The 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo is evolving from an international event highlighting the future of islands into a platform for regional exchange, cultural harmony, and citizen participation.
According to the organizing committee on October 18, the expo site hosted visits from nearby local governments, events for foreign residents and multicultural families, and community service activities by local medical organizations.
The expo, centered on exhibitions and experiences, is expanding its scope with increased cooperation among local governments and community involvement.
On this day, Gwangyang Mayor Park Seong-hyeon visited the Yeosu World Island Expo site with local officials to tour key exhibition halls and experience facilities.
After reviewing exhibition content showcasing the history, culture, and future potential of islands, Mayor Park expressed his commitment to promoting the expo to encourage more Gwangyang residents to attend.
This visit is expected to enhance tourism and cultural exchanges between neighboring areas like Yeosu and Gwangyang, as well as increase local interest and participation in the expo.
A gathering for foreign residents and multicultural families was also organized.
Hosted by Yeosu City and coordinated by the Yeosu Family Center, the '2026 Gathering for Foreign Residents and Multicultural Families' took place at the main expo venue.
Participants explored various exhibition and experience spaces, engaging with the island's lifestyle and natural environment while fostering communication.
The event underscored the cultural diversity and coexistence that the expo aims to promote, as residents from different cultural backgrounds interacted in a single venue.
Additionally, local medical organizations conducted voluntary service activities.
The Yeosu Korean Medicine Association held a service event at the expo, offering free traditional herbal tea and herbal pouches to visitors.
The initiative aimed to introduce traditional Korean medicine and provide a moment of relaxation with a warm cup of tea.
Mayor Seo Young-hak of Yeosu also participated in the event, personally distributing herbal pouches to attendees.
With the collaboration of local government promotions, participation from multicultural families, and community service by local organizations, the expo is transforming into a venue for community exchange that goes beyond mere exhibitions.
The organizing committee plans to continue linking exhibitions, experience programs, and cultural events throughout the remaining duration of the expo, expanding opportunities for citizen and tourist participation while enhancing understanding and interest in the value of islands.
Kim Jong-ki, secretary general of the organizing committee, stated, "Just as active exchanges between islands and the mainland open new possibilities and futures for islands, we hope the Yeosu World Island Expo will serve as a platform for diverse people to meet, communicate, and understand each other's cultures."
He added, "We will strive to ensure that visitors discover the value of islands anew through exhibitions, experiences, and diverse cultural programs, creating an opportunity to envision the future of islands together."
Meanwhile, the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo, themed 'Islands, Connecting the Sea and the Future,' opened on September 5 and will run for 61 days until November 4 at the Jinnmo area of Dolsan in Yeosu, as well as the Yeosu World Expo site and the islands of Gaedo and Geumo. The organizing committee plans to continue its collaboration with the local community until the expo's conclusion, promoting the cultural value and sustainable development potential of islands.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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