The Korea Tourism Organization won the Best Exhibitor Award from the International Tourism Bourse, one of the world’s largest international travel trade shows held in Berlin last week, according to the state tourism agency.

The KTO booth has won the award for eight consecutive years for its creative display design and culture and tourism content.

The award was based on scores given by a team of 30 tourism professionals with the trade show, which was held from March 6-10.

At the main stage, the KTO presented traditional Korean dance performances and other hands-on programs for visitors such as mask making, and trying on the Korean traditional costume “hanbok.” The 3-D TV installed at the center of the stage enhanced the cultural experience for visitors.

The ITB has been held for 47 years and is one of the leading travel trade showsin the world. The KTO aims to promote Korean tourism to German travelers as well through the trade show.

“The number of German travelers to Korea has increased by 70 percent in the last decade, from 59,723 in 2002 to 100,000 in 2012. We look forward to seeing more tourists from Germany in the future,” said Kim Gap-su, a KTO official.

By Lee Woo-young  (wylee@heraldcorp.com)