[THE INVESTOR] Co-working space firm WeWork announced on Dec. 3 that it plans to open a new office in Bunsan, next year -- its first location outside of Seoul.The new WeWork space, scheduled to open in April, will occupy six floors of the Hyundai Card Busan building in Seomyeon area. Built in 2017, the credit card firm’s building is widely known for its sleek design and great amenities. It is equipped with diverse facilities such as a lounge and a projector, cafeteria and rooftop, all of which will be available for WeWork members. In addition, it is easily accessible to convenient transport options. The Seomyeon subway station (Line 1 and 2) is within walking distance and the building is just six subway stops away from Busan Station, from where you can take high-speed trains. Located in one of Korea’s largest port cities, WeWork Seomyeon will be able to offer support for firms and creators engaged in export and trade-based businesses, according to the firm. All WeWork Seomyeon members will also gain access to its 335 WeWork locations around the globe as well.“We are very grateful to expand our community beyond Seoul by being part of this dynamic city,” said WeWork General Manager Matthew Shampine.“By joining hands with Busan City to realize its vision of becoming the maritime hub of Northeast Asia, WeWork will contribute to the local community by creating jobs and global business opportunities, as well as revitalizing the startup ecosystem.” The city government also said it is betting high hopes on its partnership with the co-working space firm. “With WeWork achieving great success in Seoul, I am very much looking forward to what it will bring to ever-dynamic Busan, the maritime hub of Northeast Asia,” said Mayor Oh Keo-don. WeWork and Busan City signed an agreement on Nov. 5 to work closely in creating jobs and global business opportunities as well as revitalizing the startup ecosystem. Starting with the Seomyeon location, the company said it seeks to expand across different areas in the city.By Kim Young-won (wone0102@heraldcorp.com)
WeWork has announced plans to open an office in Busan in April, it's first South Korean centre located outside of Seoul. The co-working firm will take over six floors of the Hyundai Card Busan building, which was opened last year and is located in Seomyeon, the city’s commercial centre and transportation hub. WeWork signed an agreement with Busan City last month committing to creating jobs and business opportunities in what is one of Korea’s largest port cities.