From 30 August to 4 September 2026, we travelled to Seoul for the second time as part of a delegation trip – with a packed programme and growing interest in one of the most exciting growth markets for German fashion. The trip took place as part of Berlin Fashion X International, the internationalisation project of Fashion Council Germany (FCG), supported by the Berlin Senate Department for Economic Affairs, Energy and Public Enterprises, which helps fashion brands expand their international presence.

This time, the delegation included Anne Bernecker, Ante, Carolin Dieler, Iden, Marispyper Studios, MARKE, Melagence, PLNGNS, Rayas Collective, SF1OG, TaTi and VLADIMIR KARALEEV. Alongside gaining insights into the Korean market, the trip provided

plenty of opportunities for exchange and dialogue. Over the course of a multi-day showroom, the brands presented their collections to an industry audience of buyers, stylists, members of the press and creatives, establishing lasting connections with the local market.

„The delegation trip to Seoul was an incredible opportunity to gain first-hand insight into a dynamic and strong market with a real interest in German craftsmanship and design“, said Mario Keine, designer of the lable MARKE. „For me, this experience was crucial in understanding how to build a global presence - not only by engaging with a new consumer and market, but also by reconsidering how collections and storytelling can speak to a truly global audience, taking different cultures, perspectives and even climate zones into account from the very beginning of the design process.“

“The Korean market is of great strategic importance to us. Korea is recognised as an international trendsetter and an important gateway to the wider Asian market. There is an exceptionally strong appreciation for luxury, quality and innovative design here. Some of our first retail customers were Korean stores, so our connection to this market has been particularly close from the outset,” add Rosa Marga Dahl and Jacob Langemeyer of SF1OG. “Berlin Fashion X International gave us the valuable opportunity to visit our retail partners on the ground, deepen existing personal relationships and build new connections. At the same time, we were able to experience the Korean market first-hand and gain valuable new insights into its dynamics, needs and potential.”

The delegation trip kicked off on 31 August with the Opening Reception of the Berlin Showroom, realised in collaboration with the agency Futuresociety, with music provided by Kompakt Record Bar . The showroom remained open for two further days, on 1 and 2 September, welcoming buyers, members of the press, stylists and KOLs for personal visits and appointments with the brands. A particular highlight throughout all three days was a dedicated B2C installation created in collaboration with the agency Salted Bits , which also invited passers-by to discover the participating brands.

The accompanying professional programme was designed to prepare the participating labels specifically for the Korean market. Workshops on Korean business culture, PR and social media – including sessions with Alex Choi and Ronnie Keame (Lefty) – provided practical knowledge and insights into the local market. A retail tour took the delegation to leading department stores such as Hyundai, as well as renowned flagship stores including Haus Nowhere, offering a deeper understanding of Korea’s retail landscape at the intersection of luxury, art and retail experience. To conclude the programme, the delegation visited renowned design houses, including OPEN YY and Post Archive Faction.

Berlin Fashion X International is supported by a state programme financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and funds from the State of Berlin.