Our History

Established in 1992 by Mr. Bart Hellemans under The Belgian Club, the Belgian Korean Business Forum has seen its activities evolving, shifting from a social club to a non-profit organization that strives to support its members’ academic, cultural, and business interests in Korea.

Today, the Belgian Korean Business Forum closely collaborates with other chambers of commerce in Asia, the Embassy of Belgium in Korea, and other chambers of commerce in Korea to represent the Belgian community and other nationals who wish to become key players in the Belgium-Korea relationships.

1992

The Belgian Club is established

Mr. Bart Hellemans establishes the Belgian Club, a social club to gather Belgians in Korea.

1998

Rebranding of the Belgian Club as the Belgian Korean Business Forum

The Belgian Korean Business Forum as we know it today, including the logo, is launched.

2003


The BKBF rises from the ashes

Under the initiative of the former Ambassador, Mr. Jean-­Luc Kebers gives the BKBF a second life: 43 paying members, variety of events, etc.

2010

Introduction of the BKBF classic: Summer BBQ

2012

Introduction of the second BKBF classic: Spring Moules Frites

Wishing to bring a little bit of Belgium in Korea, the Belgian Korean Business Forum launched its second BKBF classic: The Spring Moules Frites.

A Belgian dinner for those who would like to taste Belgian cuisine and meet with the Belgian community in Korea.

May 2019

Support of the State mission to Korea

During the Belgium State mission to Korea, the Belgian Korean Business Forum, together with its friends and members, supported the different initiatives of the Belgian and Korean communities.

December 2021

Asian Chambers Memorandum of Understanding

On 16 December 2021, the Belgian Korean Business Forum concluded a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with more than 10 other BeLux & EuroCham Chambers in Asia. This MoU is the next step in our ever-increasing pan-Asian collaboration and serves to provide more benefits to our members.

2023 Seoul Friendship Festival

For the third consecutive year, the Belgian Korean Business Forum actively took part in the Seoul Friendship Festival, showcasing the vibrant essence of Belgium through its rich colors and delectable culinary traditions.

Past presidents

Past committee members

Our Mission