Jeollanamdo Europe Office

Representative Office of Jeollanamdo Provincial Government of South Korea

Author: jeurope107

Suncheon Drama Filming Site Hosts Special Pet-Friendly Seollal Festival

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Traditional games, retro 70s-80s performances, and companion animal experiences create comprehensive family holiday celebration

A city representative stated: “For this Seollal holiday, we have prepared a festival space where not only parents and children but even companion animals can enjoy together. We hope visitors will spend a warm and happy holiday at the drama filming site, as if traveling back in time.”

The city of Suncheon is launching an innovative five-day Seollal holiday program at the historic Suncheon Drama Filming Site from February 14-18, 2026. The event represents a groundbreaking approach to Korean traditional celebrations by specifically accommodating families traveling with their pets alongside classic holiday activities.

Revolutionary “Petfam” Programming

The festival significantly expands programming for the growing “petfam” demographic – families who consider their companion animals full family members. Unique offerings include:

Retro Partner Experiences: Visitors can dress in matching vintage school uniforms with their dogs and explore the authentically recreated 1960s-80s alleyways together.

Creative Workshops: A dedicated DIY zone allows participants to craft custom accessories for their pets.

Professional Photography: Social media event participants receive professional black-and-white photo sessions in nostalgic styling, plus specialized “pet welcome kits.”

Cultural Programming: Nostalgia Meets Tradition

The historic Sunyang Theater will host performances throughout the holiday period, featuring:

  • Musical theater troupes performing in the nostalgic “7080” style (1970s-80s era)
  • Live emotional band concerts that evoke memories of Korea’s rapid modernization period

Multigenerational Activities

Traditional Korean games will operate continuously throughout the filming site:

  • Giant Yutnori (traditional Korean board game in oversized format)
  • Gonggi (Korean jackstones) and rubber band jumping games
  • Winter sledding experience utilizing the slopes of the recreated “Daldongne” (hillside shantytown area)

These activities are designed to offer nostalgic memories for parents while providing new entertainment for children.

Culinary Time Travel

A nostalgic food market will feature classic Korean snacks from past decades:

  • Eomuk (fish cakes) and roasted sweet potatoes
  • Dalgona (honeycomb candy) and jjondeuki (traditional chewy sweets)

The market aims to engage all five senses and complete the immersive historical experience.

Semiconductors Open the Way to a Grand Renaissance of the Gwangju–Jeonnam Special City with 4 Million Residents

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Gwangju and Jeollanam-do are jointly advancing the development of a large-scale semiconductor cluster, aiming to establish the region as a new core base of Korea’s semiconductor industry. Governor Kim Young-rok presented the vision of a “Grand Renaissance of the Gwangju–Jeonnam Special City with four million residents.”

At the heart of the initiative is a three-axis semiconductor cluster that integrates the complementary strengths of both regions and offers a sustainable alternative to the heavy concentration in the Seoul metropolitan area. The project is further supported by the recently enacted Semiconductor Special Act, which allows priority cluster designation and exemptions from preliminary feasibility studies.

Under the plan, Gwangju will serve as an innovation and talent hub, leveraging universities, research institutes, and planned testing and R&D facilities. Western Jeollanam-do will be developed as a production base, centered on the Solaseado enterprise city, supported by stable industrial water supply, large-scale renewable energy, and logistics access via Muan International Airport. Eastern Jeollanam-do will function as a convergence hub for semiconductors and AI, upgrading existing industrial clusters and linking them with advanced technologies such as batteries and physical AI.

Through this three-axis cluster, Gwangju and Jeollanam-do aim to attract global companies, create high-quality jobs, and retain young talent, positioning the region as a key driver of balanced national industrial growth.

Yeosu – Host of the UNFCCC Climate Week 2026

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The Republic of Korea has been officially selected to host the 2026 UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Climate Week, following intense international competition, the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment (MCEE) announced.

UNFCCC Climate Week is a major global event held annually ahead of the Conference of the Parties (COP), bringing together governments, international organizations, businesses, and civil society to advance global responses to the climate crisis. Rotating by region each year, Korea was confirmed on January 29 as the host of the 2026 Asia-Pacific Climate Week.

Yeosu City was selected as the host location through a nationwide public call conducted among local governments in October 2025. The event will take place over six days starting on April 20, 2026, in and around the Yeosu Expo Convention area, Jeollanamdo. Approximately 1,000 climate experts and high-level officials from Korea and abroad are expected to attend, including ministerial-level representatives from the Asia-Pacific region and the Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC.

Source: Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment

Jeonnam Agricultural Cooperative Expands Low-Cost Smart Farms to 100 New Farms

Posted by on in 2026, Agriculture, AILeave a comment

The Jeonnam Agricultural Cooperative is accelerating the large-scale expansion of low-cost smart farms, with plans to extend the program to 100 additional farms within this year. The initiative aims to increase agricultural productivity despite climate change and labor shortages.

The smart farm model significantly reduces initial investment costs and enables farmers to manage their operations more efficiently through remote monitoring, environmental control, and data-driven crop management. Particular emphasis is placed on its user-friendly system, which allows even elderly farmers to adopt digital farming technologies with ease.

The smart farm installed in Gokseong has been operating successfully since last year and is regarded as a best-practice model. With subsidies of up to 60% and additional support from local governments, farmers are required to cover only 10% of the total costs.

Through close cooperation with local governments and partner institutions, the Jeonnam Agricultural Cooperative aims to accelerate the spread of smart agriculture and strengthen the competitiveness of rural communities.

Jeollanam-do and Naju Launch “Artificial Sun – Phase 2” – Preparations Accelerate as Project Enters Key Evaluation Stage

Posted by on in 2026, Renewable Energy, Solar Energy, TechnologyLeave a comment

Naju City and Jeollanam-do Province have officially launched “Phase 2” of the Artificial Sun project, a major national initiative to establish a large-scale nuclear fusion research facility in Korea. The project has entered a critical stage, as the Ministry of Science and ICT conducts a technology feasibility assessment, the first key gateway toward full project approval.

Following the successful selection of Naju as the project site in December, the provincial and city governments have strengthened their joint implementation framework to ensure smooth progress toward passing the preliminary feasibility study. While the site selection process marked “Phase 1,” the current phase focuses on administrative procedures, land preparation, and institutional coordination.

To support this effort, Naju City has reorganized its administrative structure by establishing a dedicated Artificial Sun Support Team, while Jeollanam-do has formed a specialized Task Force to coordinate provincial-level actions. Personnel exchanges between the city and province have been put in place to enhance close collaboration.

The Artificial Sun project, officially titled “Development of Core Nuclear Fusion Technologies and Advanced Infrastructure,” is a large-scale national initiative scheduled for implementation from 2028 to 2036, with a planned government investment of approximately KRW 1.2 trillion. The research facility will be constructed in Wanggok-myeon, Naju, and is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing Korea’s future energy technologies.

Local and provincial authorities emphasized that the project will serve as a future growth engine for Naju and position Jeollanam-do as a key hub for next-generation clean energy research. The governments pledged to continue close cooperation to advance the project swiftly and respond to the strong public interest and expectations surrounding the initiative.

Naju Accelerates Push for RE100 Semiconductor Cluster

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Naju City is accelerating efforts to develop an RE100-based semiconductor cluster, aiming to position itself as a leading hub for renewable-energy-driven advanced industries.

Backed by a strong energy ecosystem—including the headquarters of Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), advanced research facilities, talent and startup hubs, and the Korea Institute of Energy Technology (KENTECH)—the city offers high credibility and feasibility for an RE100 industrial complex.

Naju plans to provide 1.2 million pyeong (approx. 4 million m²) of industrial land with secured water and power infrastructure. The proposed development includes multiple semiconductor clusters, such as power semiconductors, renewable energy semiconductors, mobility-related semiconductors, bio- and agri-food semiconductors, and AI-based power semiconductors.

By reducing the renewable energy transition burden for companies and supporting ESG management through shared renewable energy use, the RE100 industrial complex is expected to attract major Korean conglomerates and global firms.

Naju City aims to leverage this initiative to establish itself as a flagship high-tech and clean-energy industrial hub.

Jeollanam-do Declares 2026 the “First Year of Scientific and Technological Advancement”– Province Announces Major Leap Toward a Global Innovation City Driven by AI, Energy, and Advanced Industries

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Jeollanam-do has officially designated 2026 as the “First Year of Scientific and Technological Advancement,” signaling a bold transformation toward becoming a global innovation hub based on artificial intelligence, clean energy, and cutting-edge technologies. The announcement was made during the provincial New Year Kickoff Ceremony held on January 5.

Governor Kim Young-rok emphasized that Jeonnam has strengthened its national position by securing 10 trillion KRW in national funding for the first time, overcoming last year’s political challenges, and emerging as Korea’s center for AI and energy, attracting world-class companies. Building on these achievements, he declared a “Golden Grand Leap” that will reshape the province’s future industrial landscape.

Key priorities outlined in the address include:

  • Expanding renewable energy such as solar, wind, and agrivoltaics to significantly raise farm income and establish an inclusive model of energy-based basic income.
  • Advancing future technologies—fusion energy, artificial intelligence, aerospace, advanced materials—through close collaboration with major universities, while establishing regional AI data center clusters and a southern semiconductor innovation belt.
  • Promoting AI-based transformation across traditional core industries such as petrochemicals, steel, and shipbuilding, as well as in agriculture, fisheries, and livestock through the “Jeonnam-model AX.”
  • Strengthening global presence by ensuring the success of the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo and pursuing the 2028 G20 Summit and COP33, while building a Southern Coast tourism belt leveraging nature, culture, and improved nationwide transport links.

Governor Kim concluded by reaffirming the province’s vision of becoming the AI and energy capital of Korea, advancing administrative cooperation with Gwangju, and positioning Jeonnam at the heart of the southern semiconductor belt.

Haenam Declares 2025 the Year of Its Rise as Korea’s “AI and Energy Capital”– Major national projects open historic opportunities for the region

Posted by on in 2025, AI, TechnologyLeave a comment

Haenam County has identified 2025 as a decisive turning point in its emergence as Korea’s leading hub for artificial intelligence and energy innovation. In his year-end address, Governor Myeong Hyun-gwan stated that Haenam is “no longer the land’s end, but the heart of Korea’s new AI and energy era.”

Key achievements include securing the National AI Computing Center, a mega-scale project expected to generate significant economic impact, and LS Group’s decision to build a dedicated offshore wind power port in the Hwawon Industrial Complex. The likelihood of additional flagship projects—such as the OpenAI–SK large-scale AI Data Center and the RE100 National Industrial Complex—is increasing, positioning Haenam at the forefront of Korea’s technological and energy transformation.

Haenam also made notable progress in agriculture, tourism, and regional development: construction of major agricultural research and climate centers is set to begin, smart-farming initiatives are advancing, large-scale festivals and international sports events boosted visitor numbers, and the Haenam Love Gift Certificate surpassed 820 billion KRW in cumulative sales.

The county achieved high national recognition as well, receiving the top grade in the national public-sector integrity assessment for the first time and maintaining the highest rating for seven consecutive years in the manifesto fulfillment evaluation.

Governor Myeong expressed gratitude to Haenam’s residents for their role in these accomplishments, pledging to build “an even more vibrant and livable Haenam” together in 2026.

Naju Accelerates Follow-Up Measures After Securing Korea’s National Fusion Energy Project– City Launches Taskforce and Prepares Infrastructure to Pass Government Review by 2026

Posted by on in 2025, TechnologyLeave a comment

The City of Naju is moving swiftly to position itself as a leading hub for next-generation clean energy after being selected by the Ministry of Science and ICT as the final site for Korea’s major national fusion-energy project—often referred to as the “artificial sun.” The project will receive approximately 1.2 trillion KRW in national funding and will run from 2027 to 2036, covering core technology development and the construction of large-scale demonstration infrastructure.

Following the site selection, Naju has launched full-scale follow-up actions aimed at successfully passing the government’s pre-feasibility study (PFS) by the end of 2026. Key measures include establishing a dedicated municipal taskforce, accelerating site preparation, and strengthening communication with local residents.

Key Initiatives:

  • Site Preparation & Compliance:
    The selected location within the Naju Energy National Industrial Complex allows rapid development using existing infrastructure.
    The site meets government requirements, including provision of a fully prepared building site by 2028, a 250-MVA power line, and a four-lane access road.
  • Infrastructure & Utilities:
    Proximity to the Wang-gok substation and industrial water facilities ensures the ability to supply large-scale power and water.
    Additional expansion areas adjacent to the main site meet criteria for sustainability and scalability.
  • Building a Fusion Research & Innovation Ecosystem:
    Naju plans to form a Fusion Science–Industry–Academia Cluster centered around the research facility.
    Collaboration will leverage the strengths of KEPCO, the Korea Power Exchange, and the Korea Energy Engineering University (KENTECH) located in Naju Innovation City.
    The goal is to attract energy-tech companies and create strong synergies between research and industry.
  • Talent Development & Science-City Strategy:
    The city aims to attract top international researchers and support their settlement in Naju.
    Initiatives include a “Fusion Young Scientist Program,” an Energy Gifted Youth Center, and development of new residential, educational, and research environments to build a globally competitive science city.
  • Citizen Communication & Transparency:
    Naju will hold public briefings and regional information sessions to explain the project’s goals and timeline.
    Continuous disclosure of progress and active collection of resident feedback will ensure transparency and public trust.

The national fusion project is expected to drive profound structural changes across Naju’s economy and urban landscape. The city anticipates the inflow of around 2,000 high-skilled professionals and more than 300 related companies, which could generate over 10,000 jobs. Population growth, revitalized local commerce, improved residential environments, and strengthened educational and research sectors are also expected.

Naju views this project as a historic turning point—one that will anchor the city’s rise as a global center for energy science and sustainable development.

Jeollanam-do Declares 2026 the “First Year of the Eastern Region’s 100-Year Grand Leap”– Major Industrial, Energy, and Tourism Transformation Announced

Posted by on in 2025, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, Technology, TourismLeave a comment

Jeollanam-do has officially designated 2026 as the “First Year of the 100-Year Grand Leap of the Eastern Region,” unveiling a comprehensive development strategy aimed at transforming the eastern part of the province into a core hub for future industries. The announcement was made during the year-end press briefing held at the Eastern Regional Headquarters.

Governor Kim Young-rok emphasized that although the petrochemical and steel industries are undergoing a period of crisis, this moment presents a significant opportunity. He stressed the need to fundamentally upgrade industrial structures, secure future competitiveness, and deliver visible, meaningful changes for residents.

Key Strategic Initiatives:

  • Industrial Transformation:
    Modernization of the petrochemical and steel industries through AI, decarbonization, and high-value technologies.
    Establishment of a battery and semiconductor cluster in the Gwangyang Bay area, including a National Advanced Battery Strategic Industry Complex (12.6 trillion KRW) and an RE100 Future Industrial Complex (12 trillion KRW).
  • Hydrogen & Future Energy Development:
    Creation of an integrated hydrogen platform based on LNG terminals, hydrogen pipelines, and a hydrogen port (5.03 trillion KRW).
    Promotion of the South Coast Hydrogen Industrial Belt and the transition of Gwangyang Steelworks to hydrogen-based steelmaking.
  • Clean Energy & Space Industry Cluster:
    Development of a “Clean Energy Hub” using the province-wide designation as a Distributed Energy Special Zone, including offshore wind projects in Yeosu and Goheung (13 GW) and pumped-storage hydropower plants in Gokseong and Gurye.
    Establishment of a K-Space & Defense Innovation Belt in Goheung, featuring a Space-Defense Innovation Cluster, a second national space center, and private launch vehicle testing facilities.
  • Agriculture & Fisheries Innovation:
    Introduction of AI-driven models for agriculture and fisheries across Suncheon, Gokseong, and Goheung, focusing on smart farms, blue food, and green bio industries.
  • Tourism, Global Events & Infrastructure:
    Development of an interconnected mega-regional SOC system to link industry, tourism, and logistics.
    Major projects include the completion of the Jeolla and Gyeongjeon high-speed railways, upgrades to the Namhae Expressway, and construction of the Yeosu–Namhae undersea tunnel.
    The province will also pursue large-scale international events such as the 2026 Yeosu World Island Exhibition, the 2028 G20 Summit, and COP33.
    Additionally, a wellness and marine tourism belt connecting Jirisan, Seomjingang, and the Dadohae archipelago will be created.

Governor Kim highlighted the historical strength of the region’s land, sea, and industrial sites—foundations that powered Korea’s economic rise. He affirmed the province’s commitment to leveraging this strength to build the next 100 years of prosperity and focusing all resources on delivering tangible improvements that residents can feel.

Jeonnam Technopark Achieves Outstanding Industrial Innovation Results in 2025

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Jeonnam Technopark has delivered significant progress in strengthening regional industrial competitiveness and fostering future growth industries throughout 2025. The institution reported major achievements in crisis-response designation, AI-driven industrial transformation, battery industry development, startup support, and ESG management—cementing its role as a central innovation hub for Jeollanam-do.

Key Achievements in 2025:

  • Designation as an Industrial Crisis Response Zone:
    – Yeosu National Industrial Complex and the Gwangyang region re-designated as priority Industrial Crisis Response Zones
    – Implementation of 40 follow-up projects totaling 800 billion KRW
    – Support includes financing, R&D assistance, employment stabilization, and customized corporate support systems
  • Major Advances in AI and Digital Transformation:
    – Secured 43.8 billion KRW in national funding
    – Projects include the AX AI Demonstration Industrial Complex and the Regional AI Transformation Program
    – Collaboration with GS Caltex, TKG Huchems, and others to build an AI-based innovation and digital transition ecosystem
    – Supported 827 smart factory transitions since 2019 → Top S-grade rating for 3 consecutive years
  • Strengthening of the Secondary Battery Industry:
    – Accelerated development of a national advanced battery-specialized industrial cluster in the Gwangyang Bay Area
    – Close cooperation with the provincial government and increased investment from POSCO and local SMEs
    – Positioning Jeonnam as a future global hub in the battery supply chain
  • Startup Promotion and SME Growth:
    – Supported 133 young entrepreneurs through the Jeonnam Youth Startup Academy
    – Hosted the Jeonnam Venture & Startup Festival, enabling investment and networking for over 50 companies
    – Assisted around 150 companies with technology development, commercialization, and market validation through the Growth Ladder Program
  • ESG and Management Excellence:
    – Awarded by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups at the 2025 SME Convergence Expo
    – Achieved ESG Level 2, with a target of reaching Level 1 by 2029
    – Earned the highest rating in Jeollanam-do’s provincial management evaluation for the second consecutive year

President Oh Ik-hyeon stated that these accomplishments were made possible through strong collaboration between Jeollanam-do, regional businesses, and the Technopark team. He emphasized that Jeonnam Technopark will continue to lead industrial innovation and drive sustainable regional economic growth.

Suncheonman National Garden Transforms into a Winter Christmas Village

Posted by on in 2025, TourismLeave a comment

Suncheonman National Garden has launched its large-scale Christmas season program “Santa Garden – A Place Even Santa Takes a Break,” transforming the nation’s first national garden into an experiential winter village for citizens and tourists.

A 13-meter premium Christmas tree—previously displayed at Seoul’s landmark Lotte Tower—now welcomes visitors at the East Gate, marking the garden’s first metropolitan-level holiday installation. From mid-December, the surrounding area will operate as Santa Village with themed exhibition and hands-on spaces inspired by Christmas sweets, toys, and festive storytelling.

Key attractions include the redesigned Santa Bus, a florist-collaboration carousel, “Red Christmas” and “White Christmas” thematic zones, nighttime lighting along the French Garden and Bald Cypress Path, and Christmas diffuser workshops. From December 20–25, Santa Garden Week will feature family events, treasure hunts, and interactive programs.

Mayor Noh Kwan-gyu emphasized that the project “turns the entire garden into a single Christmas narrative,” aiming to offer visitors both winter romance and a warm seasonal retreat.

Suncheonman National Garden has surpassed 4.5 million visitors in 2024, with projected annual revenue exceeding 12 billion KRW, reinforcing its role as a driver of gardenomics and urban brand value.

Jeollanam-do Accelerates International Efforts to Secure Hosting of the UNFCCC Climate Week 2026

Posted by on in 2025, Jeollanamdo & Europe, UNLeave a comment

Jeollanam-do is intensifying its efforts to secure the hosting of the UNFCCC Climate Week 2026 in South Korea, working closely with the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and key international climate institutions. Following its selection as the national host candidate, the province is now actively advancing final-stage international lobbying and preparation.

The Climate Week, launched in 2021 under the leadership of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), is one of the world’s most significant climate platforms. Delegations from 198 member countries, international organizations, NGOs, and global experts participate to engage in preliminary discussions that shape the official agenda of the COP.

At COP30 in Belém, Brazil, Jeollanam-do presented its carbon-neutrality strategy and highlighted the importance of hosting the Climate Week in Yeosu. A formal letter from the Governor of Jeollanam-do was delivered to UNFCCC Executive Secretary Simon Stiell, expressing South Korea’s commitment and request for hosting rights.

In December, a delegation led by Jeollanam-do’s Ambassador for International Relations, Park Cheol-ju, visited the UNFCCC Secretariat in Bonn and the ICLEI World Secretariat. During meetings with UNFCCC Deputy Executive Secretary Noura Hammamaji and ICLEI Secretary General Gino van Begin, the delegation emphasized Jeollanam-do’s readiness and the global importance of holding the 2026 Climate Week in South Korea. UN officials acknowledged Jeollanam-do’s strong capabilities and commitment.

The official host decision is expected later this December. Jeollanam-do is already preparing high-quality conference venues, meaningful side programs, and secure and convenient accommodation and transport systems.

Governor Kim Young-rok stated:
“Hosting the UNFCCC Climate Week 2026 would not only position South Korea as a global leader in climate response, but also serve as a crucial opportunity to showcase Jeollanam-do’s long-standing commitment and capacity in the field. We will continue to work with all relevant institutions to successfully secure the hosting.”

Jeollanam-do Begins “Love Thermometer Tower” Fundraising with Goal of 11.4 Billion KRW (~ 8.8 million USD)

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Jeollanam-do has launched the Hope 2026 Sharing Campaign with a fundraising goal of 11.4 billion KRW (approx. 8.8 million USD). The campaign runs from December 1 until January 31 under the slogan “Giving that adds happiness.”
At the opening ceremony, major institutions—including Governor Kim Young-rok and representatives from local organizations—participated in the unveiling of the Love Thermometer Tower, which reaches 100°C once the fundraising target is met.

The first donations for the Hope 2026 campaign included:

  • 2.5 billion KRW (1.92 mio. USD) from KEPCO KPS
  • 1 billion KRW (770,000 USD) from NH Nonghyup Bank Jeonnam Headquarters
  • 110 million KRW (85,000 USD) from the Jeonnam Provincial Assembly

Governor Kim emphasized the importance of supporting vulnerable groups during challenging economic and climate conditions and encouraged residents to contribute through local welfare centers or the official Jeonnam Community Chest account.

Suncheon achieved the top spot in ESG evaluations among local governments nationwide

Posted by on in 2025, Renewable Energy, Solar EnergyLeave a comment

Suncheon City ranked first in the 2025 Local Government Sustainable Development ESG Evaluation by the ESG Happiness Economy Research Institute.

The evaluation measured the sustainable development and administrative performance of local governments using 106 indicators in the three areas environment, society, and governance. A total of 17 metropolitan and 226 basic local governments across the country were assessed.

Suncheon City received high scores in all categories and was recognized as a “model city for sustainable urban governance.” The ESG Happiness Economy Research Institute launched this evaluation in 2021 to assess local governments’ sustainability efforts and strengthen ESG-based administration. This year marks the third round of the assessment.