Local and foreign journalists are busy writing stories at the International Media Center (IMC) at the COEX center in southern Seoul, Monday. / Korea Times

By Chung Min-uck

Around 1,400 foreign media representatives had gathered in Seoul as of Monday to participate in the 2012 nuclear summit, providing Korea an opportunity to boost its image through high-quality services and the introduction of advanced information technology as well as unique cultural assets.

The summit offers services to correspondents from all over the world in 11 different languages including English, French, Arabic and Chinese at the International Media Center (IMC) located on the first floor of COEX where the international summit is taking place.

It also provides foreign correspondents with rental services for smartphones and other equipment necessary.

Inside the IMC, there are locations ready to catch the attention of foreigners attending the diplomatic event.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government has prepared a booth to promote the host city. There are three different sections that shows Seoul’s past, present and future.

It also introduces the ubiquitous computing network system in the capital’s Gangnam district where people can freely and safely check their health anytime, anywhere by utilizing the nation’s advanced information technology.

Next to it is a booth that presents the nuclear security conditions and nuclear energy development achievements of Korea.

Wireless telecommunications service provider KT set up an exclusive booth to promote its global roaming services.

There are also several cultural spots to get a glimpse of Korean traditional culture.

The summit has also prepared a tour program for foreign journalists and other visitors to Gangnam free of charge during the summit.

While foreign journalists appear to appreciate the efforts they complained about the timetabling of some events.

“The organization is impressive and really helpful. The facilities and everything are also good overall,” said Omar Achy, 43, of Maghreb Arab Press from Morocco.

“Unfortunately I didn’t have time to look around those booths. We (foreign correspondents) are quite busy and to have a tour during the two days of the summit is a little bit difficult to take part. It’s hard for me to do the job and make a visit at the same time. I would prefer them to take place after the main event,” said Achy.

“I don’t have time to look through them (locations where they introduce Korean technology and culture) due to my busy work. To be honest it’s quite useless to me,” said Ed Peefayot, 32, a cameraman for Associated Press Television News from Thailand.