AIPH celebrates international cooperation and strengthens ties with Korean horticultural leaders at International Horticulture Goyang Korea 2025.
For more than 30 years, the city of Goyang in South Korea has celebrated the beauty, importance, and joy of plants through its world-renowned flower festival. Now officially recognised by AIPH, the International Horticulture Goyang Korea 2025 (IHK2025) brings this proud tradition to a new global stage. Running from now until 11 May, under the vibrant theme “Flower, Fantasy, and Fragrance,” the 17-day festival invites visitors from around the world to experience the harmony of nature and culture in full bloom.
AIPH Presence at the Opening Ceremony
To mark the opening of this AIPH-approved event, AIPH Vice President Dr Holly Peng and Board Member Mr Youfei Wang – representing Region VII and the China Flower Association – joined the official activities in Goyang on Friday, 25 April.
Dr Peng participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony and visited the Yangjae Flower Market — home to the AIPH Member Korea Flower Cultivate Association (KFCA). There, the delegation met with Mr Lim Yuk-Taek, President of KFCA, members of the KFCA, and the Secretary General of the Korean Floristry Association. They also engaged in discussions with senior representatives from the Taean International Horticultural-Healing Expo 2026 Organising Committee, preparing for the next AIPH-approved Expo in South Korea.
A New Chapter in International Collaboration
Recognising the importance of building strong international partnerships, AIPH formalised a new Cooperation Partnership Agreement with Goyang International Flower Foundation (GIFF). The agreement, signed by Dr Holly Peng on behalf of AIPH and Mr Chung Heungkyo, President of GIFF, underscores a shared commitment to strengthening global flower exhibitions, encouraging knowledge exchange, and supporting the sustainable growth of the ornamental horticulture sector.
Industry Reflections and Future Impact
Reflecting on the experience, Dr Peng praised IHK2025’s outstanding organisation, welcoming atmosphere, and effective cross-sector collaboration. She noted that with AIPH’s active involvement in boosting international participation, the Expo is ideally positioned to enhance its global profile and inspire broader environmental awareness.
“International exhibitions like IHK2025 play a vital role in connecting people to the value of plants and flowers, and in promoting sustainable growth across the global horticultural industry. Through partnerships like this, we can expand international participation, share knowledge, and inspire future generations.”
– Tim Briercliffe, AIPH Secretary General
AIPH remains proud to work alongside its Members and partners worldwide, championing the power of plants and celebrating the essential role of horticulture in enhancing lives and shaping a more sustainable future.
Korean Floriculture: A Sector in Transition
South Korea’s horticultural trade is thriving. In 2023, cut flowers and live plants exports reached €56.2 million, while imports stood at €11.5 million. The Korean floriculture sector continues to stand strong regionally, with cut flowers, pot plants, and flowering trees covering more than 2,700 hectares, according to the latest AIPH and Union Fleurs International Statistics. As consumer interest shifts toward potted plants, indoor greenery, and lifestyle gardening, events like IHK2025 play an increasingly vital role in promoting plants to a broader, urban-focused audience and reinforcing the timeless value of flowers and horticulture for future generations.
