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Yeosu set to showcase World Island Exhibition next year

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By Lee Hae-rin
  • Published KST
An aerial view of Gae Island near Yeosu, South Jeolla Province / Courtesy of South Jeolla Provincial Government

An aerial view of Gae Island near Yeosu, South Jeolla Province / Courtesy of South Jeolla Provincial Government

Preparations are underway in Yeosu, South Jeolla Province, as the southwestern port city readies to host the world’s first government-backed international island exhibition next year.

The 2026 Yeosu World Island Exhibition, set to run next year from Sept. 5 to Nov. 4, will be the first of its kind to focus on the diverse cultures and economic, environmental and historical significance of islands under the theme “Islands, Connecting the Sea and the Future.”

Known for its beautiful coastal scenery, Yeosu has one of Korea’s most famous island clusters featuring 365 islands.

Eight major exhibition halls, including the landmark theme hall and island marine ecology hall, are under construction at the main venue on Dol Island's Jinmo area, with additional facilities for island-themed outdoor performances and eco-friendly city gardens also underway.

Visitors will be able to experience the region’s natural wonders and participate in hands-on island living at event venues on Geumo Island and Gae Island, complete with camping, trekking and local food and culture experiences.

A highlight of the exhibition program will be the island theme zone, which offers interactive media art, advanced air mobility showcases and immersive exhibitions capturing the environments, cultures and cutting-edge technologies of islands around the world.

Spectators can enjoy diverse programs — from walking eco-trails and “plogging,” where participants pick up garbage while walking — for environmental conservation to sampling regional specialties on seaside cruises.

Participants from over 13 countries, including the Philippines, Palau, Peru, Japan, East Timor, Greece, Vietnam, France, Senegal and Madagascar, have confirmed their attendance. Organizers intend to invite 23 additional nations, and are targeting partnerships with global organizations including the World Health Organization Asia-Pacific Centre for Environment and Health and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

The event will also feature series of academic forums, art performances and cultural events as the city plans to become a global hub for sustainable island innovation.