At the southern tip of the Korean Peninsula, Geomundo and Dokdo are two islands that, despite their distance, share a historical connection through the fishermen who once relied on the sea for their livelihoods.
In observance of Dokdo Day on October 25, the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo is shedding light on the historical ties between Geomundo and Dokdo, providing an opportunity to reflect on the territorial and cultural significance of these islands.
According to the organizing committee of the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo, the Island Theme Zone at the expo showcases Dokdo along with representative islands from Korea and around the world.
Ahead of Dokdo Day, historical records of fishermen from Geomundo traveling between Ulleungdo and Dokdo have garnered attention.
Dokdo Day commemorates the proclamation of Imperial Decree No. 41 by the Korean Empire on October 25, 1900, which designated Ulleungdo and its surrounding islands, including Dokdo, as part of Uldo County. This decree is viewed as historical evidence of the Korean Empire's jurisdiction over Dokdo.
Dokdo is recognized as Korean territory from historical, geographical, and international legal perspectives. The history of Dokdo encompasses not only administrative jurisdiction but also the activities of fishermen who traversed the waters for their livelihoods.
During the reign of King Sukjong of Joseon, Ahn Yong-bok is known for asserting Korea's sovereignty during disputes with Japanese fishermen operating near Ulleungdo and Dokdo.
In the 1950s, the Ulleungdo residents organized the Dokdo Volunteer Defense Corps to protect the island.
The relationship between Dokdo and fishermen from the southern coast is also documented in historical records.
In 1882, Lee Gyu-won’s records of Ulleungdo mention people from Jeolla Province engaged in logging and fishing activities there.
Additionally, records left by Geomundo resident Kim Byeong-soon indicate that he harvested seaweed and caught otters around Dokdo.
These examples illustrate that what is now perceived as a distant journey to Ulleungdo and Dokdo was once a vital area for the livelihoods of southern coast fishermen.
Notably, the fact that residents of Geomundo and Chodo engaged in fishing activities between Ulleungdo and Dokdo suggests that these islands were not isolated but rather part of an interconnected living space accessible by sea.
The Yeosu World Island Expo has established the Island Theme Zone to promote the history and culture accumulated around islands and the sea.
This zone introduces the natural environments and cultural characteristics of representative islands from both domestic and international locations, allowing visitors to compare the features of various islands.
In the section dedicated to Korean islands, visitors can explore Dokdo, several islands from Yeosu, as well as Gapado in Jeju and Cheongsando in Wando, Jeollanam-do.
The expo highlights the historical significance of Dokdo while also showcasing the natural landscapes, cultural practices, and tourism resources of each region's islands.
The section introducing islands from around the world features notable locations such as Chile's Easter Island, Madagascar with its unique ecosystems, the Azores in Portugal, and the Maldives in the Indian Ocean.
Visitors can compare Korean islands with those from around the globe, observing the diverse lifestyles and ecological characteristics shaped by geographical environments.
This year's Dokdo Day serves not only to emphasize the territorial significance of the islands but also to reflect on the realities faced by domestic island regions struggling with population decline, aging, and climate change.
Islands are not only spaces that constitute maritime territory but also the homes where residents have lived for generations. To ensure the sustainability of island regions, a comprehensive approach is needed that includes environmental conservation, improving living conditions, and preserving cultural practices.
The organizing committee aims to raise social awareness of the future value of island regions by promoting the nature, history, and culture of islands through this expo.
Kim Jong-ki, Secretary General of the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo Organizing Committee, stated, "On Dokdo Day, I hope this expo serves as a reminder of the significance of our islands and fosters continued warm interest in them."
The history of Geomundo fishermen traveling to Dokdo illustrates that islands are not merely isolated spaces but vibrant areas where people, goods, and culture have exchanged hands.
As we observe Dokdo Day, it is crucial to consider whether revisiting the history of our islands will lead to a reflection on the present and future of island regions.
Meanwhile, the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo, themed "Islands, Connecting the Sea and the Future," opened on September 5 and will run until November 4 at the Jinnam District of Yeosu, the Yeosu World Expo site, and the surrounding areas of Gaedo and Geumo Island. The expo features exhibitions and experiential programs showcasing the ecology, culture, history, and future value of islands from both domestic and international perspectives.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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