Koba

KOBA

SEOUL, KOREA / 22-25 MAY

This year marked KOBA’s 29th show at the COEX Convention and Exhibition Center and ran from 22-25 May. A total of 43,905 people visited 906 exhibitors from 35 countries. Co-organised by Korea E&Ex and KOBETA (Korea Broadcasting Engineers & Technicians Association), KOBA was a unique opportunity to experience innovative broadcasting solutions first hand and check out the local audio and lighting market. The show was split into three parts: professional audio and lighting equipment, post production and distribution and production and broadcasting equipment. The professional audio hall was located on the

ground floor, and featured a select few lighting stands, while the vast upper levels of the COEX focussed on broadcast, with some smaller demo rooms available. There were a lot of familiar brands on show thanks to a number of Asian distributors. Seoul based distributor, Sama Sound presented an impressive stand with well-known brands such as Shure, Allen & Heath, HK Audio, TC Electronic, K&M, Genelec, Peavey, Martin Audio, Neutrik, LEA, and Barco readily available. The lighting on offer was scarce, with at least half devoted to TV, film and photography, however, the likes of Vari-Lite, Robe and Acme were present to represent the entertainment lighting

sector. The limited lighting presence was due to Hansam and Tongsuh deciding not to exhibit this year. My first visit to KOBA did not disappoint, much like the city itself, the show was innovative and bustling with people. Although heavily broadcast based, KOBA does attract some solid brands in the audio and lighting industry, as well as offering the opportunity to catch up with the local market.

KOBA returns to the COEX Convention and Exhibition Center next year between 13-15 May. For more information, go to: www.kobashow.com