FKCCI Brings a Touch of France to Seoul with Spring Networking Event at Hyundai Department Store
On May 28, the French-Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI) successfully hosted its annual Spring Networking Event at the Sky Garden of the Hyundai Department Store, Trade Center branch. Set against the striking backdrop of the Seoul skyline, the garden was transformed to evoke the charm of Paris’s iconic Tuileries Garden, offering guests an inviting space for conversation, connection, and celebration.
More than 100 distinguished guests gathered for the occasion, including leading figures from the French-Korean business community. The evening officially began with welcoming remarks from Mr. David Pierre Jalicon, Chairman of FKCCI; Mr. Bertrand Jadot, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of France in Korea; and Mr. Seungwon Lee, Executive Director of Hyundai Department Store.
In his speech, Mr. Jalicon highlighted the continued growth and resilience of the economic ties between France and Korea. He noted that the bilateral trade volume has nearly doubled over the past decade, reaching €14.5 billion, stating, “This reciprocal dynamic reinforces the strength and resilience of our bilateral economic ties.” He also emphasized the long-standing relationship between the two countries, which will mark its 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026, a year that also commemorates FKCCI’s 40th anniversary.
Mr. Jadot echoed these sentiments, describing the event as a celebration of the deep-rooted and evolving Franco-Korean partnership. He underscored the importance of the art de vivre, the French philosophy of enjoying life with elegance and quality, and praised Hyundai Department Store for its ongoing efforts in promoting French culture and lifestyle in Korea.
Adding to the opening remarks, Mr. Seungwon Lee expressed his pleasure in helping bring a touch of France, a country renowned for its romance, elegance, and refined sensibilities, to the heart of Seoul.
To enhance the atmosphere, the evening featured a live jazz performance by Junghwa Band, creating a lively and relaxed ambiance that captured the spirit of spring.
A major highlight of the evening was the much-anticipated lucky draw. Guests had the opportunity to win a range of exclusive prizes, including a dining voucher for two at Novotel Dongdaemun Gourmet Bar & Dining, a prestigious bottle of Martell Cordon Bleu Cognac from Pernod Ricard, and a Prunier Saint-James caviar gift set from France Gourmet. Other prizes included gourmet sets of K-Desserts, K-Sauces, and K-Syrups from Hyundai Department Store, eco-friendly cutlery kits from BINI, tickets to the immersive Théâtre des Lumières by TMonet, French restaurant guides in Korea, and invitations to FKCCI’s Bastille Day celebration.
More than just a networking event, the evening served as a meaningful opportunity to strengthen professional ties and celebrate the vibrant partnership between France and Korea. With its blend of elegance, culture, and business exchange, the event left a lasting impression on all who attended.
Extending the French-inspired spirit beyond the evening, ‘Le Moment de Paris’ installation at the Sky Garden of Hyundai Department Store will remain open to the public through August, offering visitors a charming taste of Paris in the heart of Seoul.
