Thursday, 27 April 2017

On April 27, DBCK and Heineken Korea organized a Kingsday party to celebrate the King’s 50th birthday. A Dutch national anthem sing-a-long and a beer-tap Masterclass were provided by our host Heineken for creating a genuine Kingsday mood. Thank you all for participating and contributing to this event. 

Thursday, 20 April 2017

On April 20, DBCK organized its second brown bag lunch seminar.  During this event, Ms. Youngjoo Kim, Managing Director of TMF Korea, shared practical local compliance tips with the 20 people audience. The presentation contained insights on various questions foreign entities operating in Korea have with regards to the most recent tax amendments, types of resident (local) tax, statutory audits and e-tax invoices. After her presentation Ms. Kim happily answered any remaining questions from the attendees.

Tuesday, 17 January 2017

Mrs. Corinne Vigreux, Co-Founder & Managing Director of Consumer Business Unit of Dutch consumer electronics company TOMTOM joined the DBCK for lunch and shared her knowledge and experience in business trends in Asia and challenges ahead for consumer electronics business. Click here for more pictures of the event

26-29 September 2016

Official visit of the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, H.E. Mr. Mark Rutte, accompanied by the Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Martijn van Dam and the Netherlands Trade Mission to the Republic of Korea.

Tuesday, 27 September 2016

On the occasion of the visit of the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mr. Mark Rutte, accompanied by the Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Martijn van Dam and the Netherlands trade mission to the Republic of Korea, the Netherlands-Korea Trade Dinner was organized by the Netherlands Embassy in Seoul at the Shilla Hotel, Seoul. Around 270 guests were present to this event and 13 MoU’s were signed by Dutch companies/organizations and their Korean counterparts during the course of the dinner. 18 DBCK members have joined the dinner and had opportunities for networking with the members of Dutch trade mission and their Korean business partners.

Wednesday, 28 September 2016

On 26, 27, 28 and 29 September, the Netherlands’ Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, together with a large business delegation, visited South Korea. Part of the visit included donating 220 bicycles to the city. Bicycles are a common point of interest that both the Netherlands and the city of Seoul have. Therefore, the Dutch Embassy came up with the initiative to donate bicycles to the Seoul Metropolitan Government to use in its Public Bike Rental System. The bicycles will have orange accents and will have the logo of the company that donated the bike and a symbol combining ‘Seoul Bike’ Logo and Dutch National Flag. The bicycles were donated by the support of the Dutch business community in South Korea. On behalf of the board we would like to thank the following parties for their donation:

ING Bank Seoul NV (75)
Philips (50)
Akzonobel (40)
ASML (20)
DSM (10)
Shell (10)
KLM (10)
TMF (4)
DBCK (1)

Thursday, 3 September 2015
DBCK-HAMEL Season-opening Drinks

On the occasion of the opening of the season 2015.16, DBCK and HAMEL (Dutch social club) hosted a casual drinks at the Dutch Ambassador’s residence.

Friday, 22 May 2015
DBCK Golf Tournament: Dutch Open 2015

The annual DBCK Golf Tournament, Dutch Open 2015 took place on Friday, 22nd May at the Lakeside Country Club in Yongin.

DBCK members and their business partners made 8 flights in total and played golf together, followed by an outdoor BBQ. With the support of our generous sponsors, several prizes were awarded.

Tuesday, 12 May 2015
Company visit Air France/ KLM

DBCK members visited the Air France/ KLM redesigned office downtown Seoul. Commercial Director, Mr. Yu-Ming Sie, gave some insights in the dynamic competitive airline market of Korea, the role of social media in better servicing their customers and the future of Air France/ KLM in Korea. A interesting evening for DBCK members who are taking often the airplane which ended in a small quiz with prices.

Thursday, 15 January 2015

HSpecial Breakfast Lecture by Dutch Minister Jeroen Dijsselbloem

On the occasion of the visit of Mr.  Jeroen Dijsselbloem, President of Euro Group and Finance Minister of the Netherlands, IGE (Institute for Global Economics) together with KITA (Korea International Trade Association) organized a special breakfast lecture on 15 January 2015 at the Westin Chosun Hotel, where 16 DBCK members have attended.

Thursday, 8 January 2015
DBCK New Year’s Reception

Celebrating the beginning of new year, DBCK together with HAMEL (Dutch social club) and Ambassador Lody Embrechts hosted a reception at the residence of Dutch Ambassador in Seoul, where more than 70 guests attended.

Farewell drinks for Ambassador & Mrs. Menkveld

After over four years of posting in Korea, Ambassador Paul Menkveld and his wife Anna left the country. By means of the regular Dutch Drinks taking place on every 2nd Thursday of the month, DBCK together with HAMEL (Dutch social club) bid farewell to the Ambassador Menkveld and his wife.

Tuesday, 2 December 2014
DBCK seminar on HR developments & issues in Korea: “A Legal Opinion of Kim & Chang

DBCK organized a mini-seminar on HR developments and issues in Korea, at the residence of Netherlands Ambassador in Seoul, together with the labor lawyers of Kim & Chang.

The seminar consisted of two sessions on 1) termination of employments and 2) anti-corruption and compliances with a short coffee break in between. After each presentation by the HR legal experts, an interactive platform was provided Q&A’s with the participants.

Monday 3 November 2014
Netherlands-Korea Economic Networking Reception
On the occasion of the visit of Dutch Parallel Economic Mission to Korea led by Dutch Minister of Economic Affairs, Mr. Henk Kamp.

3rd-4th November 2014

State visit to the Republic of Korea of His Majesty King Willem Alexander of the Netherlands and His Majesty Queen Maxima.

Thursday, 4 September 2014
DBCK/ HAMEL Season-opening drinks

On the occasion of the opening of the season 2014/15, DBCK and HAMEL (Dutch social club) hosted a casual drink at the Dutch Ambassador’s residence.

Thursday, 29 May 2014
HDBCK Golf Tournament: Dutch Open 2014

The annual DBCK Golf Tournament, Dutch Open 2014 took place on Thursday, 29th May at the Lakeside Country Club in Yongin.

DBCK members and their business partners made 12 flights in total and played golf together, followed by an outdoor BBQ. With the support of our generous sponsors, several prizes were awarded.

Wednesday, 12 March 2014
Hamel Trade Awards Dinner 2014
Together with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Seoul, DBCK organized the Hamel Trade Awards Dinner 2014 on Wednesday, 12 March 2014 at The Plaza Hotel, Seoul.

For the 2014 Award, four companies have been nominated by the members : Heineken Korea, Vopak Terminals Korea, VAF Instruments and Dockwise Korea. The combined opinions of the jury members led to the selection of two companies : VAF Instruments and Heineken Korea. Both companies were present at award ceremony.

The Winners of Hamel Trade Awards 2014 were announced during the ceremony at the dinner: the best performing Dutch company in Korea has been won by Heineken Korea. And the prize for best Korean company in the Netherlands went to Hyundai Engine Korea.

The evening was attended by 69 guests, mostly DBCK members, but also representatives from Dutch companies, the sustainability experts of the Amsterdam municipality, who happened to be in Seoul for a visit, as well as numerous Korean alumni from Dutch universities.

The guest of honor, Mr. Ha, Tae-youk, Director-General for European Affairs of the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, delivered a congratulatory speech.

Thursday, 20 February 2014
DBCK Discussion Evening

DBCK organized a Discussion Evening on ‘One Year President Park : Korea’s Economic Policies and Business Climate’ on Thursday, 20 February 2014, at the residence of Netherlands Ambassador in Seoul.

The first speaker, Mr. Simon Mundy, Financial Times correspondent in Seoul, shed light on the pros and cons of President Park’s economic policies. He thinks the future course of the Korean economy is rather difficult to predict because it hugely dependends on outside factors due to its exports (manufactured goods) and imports (natural resources). The President has made many a promise and financing them all is likely to be difficult, while her policies may not be focused enough on the long-term.

The second speaker, Mr. Christoph Heider, Secretary General of the European Chamber of Commerce in Korea, examined the business climate under the current Korean government. Christoph, among others, expressed concern about the way the Korean Tax Service tries to increase government revenues by scrutinizing foreign companies in Korea. The much needed restructuring of the Korean economy is hampered by a plethora of ministries and government agencies, which sometimes have conflicting interests and contrary actions.

Mr. Peter Underwood, Senior Partner at the IRC business consultancy firm, was the moderator of the evening.

After a break for a buffet-dinner, a plenary discussion of some 45 minutes concluded the evening. Many of the 35 DBCK members thought the presentations and the discussion to be both most informative and very witty.

Thursday, 9 January 2013
New Year’s Reception

Celebrating the beginning of new year, DBCK together with HAMEL (Dutch social club) and Ambassador Paul Menkveld hosted a reception at the residence of Dutch Ambassador in Seoul, where more than 70 guests attended.

Tuesday, 26 November 2013
DBCK workshop  

DBCK organized a workshop on < Sustainability in Business : How to implement this within your company in Korea> on Tuesday, 26th November 2013 at Cafe & Lounge ‘Berlin’ in Itaewon.

After a short presentation by Mr. Hong Lee, CEO of Control Union Certifications Korea, the group discussion has followed where the participants could share ideas and opinions on the topic.

At this workshop, 2 members of BKBF (The Belgian-Korean Business Forum) joined other than 16 members of DBCK.

Friday 6 September 2013
DBCK/HAMEL Season-Opening Drinks

On the occasion of the opening of the season 2013/14, DBCK and HAMEL (Dutch social club) hosted a casual drink at the Dutch Ambassador’s residence.

Thursday, 22 August 2013
DBCK mini-workshop

DBCK organized a mini-workshop with Mr. Peter A. Underwood, senior partner of IRC Ltd., on < Doing Business in Korea: Challenges Ahead> on Thursday, 22nd August 2013.

Mr. Underwood, as a specialist in business strategy development & implementation and Korean market entry, shared his in-depth knowledge of Korean industry and business culture.

This workshop has also provided with an interactive platform for the participants to share their opinions, ideas and strategies on how to best tackle the future challenges to doing business and managing a company in Korea.

After the workshop, a simple dinner and drinks followed.

Monday 10 June 2013
DBCK Golf Tournament, Dutch Open 2013

The annual DBCK Golf Tournament, Dutch Open 2013 took place on Monday, 10th June at the Lakeside Country Club in Yongin.

DBCK members and their business partners and friends made 15 flights in total and played golf together, followed by an outdoor BBQ. With the support of our generous sponsors, several prizes were awarded.

Group Picture at Dutch Open 2013

Monday 11 March 2013
Special Evening with Mr. Frans Weekers, Vice Minister for Finance of the Netherlands 

On March 11th, more than 34 members of DBCK spent a special evening with Mr. Frans Weekers, Vice Minister for Finance of the Netherlands at in Itaewon.

At his speech, Mr. Weekers told about his program in Korea and touched upon the current developments in the Netherlands and Europe in light of his broad and long experience in political and financial career. After his speech, a Q&A session and a buffet dinner followed.

Thursday, 7 February 2013
Heineken Evening 

There was a casual beer evening organized on Thursday, 7 February 2013 at the recently relocated office of Heineken Korea, where more than 40 guests attended.

Mr. Jan Arie Smit, general manager of Heineken Korea, gave an interesting presentation about Heineken branding in Korea followed by a draught beer pouring training.

Tuesday, 8 January 2013

Celebrating the beginning of new year of black snake, DBCK together with HAMEL (Dutch social club) and Ambassador Paul Menkveld hosted a reception at the residence of Dutch Ambassador in Seoul, where more than 70 guests attended.

Friday, 2 November 2012
DBCK trip to Busan & Geoje
– Visit to BNCT (Busan New Container Terminal) & SHI (Samsung Heavy Industries)

20 members joined the DBCK trip to Busan & Geoje on 2 November. The visit consisted of the visit to BNCT (Busan New Container Terminal) in the morning and the visit to Samsung Heavy Industries in Geoje in the afternoon, where a mega project is going on with Shell to build the world-largest floating LNG platform.

In the evening the Dutch Embassy in Korea hosted a reception with Dutch community in the area to strengthen the ties with Busan area on the occasion of DBCK visit to Busan & Geoje.

Pictures can be watched via :
http://photobucket.com/DBCK_trip_Busan_2012/

Friday, 14 September 2012
DBCK/HAMEL Season-Opening Reception

On the occasion of the opening of the season 2012/13, DBCK and HAMEL (Dutch social club) hosted a casual reception at the Dutch Ambassador’s residence, where more than 80 people attended.

Tuesday 19 June 2012
End-of-Season BBQ together with Netherlands Economic Mission to Korea

The end-of-season BBQ took place at the Ambassason 19 June 2012, where more than 80 people attended.

At this event, there were special guests, namely the Netherlands’ Economic Mission to Korea. And Mr. Marten van den Berg, Deputy Director General for International Relations from the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Innovation also joined.

Tuesday 29 May 2012
DBCK Golf Tournament  : Dutch Open 2012 

The annual DBCK Golf Tournament, Dutch Open 2012 took place on 29 May at the Lakeside Country Club in Yongin.

DBCK members and their business partners and friends made 14 flights in total and played golf together, followed by a outdoor BBQ. With the support of our generous sponsors, several prizes were awarded.

Wednesday 28 March 2012
Netherlands-Korea Trade & Investment Dinner (Hamel Trade Award ceremony)

On the occasion of the visit of H.E. Dr. Uri Rosenthal, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, the Dutch Business Council Korea (DBCK) and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands organized a Netherlands-Korea Trade & Investment Dinner at the Westin Chosun Hotel on the 28th March 2012.

More than 150 guests are attended to this event. The dinner provided a unique opportunity to Korean and Dutch businessmen to expand their network and deepen existing contacts.

The winners of the Hamel Trade Awards are announced and the awarding ceremony was held; Control Union Certifications Korea (best successful Dutch company in Korea) and STX Haevy Industries (best Korean investor to the Netherlands) were awarded.

And a number of Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) were signed between Dutch and Korean organizations/companies.

Wednesday 7 March 2012

Special Evening with Mr. Wim Kok
On March 7th, 33 DBCK members spent a very special evening with Mr. Wim Kok, former Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands at the Netherlands Ambassador’s residence.

In his speech, Mr. Kok touched upon the developments in social economy and political leadership. Q&A session and the buffet dinner followed after the speech.
Wednesday 15 February 2012

Wine Tasting at ChikoVino restaurant

One of long term DBCK members, Mr. Jack Damen, offered to organize a dinner and wine-pairing event in his recently opened Chiko Vino restaurant in Itaewon.

About 14 people participated to this event and during the 4-course dinner various wines, properly paired, were tasted and explained by Jack.

It was a tasteful and fun event where people could pick up some interesting details on wine!

Tuesday 10 January 2012
New Year’s Reception

Monday 21 November 2011
Special Evening with Mr. Nout Wellink (former president of De Nederlandsche Bank)
On the occasion of the visit of Mr. Nout Wellink, the former president of De Nederlandsche Bank to Korea, the DBCK organized a special evening with him at the Netherlands Ambassador’s residence.

In his speech, Mr. Wellink touched upon the current developments in Europe in light of  his broad and long experience in the financial markets. Q&A session and the buffet dinner followed after the speech.

Wednesday 19 October 2011
Company visit to Incheon International Airport Corporation
On October 19th a small group of the DBCK visited Incheon International Airport Corporation(IIAC).

After an introduction about IIAC by Mina Choi, Director of International Relations, the DBCK members got a tour to interesting sites of the airport such as automated immigration system, mock-up booth at the new terminal, maglev train and the ice rink.

Thursday 15 September 2011
Lecture by Tim Condon

On September 15th, Mr. Tim Condon, ING Asia Head of research, gave a presentation titled ” The Current Crisis : How we got here and Where we are going” at the conference room of the embassy from 17:00 to 18:30.

Tim Condon provided with the updates on the current world financial system that is experiencing a lot of turmoil by the downgrade of the US sovereign credit rating and the continuation of the Europen sovereign crisis, and showed his view on the opportunities and potential pitfalls for Korea.

Thursday 15 September 2011
DBCK Season opening drinks

Friday 17 June 2011
Company visit to Bosch Korea and KIA Motors

Thursday 9 June 2011
DBCK End-of-Season BBQ

Monday 16 May 2011
DBCK Dutch Open 2011

(For photos, please click here!) 

Wednesday 02 March 2011
Tour to DMZ & JSA

Friday 03 December 2010
DBCK Wine Tasting at Buon Posto

(For photos, click here!)

Thursday 28 October 2010
GM Daewoo Visit

Thursday 30 September 2010
DBCK Season-Opening BBQ

Thursday 10 June 2010
DBCK End-of-Season BBQ with Korean partners

Monday 17 May 2010
DBCK Dutch Open (Golf tournament) at Blue Heron

Thursday 18 February 2010
Briefing on Korea-EU FTA at EU Delegation

Thursday 26 November 2009
DBCK trip to Crucell’s new plant in Incheon

Thursday 22 October 2009
DBCK Event with Grey Worldwide Korea

Thursday 10 September 2009
DBCK Opening-Of-Season BBQ

Wednesday 10 June 2009
DBCK End-Of-Season BBQ

Monday 18 May 2009
DBCK Dutch Open 2009

Thursday 09 April 2009
DBCK Trip to DHL

Wednesday 04 March 2009
Korean Friends of the DBCK

The first edition of the Korean Friends of the DBCK (KFOD) was held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel on March 4, 2009. With around 100 participants, this event offered a great opportunity to the DBCK members and their business partners to strengthen their friendship and promote their future cooperation. Following the welcome address by the Chairman of the DBCK, Dr. Gus Garita, Lead Economist at the Bank of Korea, gave an insightful presentation about Korean economy. Also, the Hamel Trade Award was jointly held as part of this KFOD event – Crucel/Berna Biotech Korea won the Most Steadfast Dutch Company in Korea and the Most Successful Korean Company in the Netherlands went to JVM Co. Ltd., one of the leading medical equipment producers. As a special feature of this event, each participant received “KFOD Facebook” which contains information of other participating companies, specially designed to facilitate the expansion of Korea-Netherlands network.

Please click here for KFOD photos.

Thursday 15 January 2009
New Year’s Drink

More than 30 members have joined the first DBCK event in 2009 on Thursday 15 January. A New Year’s drink was held in the Grand Hyatt hotel.

During this event the chairman said goodbye to the board members Jean-Paul van Hengstum and Joost van Beveren. The other changes in the board were: Rogier van Beugen became the new treasurer and Olivier Kerckhoff was appointed vice chairman.

Furthermore Victor van Solinge briefed the members about the new event Korean Friends of the DBCK, which will be held on March 5.Thursday 27

November 2008
Wine Tasting at Chiko Vino

Chiko Vino offered our members an evening of wine and cheese tasting. About 13 members gathered in the Chiko Vino shop in Yeoido. Jack started with a presentation about wine in general and how the process of wine tasting works. After that we could taste 11 different wines, and enjoyed different kinds of cheese imported from Holland.

During this evening we also said goodbye to our board member Jean-Paul van Hengstum who will return to Europe.

We like to thank our members Jasmin and Jack for this very tasting event.

Monday 3 November 2008

Visit of BAT factory
On November 3 a small group of the DBCK visited BAT factory in Sacheon. The flight to Jinju was already scheduled at 07.30 am, so the participants gathered at Gimpo airport at 6.45 am.

After an introduction about BAT Global by Richard Bakker, a presentation about Corporate Social Responsibility and an introduction about the daily operation of the factory,we headed for a well prepared lunch. After the lunch the DBCK members got a tour through the factory to experience the cigarette production process.

Before flying back to Seoul, the participants enjoyed a tour through the Aerospace Park. The Board of the DBCK would like to thank our member Richard Bakker for organizing this interesting event.

Wednesday 27 August 2008

DBCK 2008-2009 Season Opening Drink
The DBCK season opening drink, the first gathering of the season 2008-2009 was held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel on Wednesday 27 August.

Approximately 40 members enjoyed the buffet and the drinks. During the evening the board presented an overview of last years’ financial results and its plans for the coming season. Coming events will be a visit to the BAT factory in October and the Hamel Award party in November. For further information please keep visiting www.dbckorea.com.

Tuesday 17 June 2008
End of Season Barbecue
The DBCK end of season barbecue, the last gathering of the season 2007-2008 was held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel on Tuesday 17 June.

DBCK had the pleasure of the company of Mr. Jan Kees de Jager, the state secretary of the Dutch Ministry of Finance, and guests from the Ministry of Finance and, Economic Affairs.

Thursday 22 May 2008
Dutch Open
The annual DBCK Dutch Open Golf event was held at the beautiful Blue Heron Golf Club.

13 flights of members and their guests enjoyed a wonderful afternoon of golfing with superb weather conditions.

Last years winners VOPAK did not manage to maintain their trophy, this year the prize going to the ING Life 3 team.  Mr. Brandon Woo from Irdeto managed to be the best individual score. Mrs. Suzanne Han got the prize for best female.

Many thanks to our sponsors for the day KLM, Heineken, Philips & Michelin. Balls were again provided by VOPAK.

24 April 2008
Visit to Gaeseong Industrial Complex
DBCK visited the Gaeseong Industrial Complex, a unique industrial area in North Korea on Thursday 24 April. A group of 25 people was guided by Gaeseong Industrial District Management Committee and GIC support foundation. The program included presentations on current status and future plans of GIC, area development of Hyundai Asan, guided tour of GIC facilities and factory visit.

It was a great opportunity for members to see how South and North Korea co-operate and outcomes generated from this co-operation.

Thursday 3 April 2008
Lotte World Behind the Scene

On April 3^rd a small group of the DBCK visited LotteWorld amusement park.
After an introduction about the Lotte complex at the LotteWorld academy the DBCK members got a tour through the park.
After witnessing the Parade we went to the maintenance area of the trains for the French Connection. There we received an explanation about the maintenance procedures and safety issues for this biggest roller coaster at LotteWorld.
The Pharaoh’s fury, the newest attraction, was tried and enjoyed by the members. After this journey through Egypt there were still a few dye hard’s who made use of the “Gyro Drop”. Fall down 70 meters in 2 sec’s.
The last part of the tour was a visit to the Folk museum. A walk through the history of Korea
After the close out meeting at this museum the members went their own way.

Again an enjoyable event of the DBCK.

Thursday 28 February 2008
Lunch meeting with Mr. Bongsoo Jung

More than 20 members have joined this lunch meeting with Mr. Bongsoo Jung, a certified public labour attorney and the author of the “Korean Labor Law Bible”.

Mr. Jung took us on a journey through the Korean labour law, the changes the the upcoming changes.

Wednesday 16 January 2008
New Year’s Drink and a Guided tour of the Van Gogh Exhibition

More than 30 members have joined the first DBCK event in 2008 on Wednesday 16 January. A New Year’s drink was held at the Giljy Italian restaurant followed by a guided tour of the Van Gogh Exhibition at the Seoul Museum of Art. It was a precious time to see the biggest Van gogh exhibition in Asia ever and share different views and stories behind the great master and his works.

22 November 2007

Hamel Trade Awards 2007 has chosen Shell Pacific Enterprises, ArchitectenConsort and Daedong Industrial Co., Ltd
The Hamel Trade Award 2007 has been held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Seoul on 22 November 2007. Shell Pacific Enterprises won the Best Established Dutch Company in Korea and the Best New Comer went to the ArchitentenConsort. From this year, the new category Best Korean Company investing in the Netherlands has been added to also recognize and appreciate Korean contribution to the trade and investment between the Netherlands and Korea. Daedong Industrial Co., Ltd became the first winner of this award.

The Hamel Trade Award is a yearly award for excellence to a company that has contributed substantially to business and trade relations between South Korea and the Netherlands. The jury of the Hamel Trade Awards 2007 consisted of Han Rademaker (Chairman of DBCK), Hans Heinsbroek (Dutch Ambassador to Korea), Tong-Soo Chung (President of Invest Korea) and Carl-Johan Hagman (Chairman of the EUCCK)

Please click here for photos of Hamel Award Gala

Tuesday 2 October 2007
Hendrick Hamel Foundation

On 2 October Mr. Dick van Zanten and Mr. Jacques Snep, both board members of the Hendrick Hamel foundation from the Netherlands gave a presentation about their plans for erecting a Hamel house in Gorkum and to make a movie about the life of Hendrick Hamel. Also attending was the mayor of Gorkum mr. IJssels. At the end of the evening the guests got the opportunity to enjoy a wine tasting of the Hamel Wine Company.

Tuesday 28 August 2007
DBCK 2007-2008 Season Opening Drink

On 28 August 2007 a new season started with drinks at chairman Han Rademaker’s house. Approximately 35 members were present. Special thanks goes to Lisette Jacobs, Mariska Vrakking and Jeanette Rademaker for their perfect hosting. During the evening the board presented its new board members and its plans for the coming season. Coming events will be a presentation by Dr. Melissant a lung specialist from the Netherlands, a visit to the Korean Air Maintenance facility and the Hamel Award party in November. For further information please keep visiting www.dbckorea.com.<

Wednesday 30 May 2007
Dutch Open 2007
The annual DBCK Dutch Open Golf event was held at Shinwon Golf Club.

11 flights of members and their guests enjoyed a wonderful afternoon of golfing with superb weather conditions.

Last years winners ABN AMRO did not manage to maintain their trophy, this year the prize going to the KLM 2 team.  Mr Chul Min Hah from ABN AMRO managed to be the best individual score for the second consecutive year.

Many thanks to our sponsors for the day Heinken, KLM, Philips & Mercedes Benz Korea.  Balls were again provided by Vopak.

Please click here for photos from Dutch Open.

19 March 2007
An Event with Pim Verbeek and A Bid Farewell to Max Smits

The 19th of March 2007 DBCK had the pleasure of having Pim Verbeek, head coach of the Korean National Football team, as a guest speaker. Dutchman Pim Verbeek shared his experiences during the preparation and participation of the national Korean team in the World Cups in 2002 and 2006, where he acted as assistant coach to Guus Hiddink and Dick Advocaat, and his current activities as headcoach. We thank Pim and his assistant Afshin Ghotbi for participating in this DBCK event.

Also during this evening, DBCK bid farewell to Chairman Max Smits, who will leave Korea. We wish Max all the best in his new endeavours with KLM in Suriname.

Max will be succeeded by Walter Moone, formerly Vice-Chairman and Han Rademaker, Executive Director at ING Life Insurance Korea, was appointed as the new Vice-Chairman.

12 December 2006
Hamel Trade Awards for ING Life Insurance and OTB Solar

On 12 december 2006 the Dutch companies ING Life Insurance and OTB Solar won the Hamel Trade Awards 2006 for best established company and best newcomer. The Hamel Trade Award is a yearly award for excellence to a company that has contributed substantially to business and trade relations between South Korea and the Netherlands. The jury of the Hamel Trade Awards 2006 consisted of Mr. Tong-Soo Chung, Head of Invest Korea, Mr. Jean-Jacques Grauhar, Secretary General of the EUCCK, Mr. Max Smits, Chairman of the Dutch Business Club in Korea and H.E. Hans Heinsbroek, Ambassador of the Netherlands.

The Nominees for the 2006 Hamel Award for a Company that is already well established in the South Korean market were: ING Life Insurance Korea, ASM International NV and Total Identity. Winner ING Life was established in 1989 and is currently the 4th largest life insurer in Korea servicing 900,000 customers for their financial needs. In 2006 it was rewarded with the Korea Social Contribution coporporate Award and  Korea Service Management Award in the financial service – life insurance category.

The Nominees for the 2006 Hamel Award for a company that has only recently entered the South Korean market included OTB Solar, Frico Cheese and Naco. Winner OTB Solar is a leading Dutch manufacturer of solar cell equipment. In 2006 OTB announced the successful installation of a 30 MW production line to the South-Korean solar cell manufacturing company KPE. The total annual capacity of this new production line equals the yearly power consumption of 10,000 European  households.

Please click here for photos of Hamel Award Gala

14 November 2006
Visit to LG Philips LCD Paju Plant

DBCK has visited LG Philips LCD Paju Plant together with Dutch Junior Chamber of Commerce on 14 November 2006. It was a great opportunity for both our members and Dutch Junior Chamber of Commerce to look around world class LCD production plant.  Visit included P7 and module production line tour.

13 October 2006
“The great Rembrandt” by Dr. Gary Schwartz

Dr. Gary Schwartz, one of the most renowned experts on Rembrandt in the world, gave a special lecture “The great Rembrandt” to DBCK members and guests on Friday 13 October at the Seoul Grand Hyatt Hotel. In 2006, it has been 400 years ago that Rembrandt, Holland’s greatest 17th century painter was born. The founder and webmaster of CODART (International Council for Curators of Dutch and Flimish Art) Dr. Schwartz became a Rembrandt ambassador and shared his knowledge on Rembrandt and his background and revealed secret’s behind paintings.

20 September 2006
Exploring Korea

On 20 September Mr. Don Roelofs from Shilla travel (www.shilla.nl) elaborated on his activities in Korea. Shilla travel offers package and tailor made travels to/in South and North Korea. Mr. Roelofs explained which sites are essential to visit whilst living in Korea as an expat. Furthermore, Mr. Maarten Meijer presented his book “What’s So Good about Korea, Maarten?”. Mr. Meijer touched upon some cultural differences between Korean and Western soceity. Also, Mr. Meijer gave a interesting analysis of modern Korean society.

16 September 2006

A bid farewll to a Dutch ambassador Radinck J. van Vollenhoven and Mrs. Beatrice van Vollenhoven was held on Saturday 16 September 2006. Dutch Business Club Korea and Dutch Hamel Club have handed over a nice present. We all wish all the best to Mr. and Mrs. van Vollenhoven and hope them enjoy their next posting as much as they did in Korea.

23 August 2006
Opening of the Season

On 23 August 2006 a new season started with drinks at the chairman,
Max Smits’ house. Approximately 35 members were present. Special thanks goes to the chairman, Jeanette Rademaker and Ellen Smits for their perfect hosting. During the evening the board presented its plans for the coming season. Coming events will be a presentation on Korea (by Don Roelofs and Maarten Meijer), an evening with Garry Schwartz on Rembrandt, a visit to a brewery and the Hamel Award party in December.

June 11th 2006
Season’s closing event: Hilton Hotel

After almost 3 years in the Board of the DBCK, Garry Pieters (Chairman) and Tjeerd Bosklopper (Treasurer) will be leaving Korea. Good excuse for a drink.

At this closing event of the season, Garry reiterated another year with highlights including visits to Hyundai Heavy Industries and Incheon Airport. This was also a year with even more membership participation which helped create such spectacular opportunities.

In addition, the website is popular amongst members and ‘browsers’ as evidenced by 1,000 – 1,500 hits per month. According to statistics, quite a number of CVs have been posted and circulated which resulted in a number of young Dutch and Dutch/korean people finding employment in Korea. In another ‘first’, the mug-book was appreciated by all existing and prospective members.

Garry gave a big “thank you” for the wonderful support that we continued to receive from the Embassy staff and his excellence Mr & Mrs Radinck van Vollenhoven.

Finally he introduced the new team that now includes:

Taco Stoppels (Royal Netherlands Embassy)

Joost van Beveren (Secretary – succeeds Walter Moone)

Huw Howels (Treasurer – replaces Tjeerd Bosklopper)

Walter Moone (Vice Chairman – succeeds Max Smits)

Max Smits (replaces Garry Pieters)

The evening was concluded with watching the Dutch soccer team win 1-0 from Serbia-Montenegro, a fitting and deserved close of another DBCK season.

May 30th 2006
DBCK “Dutch Open” 2006

The annual DBCK Golf open was held at the Blue Heron Golf Club. A field of 11 flights with a variety of corporate teams including ING, ABN-AMRO, Shell, Vopak, Forbo and Irdeto shot their way through a beautiful course under sunny conditions.

The event was concluded with a sumptuous dinner followed by the award and prize ceremony.

The individual winner was Mr Chul Minha (team ABN-AMRO) and the winning team was ABN-AMRO. The longest drive came from Mr John Kim (ING Life) and the nearest-to-the-pin was shot by Mr Choi Soojong (ING Life). The loosing team may well have gotten the nicest prize for a sunny day: Heineken Kegs (new in Korea).Several other prizes were won thanks to the generous donation by our sponsors (KLM, LG.Philips, Transpac, Heineken, Lotte, Hyatt, Lotte, Marriot, Moet&Chandon and Fraser Suites. Balls were provided by Vopak, ABN-AMRO, Dutch Embassy (thank you, lots of them were used).

For pictures taken by Ms Sim Sunyoung, please see <pictures>

The Blue Heron Golf Club is one of the nicest courses in terms of scenery, course design and lawn conditions. The East and West course are quite different but both equally challenging, particularly for the first-time players.

Course details:

Blue Heron Golf Club

San 11-1 Sanggu-ri

Daesin-myeon, Yeoju-gun

Gyeonggi-do

Tel: 031-884 0701-6

www.blueheron.co.kr Beatiful conditions

Winner Chul Minha – KLM BC ticket Ams
Winning Team ABN-AMRO

March/April 2006
Company visit; Incheon Airport

DBCK members were invited to a unique visit of Incheon International Airport Corp. (IIAC).

The 15 members started with a presentation by CEO Mr Lee Jae Hee, who passionately explained the 2010 vision of World Best Air Hub (World-class logistics, 2nd phase construction, Air City Development, Global culture & leadership, Strategic networking with partners).

They also got a tour and a taste of the bagage handling facilities where (in phase 1) more than 3,000 drives and 20 km of conveyors have been installed.

Finally, a smell of the tarmac (and kerosine), where they got “up close and personal” with the KLM Boeing 747-400 as it was prepared for push-off to Amsterdam.

The whole event was organised by Max Smits and Mr Lee of Air France (who actually speaks perfect English with a hint of a French accent) and a team from IIAC to whom we are very grateful. Our resident photographer Tjeerd left some really good pictures for you to browse.

March 7th 2006
Grand Hyatt Soul, Behind the Scenes
We have all been to the Grand Hyatt Hotel (some more than others) and surely enjoyed it’s luxurious atmosphere and delicious food numerous times.

Especially for DBCK members and with thanks to Mr. Henk Eijsing (Executive Assistant Manager Food & Beverage) the Grand Hyatt opened its doors for an exclusive tour. On March 7th DBCK members had a look behind the scenes of this fascinating enterprise.

January 2006
New Year’s drink, January 21st 2006 Ambassador’s Residence
Together with Ambassador and Mrs Radinck van Vollenhoven and the Board of the Dutch Club Hendrik Hamel, the Board of DBCK has the pleasure to invite its members and spouces for a New Year’s drink at the Ambassador’s Residence.

November 30th, Hyundai  HHI and HMC
A unique tour of Hyundai Heavy Industries and Hyundai Motor Company.

Thanks to Folkert Visser from BP, we were be able to get a tour of the Hyundai Shipyard and Hyundai Motor Company. About 19 of us were hosted with VIP treatment as we were picked up from Ulsan airport with the Hyundai coach.

After a short film and presentation we were taken around the yard by Folkert and Mr Lee Kee Yun. This amazing ‘city’ of ship parts, seemingly randomly placed, is the largest and most efficient in the world. In 9 docks this yard ‘churns’ out a super-ship every 5 days! The hull of the impressive FPSO (combination of storage – 9 days- and production) was in the final stages of being completed before it would be towed to the HHI Offshore site where yet another impressive number of modules were being built, to be mounted on the Hull. They included power generators, desaltation and deaeration compressors and seperators.

After an excellent Korean Kalbi lunch we were taken through the engine factory. Basically your straight forward 7 cylinder diesel engine, except a bit bigger. Cylinders the size of lift shafts and engines the size of a 3 story building!

Afterwards we got to go to Hyundai Motor Company, the largest car factory by size in the world. After a presentation by Mr. Kang Ho Don EVP Production Coordination Division, we were taken on a tour of the factory. Again, very impressive with a clean environment, just-in-time delivery and lines delivering cars in 54 to 70 seconds dependiong on the model. Interestingly, the production lines were manned by males, whyle typically the completion checks and controls were done by females. HMC produces almost 2 million cars per year, of which about 1.2 million is for export.

To complete our visit, our generous hosts offered each visitor a Hyundai Coupe model and a group picture. All in all, a great day that will be remembered as “big: big ships, big engines, big plant, big car lot and big hospitality. thanks to our gracious hosts at Hyundai.

Check here for lots of pictures

November 23rd, New Seoul Hotel
The Korean economy, outlook 2006. ING’s Tim Condon.

This was a first, a combination evening with colleagues from the BKBF (Belgian Korean Business Forum). Thanks to the initiative of Erik Versavel,  Mr. Tim Condon, Head of Research for ING Wholesale Banking was the speaker of the evening, talking about Korea’s outlook in a global context.

Tim, is based in Singapore, a well known commentator on regional economies, and served as an external advisor to the Hong Kong Institute for Monetary Research. He gained considerable exposure among investors as well as regional government officials during the Asian financial crisis when he worked for the Worldbank. Tim has published numerous studies and can frequently be seen on television.

The presentation was well received, partly because of Tim’s build up of the presentation by putting Korea in a global context, and not to forget his positive outlook.

November 14th, ING House, Amsterdam
The 2005 Hamel Trade Award.
The Dutch Business Club in Korea (DBCK) and the Royal Netherlands Embassy wish to inform you that the Hamel Trade Award 2005 for excellent performance on the Korean market has been granted to Inalfa Roof Systems and Irdeto.

The jury of the Hamel Trade Award 2005, which consisted of Mr. Alan Timblik of Invest Korea, Mr. Frans Hampsink of the EUCCK, Mr. Garry Pieters of the Dutch Business Club in Korea and H.E. Radinck J. van Vollenhoven, Ambassador of the Netherlands, decided to grant

–          the Hamel Trade Award 2005 for the company that is already well established in the South Korean market to Inalfa Roof Systems and

–          to grant the Hamel Trade Award 2005 for the company that has only recently entered the South Korean market to Irdeto.

To read the Jury report on Inalfa and Irdeto, please click the appropriate link.

For related articles please see the following links:

–Netherlands Embassy Seoul

–Ministry of Finance

–Nieuws overzicht

–Seoul Times

–JCC Holland

October 18th, Hyatt Hotel, Wim Klomp DHV

DHV and SamAn advising the government on the Kyung in Canal for shipping.
DHV and SamAn formed a consortium to conduct a feasibility study regarding the use of the Kyung-in Canal for shipping. This canal, used as drainage to combat flooding, could be extended to form a link between the Han river and Incheon Harbour thus offering even better drainage facilities as well as a canal for inland shipping. Much of the resources (containers, steel, energy, chemicals etc.) are currently shipped to Pusan, Ilsan and Gwanyang while most of the demand is in and around Seoul. Waterway transportation would offer a cheaper, environmentaly friendlier solution, as well as relieve Seoul of heavy traffic and polution.

Henk Klomp, Project Manager at DHV explained the project and challenges as well as the approach DHV took. An interesting evening that was hosted in the newly renovated business centre of the Hyatt Hotel.

October 5th, Westin Chosun, Port of Rotterdam

First DBCK event kindly hosted by the Rotterdam Port Promotion Council.

A delegation of businessmen and representatives of the Rotterdam Port Promotion Council headed by its Chairman Mr R.H. de Boer visited Korea and kindly hosted this DBCK event.

Mr Roelf de Boer (ex Minister for Transportation) spoke about the Port of Rotterdam’s current situation (largest in Europe) and its ambitions (investing $3 bln in the Maasvlakte II) and gave us an insight on his term in Dutch Politics. Notably, he also explained what initiatives the Rotterdam Economic Review Board (set up according to the Singapore model) was taking amongst others with regards to helping you moroccans get jobs.

In addition, Mr Cas van der Baan, Project Manager STC (Shipping and Transport College) was kind enough to fill us in on the initiatives for setting up a joint venture with the City of Gwangjang.

Click here for 2 pictures.

September 1st, Ambassador’s Residence

Season’s opening and welcome drink, courteousy of the Netherlands Ambassador.

The first event of the season, towelcome old and new friends, kindly hosted by his Excellency Ambassador Radinck van Vollenhoven at the Residence.

By chance, Mr Cees van der Knaap is visiting Korea on official business and has kindly offered to share some views and experiences with the DBCK members.

State Secretary for Defense Mr. Cees van der Knaap was Secretary for Defence in the first Balkenende Cabinet from 22 July 2002, a position which he now fulfils once more in the second Balkenende cabinet as of 27 May 2003Service. More…

May 31st  2005, 18:30 – 20:30

Netherlands Residence, Members & Partners

From May 28 Mr & Mrs W. Kok visited Korea, initially upon invitation of the Korea Labour Institute. However, the visit soon turned in a very busy schedule that included dinner at the Blue House, meetings with the PM, Ministers and assembly members, as well as researchers, committees and press. Mr Kok also spoke at the Global Forum for “Reinventing Government”. The tiopics for Mr Kok mostly covered the Netherlands experiences regarding Labour reforma dn the Social Dialogue, initiated in the early ’80’s and institutionalised as the “Wassenaar Akkoord”.

For Mrs Kok an equally busy program was set up that included a visit to the Raphael orphenage (Hamel Club’s charity of choice), several galeries and two ‘working lunches’ at the residence hosted by Mrs van Vollenhoven. Click here for pictures.

On Tuesday May 31st, H.E. Ambassador and Mrs van Vollenhoven kindly invited DBCK members and parners, as well as several other selected guests for a farewell reception for Mr and Mrs Kok.

The evening was a great success thanks to the gracious hosts and the relaxed atmosphere that allowed for discussions, laughs and a chance to share some ideas and views with Mr Kok’s.

Mr Wim Kok was born in September 1938 and attended Nijenrode Business School. After his carreer in several trade unions, including Chairman of the FNV and of the European Trade Union Confederation Mr Kok went in to politics.

Mr Kok was leader of the PvdA and member of the Lower House. In 1989 he became Minister of Finance and Deputy PM. From August 1994 until July 2002 he was Prime Minister.

On April 11th 2993 Mr Kok was appointed by Her Majesty as Minister of State.

May 30th  2005

DBCK “Dutch Open 2005”
The 2005 DBCK “Dutch Open” was again a great success thanks to the weather and the great spirits in which 11 teams competed for eternal honour and some great prizes generously donated by our sponsors:

KLM, LG-Philips, Transpack, Heineken, Moet Hennessy, Fraser Suites, Grand Hyatt Seoul, UTS, Hilton Hotel, Philips Electronics, ING Investment Management, Shell, ING Bank and ING Life.

The winning team was Team Interchem while the overall winner was Mr Ha Sang Yol.

Click here for more information.<

May 7th  2005

Visit to the “Secret Gardens”
A beatiful day for a visit to Changdeok-gung, often but mistakingly refered to as “the Secret Gardens”. The Palace was constructed in 1405 (King Teajong) as a secondary palace to Geongbok-gung. Although the Japanese destroyed it in 1592, it was restored in 1610 and remained a royal living quarter until the last king died there in 1926 and the last Queen of the Jeosun dinasty died in 1966.

The gardens are called secret as they are located behind the palace buildings and really meant for the royal family to recline, contemplate and study.

In olden days, about 1,000 people would live and work in the palace grounds. The whole complex is on the UNESCO World Heritage list for its harmonious design.

The visit was followed by a lunch as SanChon restaurant in Insadong which offers Korean Temple Cooking and worth re-visiting with family, friends or business partners.

The tour and lunch were kindly organised and sponsored by Mr Woo Shim of Min ITS, for which the about 30 members and families were extremely grateful.

click here to download a map and directions

May 4th  2005

“Dodenherdenking” and Commemoration of the Dead

A large crowd gathered at the War Memorial “de Molen” at Saemal Interchange, HeongSeong to attend a service of commemoration of the dead on the occasion of the 55th aniversary of the Dutch participation in the Korean War.

Wreaths and flowers were laid by H.E. Ambassador and Mrs. van Vollenhoven and Charge d’Affairs Mr. H. Koets, Mr. Cho Tae Jin Governor of HeongSeong County, ROK Army, UNCMAC, Korean Veretans, DBCK, Hamel Club and gathered guests.

After Mr Lee Ik Kyun, Liaison Officer of the Netherlands Veterans closed the ceremony, guests moved to the “Den Ouden” Monument at Samil Park.

The Organising Committy had kindly invited all guests for lunch at the County Office Building

Koninginnedag, April 30th 2005

All Dutch Nationals were invited by H.E. the Ambassador of the Netherlands
His Excellency and Mrs Radinck van Vollenhoven graciously invited Dutch Nationals and selected guests to join the celebration honouring Her Majesty’s birthday.

The afternoon and evening were extremely pleasant in a relaxed and ‘orange’ atmosphere, where Heineken and bitterballen were served to complete the Dutch experience. More…

April 21st  2005

Breakfast meeting Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Royal Dutch Embassy invited members to a breakfast meeting with Mr. Karel de Beer, Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Mr. de Beer spoke about the most recent political developments in the Netherlands, updated the members on the (re-) organisations within the Ministery and covered the latest international affairs.