not merely an academic conference.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
01
AI and Autonomous Driving Converge into Next-Generation ITS
The 2026 Gangneung ITS World Congress is positioning AI-driven signal control and autonomous mobility as the defining themes of the next ITS era. Gangneung itself is emerging as a real-world testbed, with autonomous demand-responsive City Call Buses, driverless tourist shuttles carrying over 10,000 passengers in a year, and plans to become Korea's leading driverless vehicle pilot city. The Congress will showcase 193 academic sessions, 449 papers, and 100 special sessions focused on AI-based ITS innovation.
ERTICO's ITS Market Radar Report 2026 identified direct vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication (5G-V2X) as the most impactful near-term development. In Europe, 2.5 million C-ITS-equipped vehicles are already on roads with around 3,000 roadside units. Korea is accelerating with KORAIL and Kakao Mobility partnering on AI-driven rail services, while Korean cybersecurity firm SAESOLTECH registered its PKI-based V2X security solution in the EU Trust Domain for immediate European market entry.
The global intelligent transportation systems market is projected to grow from $37.37 billion in 2025 to $41.51 billion in 2026, reaching $62.52 billion by 2030. Growth drivers include increasing urbanization, rising traffic congestion, adoption of AI-based traffic analytics, expansion of autonomous vehicle integration, and growing deployment of connected mobility solutions. South Korea's domestic ITS market is valued at $1,135.1 million in 2025 and is projected to reach $1,514.8 million by 2030, outpacing the global average with a 5.9% CAGR.
Cybersecurity Becomes Non-Negotiable for Connected Mobility
At the ITS European Congress 2026 in Istanbul, industry leaders identified cybersecurity as a defining and non-negotiable theme for the software-defined vehicle era. ERTICO's Market Radar Report anticipates greater standardization on over-the-air updates and EU-wide cybersecurity rules by around 2028. The 2026 Gangneung Congress will address policy and governance frameworks for secure ITS deployment across borders.
Korea's Autonomous Bus Commercialization Accelerates Ahead of Congress
Hyundai Motor and Kia signed a memorandum of understanding with the Seoul Metropolitan Government in October 2026 to commercialize Level 4 autonomous city buses, developing dedicated vehicles with standardized sensor configurations and a real-time control platform. Seoul already expanded early-morning autonomous bus service to four routes in April 2026. This regulatory and commercial momentum provides a live backdrop for the Gangneung Congress's autonomous mobility demonstrations.
Urban Air Mobility and Mobile Robots Enter Regulatory Frameworks
Korea's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport is designating new UAM pilot operation zones ahead of the planned 2028 launch of early commercial services, supporting vertiport testing, dedicated flight corridors, and passenger/cargo/tourism services. MOLIT has also drafted a special act to support safe commercial use of mobile robots for delivery, parking, and EV charging. These initiatives signal a broadening of ITS beyond road transport into multimodal and robotic mobility.
Gangneung ITS World Congress Expected to Draw 60,000 Attendees from 90 Countries, Generate KRW 198 Billion Economic Impact
The 2026 Gangneung ITS World Congress, the first in Korea in 16 years, will run October 19-23 at Gangneung Olympic Park under the theme 'Beyond Mobility, Connected World.' Organizers expect 60,000 attendees from 90 countries and an economic impact of KRW 198 billion. As of September 16, 3,180 participants from 70 countries had pre-registered, including 2,144 domestic and 1,036 international. The exhibition will feature 434 booths with 37 international and 72 domestic organizations, and all sellable booth space is already contracted. A total of 13 government representatives, including 7 minister-level and 6 vice-minister-level officials, will attend the ministerial meeting.
ITS Korea Strengthens Academic Credentials with Florida Polytechnic University Tie-Up Ahead of World Congress
ITS Korea, host of the 2026 ITS World Congress, has established a new academic partnership with Florida Polytechnic University. The collaboration aims to strengthen research exchange and academic participation in the Congress, reinforcing Korea's position as a global ITS knowledge hub. The Congress will feature 193 academic sessions, 449 papers, and 100 special sessions.
Gangneung Autonomous Fleet Tops 10,000 Riders as City Prepares for ITS World Congress Showcase
Gangneung's autonomous vehicle fleet has carried more than 10,000 passengers in a year, with seven vehicles operating across tourist and rural routes. Ahead of the October Congress, the city plans to add late-night autonomous services from mid-September and has launched a free trial of an autonomous demand-responsive City Call Bus with Hyundai Motor. Gangneung is set to become Korea's leading driverless vehicle pilot city with government support expected to expand beyond the current seven vehicles.
ERTICO Delivers ITS Market Radar Report 2026 on Connectivity at Istanbul Congress
ERTICO-ITS Europe presented its 2026 Market Radar Report at the ITS European Congress in Istanbul, focusing on connectivity, V2X, and the supplier ecosystem. The report identified 5G-V2X as the most impactful near-term development and called for greater standardization on over-the-air updates and EU-wide cybersecurity rules by 2028. Industry leaders emphasized that cybersecurity is non-negotiable and that fragmented pilots must scale to real-world deployment.
Global ITS Market to Reach $41.51 Billion in 2026, Growing 11.1% Year-on-Year
The Business Research Company's Intelligent Transportation Systems Global Market Report 2026 projects the global ITS market will grow from $37.37 billion in 2025 to $41.51 billion in 2026 at an 11.1% CAGR, reaching $62.52 billion by 2030. Growth is attributed to increasing urbanization, rising traffic congestion, adoption of electronic tolling, and smart city investments. Tariffs on imported ITS components are raising project costs but also encouraging local manufacturing and software-driven traffic management solutions.
Hyundai Motor and Kia Move to Commercialize Level 4 Autonomous City Buses in Seoul
Hyundai Motor and Kia signed a memorandum of understanding with the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Seoul Bus Transport Business Association to commercialize Level 4 autonomous city buses. The agreement covers dedicated buses with standardized sensor configurations and redundant components, a real-time control platform for multiple autonomous buses, and policy support for regulatory improvements. Seoul already operates early-morning autonomous buses on four routes and plans to shift from developer-operated pilots to existing bus operators purchasing and running autonomous vehicles directly.
March 2026 (Intertraffic Amsterdam) through November 2026 (Smart City Expo World Congress), with the Gangneung ITS World Congress as the October anchor
The ITS World Congress is the anchor event of a broader global circuit that spans regional congresses, specialist trade fairs, and academic conferences across Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Americas. In the 12 months surrounding Gangneung 2026, the circuit moves from Europe (Istanbul in April, Intertraffic Amsterdam in March) through North America (Detroit in June) and Asia-Pacific (Melbourne in September, Gangneung in October), then back to Europe (Thessaloniki in September, Barcelona in November). This creates a continuous opportunity for exhibitors and delegates to maintain commercial momentum across regions. The Gangneung Congress is the largest single gathering, with 60,000 expected attendees, but regional events offer more focused audiences—Intertraffic Amsterdam draws 900+ exhibitors focused on traffic technology, ITS America attracts 3,000+ professionals with a strong automotive and public-sector presence, and Smart City Expo World Congress connects ITS to the broader urban innovation agenda. For organizations planning a 2026-2027 circuit, the optimal sequence is to use regional events for lead generation and market intelligence, then consolidate at the World Congress for global visibility and ministerial-level engagement.
10–13 Mar 2026
Intertraffic Amsterdam 2026
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Focus on smart infrastructure, traffic management, and sustainable mobility. Debut of Smart Infra stage. Next edition: 7-10 March 2028.
Theme: Empowering Innovation. 3,000+ professionals from 23 countries, 100+ sessions, 170+ exhibitors. Debut of Cybersecurity & Data Zone. Held at Huntington Place.
Theme: Roots & Routes. Brings together policymakers, city representatives, and mobility practitioners. Complements ITS congresses with a stronger urban policy and liveability orientation.
29th edition. Theme: Innovative Solutions for Future Transportation. Focus on autonomous vehicle systems, cooperative connected vehicles, sensing and perception, and emerging ITS technologies. Strong researcher and PhD community.
Theme: Connected Transport for Now and Tomorrow. 600+ industry representatives, 250+ presentations over 50 sessions. Focus on road user charging, connectivity, and transport technology.
Theme: Beyond Mobility, Connected World. 193 academic sessions, 449 papers, 100 special sessions, 434 exhibition booths. Ministerial meeting with 13 government representatives. Technical demonstrations of AI signal control and autonomous mobility in a real city environment.
15th edition. Held at Fira Barcelona Gran Via. Focus on scalable urban solutions, smart infrastructure, and city-level digital transformation. Strong overlap with ITS buyers in municipal governments.
Kick-off of the 2026 circuit with the largest Intertraffic edition ever. Best for exhibitors targeting European traffic technology buyers and infrastructure contractors.
April 2026 – Europe regional congress window
ITS European Congress 2026
ERTICO's regional congress in Istanbul bridges Europe and Asia. Strong policy and deployment focus, with the Market Radar Report setting the agenda for the year.
June 2026 – North America regional congress window
ITS America Conference & Expo 2026
Detroit's automotive heritage and public-sector presence make this the key North American touchpoint. Cybersecurity & Data Zone debut signals growing enterprise IT convergence.
September 2026 – Academic and urban mobility window
IEEE ITSC 2026CIVITAS Forum 2026ITS Australia Global Summit 2026
Three events in one month across Europe and Asia-Pacific. ITSC for research and academic credibility; CIVITAS for urban policy and city networks; ITS Australia for Asia-Pacific government and industry engagement.
October 2026 – Global anchor window
ITS World Congress 2026 (Gangneung)
The circuit's centerpiece. Maximum global visibility, ministerial participation, and a real-world demonstration environment in Gangneung. Essential for organizations seeking global positioning or Korean market entry.
November 2026 – Smart city convergence window
Smart City Expo World Congress 2026
Closes the circuit by connecting ITS to the broader smart city agenda. Strong municipal buyer presence and cross-sectoral innovation focus.
Event dates are sourced from official event websites and organiser announcements where available. Intertraffic Amsterdam dates from intertraffic.com; ITS European Congress dates from 2026.itseuropeancongress.com and ERTICO; ITS America dates from itsamericaevents.com; CIVITAS Forum dates from civitas.eu; IEEE ITSC dates from ieee-itsc.org; ITS Australia dates from its-australia.com.au; ITS World Congress dates from 2026itsworldcongress.org; Smart City Expo dates from smartcityexpo.com. All dates are for 2026 unless otherwise noted.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · KRW
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
YNY
Yangyang International Airport
Closest airport to Gangneung; free shuttle bus to/from Gangneung Station (KTX) operates twice daily, journey about 50 minutes; taxi and intercity bus options also available.
about 26 km
to venue
about 40 minutes
by car
WJU
Wonju Airport
Domestic airport with limited scheduled flights; mainly served by bus or car.
about 90 km
to venue
about 1 hour 30 minutes
by car
ICN
Incheon International Airport
Main international gateway to South Korea; KTX from Incheon Airport to Gangneung takes about 2 hours 30 minutes; direct limousine buses also available.
about 240 km
to venue
about 3 hours 30 minutes
by car
GMP
Gimpo International Airport
Mostly domestic and short-haul international flights; connect to Gangneung via KTX from Seoul Station or express bus.
about 220 km
to venue
about 3 hours
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
budget
Gangneung Station area / Jeongdongjin
USD 30–80 / night
Estimated range for guesthouses, motels, and 2-star properties. Examples include Gangneung Jin House Pension (from ~$31), Jeongdongjin Sun Guest House (from ~$34), and Jumunjin Hotel (~$20-27). Prices are estimates based on 2026 booking platform data and may rise during the congress period.
mid range
Gyeongpo / Gangmun / downtown
USD 80–180 / night
Estimated range for 3-4 star hotels and serviced apartments. Examples include St. John's Hotel (from ~$52-109), Chonpines Ocean Suites, and Hotel East9 (~$81). Prices are estimates; expect higher rates during the congress week (Oct 19-23, 2026).
premium
Gyeongpo Beach / seaside
USD 180–700 / night
Estimated range for 5-star and luxury properties. Examples include SEAMARQ Hotel (from ~$694), Shillamonogram Gangneung Hotel (~$94-439), and Sun Cruise Resort and Yacht. SEAMARQ Hotel is the venue for the Ministerial Roundtable (Oct 19). Prices are estimates and subject to availability.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
KTX high-speed rail
Estimated costKRW 26,000-52,000 (approx. $19-38)
Best forSeoul Station → Gangneung Station
Journey takes approximately 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes. Trains run hourly from early morning (approx. 05:06) to late evening (approx. 22:27). Gangneung Station is about 1 km from Gangneung Olympic Park. Book tickets via KORAIL (letskorail.com) or the KORAIL app. A free shuttle bus connects Gangneung Station to Yangyang International Airport twice daily (departing station at 08:20 and 13:10).
Best forGangneung Station → Olympic Park (buses 202, 202-1, 202-2, 302)
Bus 202-1 and 202-2 run from Gangneung Station to Surigol stop, then an 8-minute walk (550m) to Gangneung Olympic Park. Journey takes about 18 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day. Transportation cards can be purchased at convenience stores and offer fare discounts.
Taxi
Estimated costBase fare approx. KRW 3,800; short trips KRW 5,000-10,000
Best forAnywhere in Gangneung → Gangneung Olympic Park
Taxis operate 24 hours. Call taxis may charge an extra fee (typically KRW 1,000). Taxi tours are available at KRW 30,000-60,000 for 3 hours. Taxis are a convenient option for hotel-to-venue transfers, especially for groups.
Official congress shuttle bus
Estimated costFree for registered participants
Best forParticipating hotels → Gangneung Olympic Park
Shuttle service is available for participating official hotels. Early booking offers were available until 31 July 2026. Check the official congress website for the full list of participating hotels and shuttle schedules. Shuttles are expected to run throughout the congress days (Oct 19-23, 2026).
Autonomous shuttle
Estimated costFree (advance reservation required)
Best forGangneung Station / Bus Terminal → Olympic Museum → key tourist sites
Gangneung operates a tourism-oriented autonomous vehicle service on three routes (A, B, C) connecting Gangneung Station, the bus terminal, Ojukheon, Olympic Museum, Gyeongpo, and Anmok Beach. Reservations can be made via the Gangneung city tourism website or by calling 1668-2115. This is a unique local transport experience aligned with the ITS congress theme.
Plan your trip
Visa & entry documents
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
Visa not required
ATA Carnet: accepted
Type
Who needs it
Fee
Processing
C-3-4 Short-Term Business Visa
Nationals of countries without a visa-waiver agreement with South Korea who intend to stay for 90 days or less for non-remunerative business activities such as market research, business communication, consulting, contract signing, attending conferences, or similar purposes.
$40.00
At least 7–10 working days; may extend to 20 working days if additional documents or an interview are required.
K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)
Nationals of visa-waiver countries who are required to obtain pre-travel authorization. As of 2026, K-ETA is temporarily exempt for eligible nationals until December 31, 2026. Business visitors from the 8 designated countries/regions with 'important business purpose' may apply through the Priority Entry (Business) Persons channel via their Korean host company or organization.
Not yet confirmed
About 5 days from receipt of the application form by the Ministry of Justice for Priority Entry (Business) Persons. Standard K-ETA processing typically takes 72 hours or more.
Visa-Free Entry (Visa Waiver Agreement)
Nationals of countries and territories that have a visa-waiver agreement with South Korea. The full list includes 17 countries/regions in Asia, 41 in Europe, 45 in the Americas and Oceania, and 8 in Africa, covering approximately 111 countries and territories.
Not yet confirmed
Not applicable; entry is granted upon arrival with a valid passport.
As of 2026, citizens of approximately 111 countries and territories can enter South Korea visa-free for short-term business purposes. Key visa-free nationalities include: Japan (90 days), United States (90 days), Canada (6 months), Australia (90 days), New Zealand (3 months), all EU member states (typically 90 days), United Kingdom (90 days for British citizens), Singapore (90 days), Hong Kong (90 days), Taiwan (90 days), Brazil (90 days), Mexico (3 months), and many others. The K-ETA temporary exemption has been extended until December 31, 2026, allowing eligible nationals to enter for tourism or short-term business using only a valid passport. Travelers should verify their specific nationality's current entry requirements before travel, as policies are subject to change. Some visa-free entrants may be required to submit an e-Arrival card within three days before arrival.
South Korea accepts ATA Carnets for temporary admission of goods. The ATA Carnet system is governed by the Customs Convention on the A.T.A. Carnet for Temporary Admission of Goods, implemented in Korea through the Korea Customs Service Notice (2026-7, effective January 2, 2026). ATA Carnets are accepted for temporary import/export and bonded transport of professional equipment, goods for display or use at exhibitions, fairs, meetings, and similar events, commercial samples, and advertising materials. Goods intended for production, processing, repair, leasing, sale, or consumption cannot be imported using an ATA Carnet. The ATA Carnet is valid for one year. Korea accepts replacement ATA Carnets without prior approval. For exhibition and fair participation, customs clearance using an ATA Carnet requires prior application and approval in Korea before bringing in the related documents and goods. The Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KORCHAM) is the issuing and guaranteeing body in Korea. Korea joined the ATA Carnet system, and carnets are accepted for transit, postal traffic, and unaccompanied goods.
October in Gangneung is mild and pleasant autumn weather. Average daytime highs range from 17°C to 22°C (63°F–72°F) and nighttime lows from 9°C to 14°C (48°F–57°F). The month is generally dry with a low chance of rain (about 19% on an average day), though occasional light showers are possible. Evenings can feel breezy and cool. Pack layers, a light jacket, and a compact umbrella for occasional showers. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the outdoor Olympic Park and surrounding venues.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
Gangneung Olympic Park is well connected by public transport. Gangneung Station (KTX) is about 1 km from the park and is served by city buses (routes 202 and 202-1, approximately every 15–30 minutes) and taxis. A dedicated free shuttle bus operates between Gangneung Station and Yangyang International Airport twice daily, with the journey taking about 50 minutes. During the 2026 ITS World Congress, a registered-participant shuttle bus will run on six routes connecting major hotels, the city center, tourist attractions, and the Olympic Park. City bus frequency on routes serving the park will be increased from 30 minutes to 15 minutes during the event. Gangneung's city bus fare is KRW 1,700 cash or KRW 1,530 with a T-money transport card. The KTX high-speed rail connects Gangneung to Seoul in about 2 hours. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or via apps.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Greetings and respect
A slight bow is the customary greeting in Korea, especially with elders or in formal situations. Handshakes are also common, but wait for the other person to extend their hand first. Maintaining a polite, reserved demeanor in initial interactions is appreciated.
Shoes off indoors
Remove your shoes before entering a Korean home or certain traditional restaurants. Look for a shoe rack or follow the example of locals. Wearing shoes indoors is considered disrespectful.
Dining etiquette
Wait for the eldest person at the table to start eating before you begin. Never stick your chopsticks upright in a rice bowl, as this resembles funeral rites. Use both hands when giving or receiving items, especially to elders.
Tipping is not customary
Tipping is not expected or widely practiced in South Korea. Service charges are typically included in the bill at restaurants and hotels. Leaving small change is acceptable but not required.
Transport cards and payment
A T-money card is useful for buses, subways, and taxis. Cards can be purchased at convenience stores for about KRW 2,500 and topped up in KRW 1,000 increments. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small vendors and traditional markets.
Public behavior
Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, especially among older generations. Avoid pointing or beckoning with a single finger; use your whole hand instead. Keep your voice down in public transport and quiet spaces.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: YNY
Yangyang International Airport (YNY) has limited direct international flights, primarily from certain Asian cities. Most international visitors will fly into Incheon International Airport (ICN) and take a KTX train or express bus to Gangneung. Book flights and KTX tickets early, especially for travel during the congress period.
Visa
Visa requirements for South Korea depend on nationality and purpose of visit. Many nationalities can enter visa-free for short-term business purposes, while others must obtain a C-3-4 short-term business visa. The K-ETA requirement is temporarily exempt for eligible nationals until December 31, 2026. Business travelers should verify their specific requirements before travel.
Estimated cost: Not yet confirmed
The C-3-4 business visa fee is USD 40 for single entry. Processing generally takes 7–10 working days but may extend to 20 working days. K-ETA for Priority Entry (Business) Persons is processed in about 5 days but must be initiated by the Korean host company or organization. Visa-free entry is available for many nationalities, with stay periods ranging from 30 days to 6 months depending on nationality. All travelers should check the Korea Visa Portal for their specific situation.
Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.
Check-in (recommended)
2026-10-19
Check-out (recommended)
2026-10-23
Areas to stay
Gangneung Station area (closest to venue, ~1 km) · Gyeongpo / Gangmun (beach area, 15-20 min by bus/taxi) · Downtown Gangneung (central, good dining and amenities) · Jeongdongjin (coastal, scenic, ~30 min by train/bus)
budget
$30-80 per night (estimated)
mid range
$80-180 per night (estimated)
premium
$180-700+ per night (estimated)
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Yangyang International Airport is the closest airport to Gangneung (about 26 km). A free shuttle bus operates twice daily between Gangneung Station (KTX) and Yangyang International Airport, departing Gangneung Station at 08:20 and 13:10, and Yangyang Airport at 10:20 and 14:50. Journey takes approximately 50 minutes. Intercity buses from Yangyang Airport to Gangneung Intercity Bus Terminal cost KRW 7,300. Incheon International Airport is about 3 hours by KTX to Gangneung Station, with trains running 4 times daily.
Hotel → venue: Downtown Atlanta and convention-center hotels are typically within walking distance or a short ride-hail/MARTA trip to the venue.
Ride-hail: Kakao Taxi and other ride-hailing apps operate in Gangneung, though availability may be limited outside central areas. Regular taxis are plentiful and operate 24 hours. Call taxis charge an extra fee (typically KRW 1,000). The autonomous shuttle service is also available free with advance reservation.
Public transit: Gangneung has a city bus network with fares of KRW 1,800 by transportation card or KRW 2,400 in cash. Buses 202, 202-1, 202-2, and 302 serve Olympic Park from Gangneung Station. Transportation cards can be purchased at convenience stores. The KTX high-speed rail connects Gangneung to Seoul in about 2 hours, with hourly service.
Parking: On-site parking is available at Gangneung Olympic Park. The daily maximum fee is KRW 20,000 for small vehicles and KRW 24,000 for large vehicles. The first 10 minutes are free. Parking may be limited during the congress, so public transport and shuttles are recommended.
Seasonality: Generally dry with about a 19% chance of rain on an average day; occasional light showers possible; evenings can be breezy and cool
Packing: Pack layers, a light jacket, a compact umbrella, and comfortable walking shoes. A scarf or light sweater is useful for cooler evenings.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: 2026-10-22 (Thursday)
For a one-day plan, Thursday combines PL03 from 09:00-10:30, a full Congress day of exhibition plus technical visits/demonstrations, Business Matching availability, the 13:00-15:00 International Expert Seminar on ITS Standardization, and the free Ice Show from 19:00-20:00. Some elements require the appropriate paid pass or advance booking, so exhibition-only visitors should tailor the schedule to their access.
T-30
Lock accommodation in a Congress shuttle-served area — Guidance: prioritize an official partner hotel or accommodation near the Gyeongpo, Gangmun, Jumunjin, Jeongdongjin, station/bus-terminal or downtown shuttle loops. The organiser confirmed special-rate partner hotels and Congress shuttle service, but public room rates were not verified.
T-21
Choose the right access level — Official: a full Exhibition Visitor pass is free and covers the exhibition plus opening and closing ceremonies, but Convention Center access may be limited. Paid Delegate access includes the session programme, exhibition, Welcome Reception, lunches and registration kit.
T-14
Install the official Congress app and build a target list — Guidance: bookmark priority sessions and exhibitors, save venue maps and shuttle routes, and identify people to meet. The official app supports programme browsing, exhibitor profiles, networking and QR contact exchange.
T-10
Complete online registration before the regular deadline — Official: regular online registration closes October 9, 2026. Register earlier if you need paid Delegate access, demonstrations or technical visits.
T-7
Request business-matching meetings — Official: Business Matching runs October 19-23 in the Gangneung Oval 1F Business Lounge for registered Congress participants. Time slots are first-come, first-served; on-site applications are only for remaining slots.
T-5
Save badge, QR and Ice Show entry details — Official: registered Congress users need their badge for Ice Show entry, and the organiser says registration QR codes are sent five days before the Congress. Pre-registered online Ice Show visitors use a physical ticket collected on the day.
T-3
Confirm the final shuttle route and stop — Official: the participant transport portal publishes airport, hotel, station, city and on-site shuttle routes for the Congress. Recheck the final timetable close to travel.
T-1
Turn the agenda into a meeting-first day plan — Guidance: reserve fixed meeting slots first, then add exhibition zones, demonstrations and sessions around them. Keep a backup list because programme details and queues can change.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
08:30-09:00
Arrive, check the official app, confirm meetings and move to the Convention Hall if using Delegate access.
Gangneung Olympic Park
09:00-10:30
Attend PL03, The Evolution of Mobility: Localized Innovation and New Ecosystems, if your pass includes the session programme; exhibition-only visitors can begin their floor plan instead.
Convention Hall / Gangneung Oval
10:30-12:00
Walk the two most relevant exhibition zones first and hold pre-arranged booth meetings.
Gangneung Oval
12:00-13:00
Lunch and write next-step notes before the afternoon meeting block.
Dining Area near Gangneung Oval and Central Plaza
13:00-14:30
Use a pre-booked Business Matching slot or the Open Lounge for partner conversations.
Gangneung Oval 1F Business Lounge / Open Lounge
14:30-16:30
Use a technical-demonstration or exhibition follow-up window according to your access and bookings; revisit only the highest-priority suppliers.
Gangneung Olympic Park demonstration areas / Gangneung Oval
16:30-17:30
Close open meeting loops, exchange details and assign next actions before leaving the exhibition.
Gangneung Oval
19:00-20:00
Attend the free Ice Show with the required badge or physical ticket; arrive early because seating is first-come within designated areas.
Gangneung Hockey Center
Side trips
5
Gyeongpodae Pavilion
Heritage and Scenic Stop
A low-friction pre-show or evening stop with lake views; VisitKorea lists it as open 24 hours with free admission.
Near the Olympic Park and Gyeongpo Lake area; exact travel time depends on route
Gyeongpo Beach
Beach and Coastal Walk
A 1.8 km sandy beach with a pine forest, useful for an informal walk after a packed Congress day.
1 km from Gyeongpodae Pavilion
Ojukheon House
Heritage and Museum
A major Gangneung heritage site and birthplace of Joseon scholar Yi I; VisitKorea lists 09:00-18:00 opening with last admission at 17:00.
Allow about 1 hour onsite
Gangneung Coffee Street
Coffee and Coastal District
A practical informal meetup area with many ocean-view cafes; it is not an official Congress networking venue.
Anmok Beach; local travel time varies
Gangneung Coffee Festival
City Festival
The festival overlaps the Congress and offers an after-hours local-culture option; programme fees vary.
October 21-25, 2026 at Gangneung Coffee Street and locations across the city
Networking spots
4
Business Lounge
Official Business Matching
Gangneung Oval 1F. One-on-one meetings run October 19-23; slots are first-come, first-served and on-site applications depend on remaining availability.
Open Lounge
Official Exhibition Networking Area
Dedicated lounge shown on the official Gangneung Oval exhibition floor plan; use it for short follow-ups between booth meetings.
Welcome Reception
Official Social Event
October 19, 17:00-18:30 at Gangneung Oval. It is included with paid Delegate registration.
Gangneung Coffee Street
Recommended Informal Meetup
Oceanfront cafe district at Anmok Beach. Recommendation only; it is not an official Congress networking venue.
Budget
Costs & budget
Japan Pavilion packaged booth pricing published by ITS Japan: JPY 1,850,000 per booth unit (approx. 4m wide display wall with storage-equipped display stand), inclusive of space fee, pavilion construction, and operation costs. This is a reference price; actual invoiced amount is settled on a cost-actual basis after the congress, considering exchange rate fluctuations. Individual exhibit and decoration costs are not included. Cancellation fees apply from March 1, 2026: JPY 440,000 (3/1-4/30), JPY 1,160,000 (5/1-7/25), JPY 1,440,000 (7/26-8/21), JPY 1,850,000 (8/22-). Application period: December 3, 2025 February 20, 2026. Settlement expected mid-November 2026, payment due end of February 2027.
Choose the closest answer for each question. The result weighs event fit, access, budget, booth readiness, travel and follow-up.
QUESTION 1 OF 8
How closely does your work match the Congress's core ITS themes?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your ITS fit is strong, you can pre-plan meetings, and you want to learn, source or partner without committing to booth execution.
Best for
Buyers, transport authorities, researchers, solution scouts and suppliers that need market intelligence, demonstrations or meetings without taking on a booth.
Min. budget
Not yet confirmed
Timeline
A one-day visit can work; paid Delegate registration is available online until October 9, while the full Exhibition Visitor category is free.
Risks
Free Exhibition Visitor access may be limited inside the Convention Center.
Demonstrations and technical visits may require paid access or additional fees.
A one-day plan can become fragmented if meetings, sessions and demonstrations are not pre-booked.
exhibit
Your booth is already confirmed, the event audience maps directly to your pipeline, and you can convert demonstrations and Business Matching into owned follow-up.
Best for
ITS vendors with a confirmed booth, a clear fit with the four exhibition zones, target buyers among governments and mobility organizations, and a staffed follow-up process.
Min. budget
$6,000.00
Timeline
The official exhibition application deadline was August 31, 2026, so this path now assumes an accepted booth plus final build, staffing, demo and meeting preparation before October 19.
Risks
The public application deadline has passed, so unconfirmed companies should not assume space remains.
Space-only pricing excludes the exhibitor's own booth installation and other execution costs.
Heavy equipment may face location-specific floor-load constraints and requires prior Secretariat consultation.
Booth ROI will be weakened if lead ownership and rapid follow-up are not defined before the show.
skip
The audience is not commercially or strategically relevant enough to justify travel, or your team cannot turn attendance into a defined next step.
Best for
Organizations with weak ITS category fit, no realistic travel capacity, no clear objective, or an unconfirmed booth after the application deadline.
Min. budget
Not yet confirmed
Timeline
No on-site preparation required; use the time instead to monitor published programme and exhibitor information for future editions.
Risks
You miss direct access to the 2026 exhibition, Business Matching and live ITS demonstrations.
You may lose face-to-face visibility with international public-sector and mobility stakeholders attending the Congress.
Book with
Partners
ITS Korea
Organizer
Official organizer of the 2026 Gangneung ITS World Congress together with the 2026 Gangneung ITS World Congress Organizing Committee.
Official 2026 participant transport portal linked to the Congress website.
STraffic Co., Ltd.
K-MaaS Mobility Partner
ITS Korea states that STraffic is partnering with Gangneung City, the Metropolitan Area Transport Commission and Korea Expressway Corporation to introduce K-MaaS during the Congress for KTX, bus and taxi search, booking and payment.
ITS Korea International Cooperation Center newsletter dated September 23, 2026.
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
Glossary
1
ITS
Intelligent Transport Systems — the integration of transport modes and infrastructure with information and communication technologies to improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
2
C-ITS
Cooperative ITS — systems where vehicles, infrastructure, and other road users share information to enable safer and more efficient transport.
3
MaaS
Mobility as a Service — the integration of various transport services into a single, user-centric mobility solution accessible on demand.
4
UAM
Urban Air Mobility — the use of airspace for passenger and cargo transport in urban environments, often involving eVTOL aircraft.
5
V2X
Vehicle-to-Everything — communication between a vehicle and any entity that may affect it, including other vehicles, infrastructure, and pedestrians.
6
Transport Olympics
A widely used nickname for the ITS World Congress, reflecting its scale and global significance in the transport technology sector.
Trust footer
Sources
42
References
22
Publishers
0
Date checked
1
2026 Gangneung ITS World Congress Organizing Committee (hosted by ITS Japan)
