Yeosu – Host of the UNFCCC Climate Week 2026

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

Yeosu World Island Exhibition 2026

The Expo 2026 World Island Exhibition Yeosu Korea will take place in Yeosu, South Korea, from September 5 to November 4, 2026. Over the course of two months, the event will explore the central theme: “Connecting Islands, Oceans, and the Future.”

Yeosu, one of South Korea’s premier tourist destinations known for its rich culinary culture, will host this groundbreaking exhibition — the world’s first international event focused entirely on islands. The concept has already generated considerable interest and anticipation worldwide.

Islands are often difficult to access, yet they hold exceptional value due to their biodiversity, cultural variety, strategic locations, and their increasing relevance in the face of climate change. These factors make them more important than ever on the global stage.

With less than two years to go, Expo 2026 will be structured around two main themes:

  • Part 1: The Unique Essence of Islands and the Aspirations of Yeosu Citizens
  • Part 2: Journeying Across Yeosu’s Waters: Connecting 11 Islands via Eleven Bridges

CJ CheilJedang Joins Forces with Jeollanam-do and Haenam for Sustainable Seaweed Farming

CJ CheilJedang has entered into a strategic partnership with Jeollanam-do Province and Haenam City to develop a sustainable seaweed aquaculture project. This initiative is designed to increase seaweed production while prioritizing environmental sustainability. By incorporating eco-friendly cultivation techniques and leveraging advanced agricultural technologies, the project aims to enhance efficiency in seaweed farming while reducing its ecological footprint.

Additionally, the collaboration is expected to provide economic benefits to the local community by creating jobs and supporting regional businesses involved in the seaweed industry. By expanding the export of high-quality seaweed products, CJ CheilJedang hopes to strengthen South Korea’s position in the global market. This initiative aligns with the company’s long-term commitment to sustainable development, environmental responsibility, and fostering regional economic growth through strategic cooperation.

Collaboration Between Wando and NASA to Promote Sustainable Seaweed Economy and Climate Action

The coastal region of Wando in South Korea, the largest producer of seaweed such as nori, wakame, and kelp, is partnering with NASA to advance the role of seaweed in addressing the climate crisis and achieving carbon neutrality. Wando accounts for 50% of the nation’s seaweed production and has gained international recognition for its sustainable cultivation methods, which require no freshwater or fertilizers.

The collaboration began in 2021 when NASA released satellite images of Wando’s aquaculture sites, highlighting the region’s ideal conditions for seaweed farming and attracting global attention. NASA also emphasized seaweed’s environmental benefits as a carbon sink. The cultural significance of seaweed in Korea, such as its use in postpartum recovery and as a traditional birthday dish, was also noted.

During an upcoming visit, Wando Mayor Shin Woo-cheol will meet with NASA and the U.S. Department of Energy’s ARPA-E to discuss the development of offshore aquaculture systems and the international certification of seaweed as a blue carbon resource. In 2022, Wando had already expressed gratitude to NASA for promoting Korean seaweed through their analysis and satellite imagery, proposing closer collaboration.

The planned projects aim to advance the marine bioindustry, establish seaweed as a globally recognized carbon-absorbing resource, and encourage sustainable methods in the international aquaculture sector. This partnership has the potential to position Wando as a global leader in sustainable seaweed production.

South Jeolla Promotes 2025 International Agricultural Expo at Korea’s Largest Agri-Machinery Fair

The South Jeolla International Agricultural Expo Foundation is promoting the 2025 International Agricultural Expo at Korea’s largest agri-machinery fair, the “Korea International Agri-Machinery Expo,” held in Daegu from October 30 to November 2. This large-scale event brings together the latest agricultural machinery and technology from 25 countries, with 429 companies exhibiting in 11 pavilions.

At the expo, South Jeolla’s representatives will conduct targeted marketing, engaging directly with companies and institutions to encourage participation in the 2025 event. They will also gather valuable feedback through interactive surveys with agricultural experts and industry professionals, which will inform the planning and execution of the 2025 Expo.

Kim Haeng-ran, CEO of the International Agricultural Expo Foundation, emphasized that the feedback collected will contribute significantly to the success of the 2025 Expo, scheduled to be held in October 2025 under the theme “Agricultural Innovation with AI: Nurturing Life with K-Agriculture” at the South Jeolla Agricultural Research Institute.

Quelle: https://www.jldnews.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=186918

Jeollanamdo Photo Exhibition and Kimbap Cooking Class in Tirol

The Jeollanamdo Photo Exhibition is now open in Innsbruck and Kitzbühel.

The exhibition runs for approximately four weeks at Artium Landhaus 2 in Innsbruck and the KCC in Kitzbühel. A formal opening ceremony was held in Innsbruck on September 6 to commemorate the launch.

On September 6 and 7, the Jeollanamdo Europe Office also hosted exclusive Kimbap cooking classes, offering participants a hands-on experience in preparing this traditional Korean dish. The cooking classes were led by Director, Dr. Peter Kim and marketing manager Tamara Wiedersum. They were well-received by attendees.

The event provided a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of Jeollanamdo through photography, combined with an introduction to Korean cuisine.

Naju City, Payback Event for Traditional Markets: 10% Refund for Purchases Over 50,000 KRW

Naju City in Jeollanam-do is hosting a “Payback” event from September 11 to 15 to boost traditional market sales ahead of Chuseok. Customers who spend over 50,000 KRW at one of six traditional markets will receive 10% of their purchase amount back in Naju Love Gift Certificates. The event aligns with local market days and includes a maximum refund of 50,000 KRW per person for purchases exceeding 500,000 KRW. To qualify, customers must visit the market’s merchant association office within two hours of purchase with a valid ID and receipt.

Additionally, Naju Love Card users can combine existing benefits, including a 10% recharge discount and a 5% cashback offer, to receive up to 30% in total discounts during the event. Naju City has also temporarily raised the Naju Love Card’s purchase limit for September from 500,000 KRW to 700,000 KRW.

Mayor Yoon Byung-tae hopes the event will encourage residents to enjoy festive shopping at traditional markets and help revitalize the local economy.

Read more here: https://www.viva100.com/main/view.php?key=20240903010001066

Jeonnam Food Export Association takes the lead in exporting local agricultural and marine products

The Jeonnam Food Export Association promotes the competitiveness of regional agricultural and fishery products in the global market. An event sponsored by Jeollanam-do Province was held in Naju on July 12, with over 80 participants, including local officials and export companies, in attendance.

The programs included:

• Analysis of sales trends and successful products in the U.S.,

• Training on export customs procedures,

• Introduction to a food fair in China,

• Information on launching in the U.S. online market.

Trends in convenience and health, as well as success stories such as frozen kimbap, attracted particular interest.

Special consultations for export companies were also offered. Chairman Han Mun-chul stressed the need for successful export activities despite economic challenges. The province actively supports the development of export companies in the agricultural and fishery sectors.

Jeonnam Province Announces a “Low-Carbon, Regenerative Organic” Vision for the Future of Agriculture

Jeollanam-do Province has announced a new vision for the future of eco-friendly agriculture, focusing on “low-carbon and regenerative organic farming.” This vision was presented on July 5 during an event at the Kim Dae-jung Auditorium, attended by approximately 900 eco-friendly farmers.

The new vision includes three main strategies:

1. Regenerative Organic Farming: This strategy goes beyond merely obtaining organic certifications. It aims to protect the soil and animals and improve the lives of farmers and all living beings. The goal is to revitalize the soil through increased organic matter, which helps sequester carbon, ultimately contributing to climate change mitigation.

2. Eco-Friendly Agriculture of the Future: This strategy involves diversifying the production of eco-friendly agricultural products and developing high-value organic foods using advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), agritech, and smart farming. This approach aims to create an attractive environment for young future farmers.

3. Low-Carbon Agricultural Technologies: This involves reducing the use of fertilizers, pesticides, and energy throughout the entire production process to lower greenhouse gas emissions. This strategy aims to reduce production costs and increase the competitiveness of Jeollanam-do’s agriculture in national and international markets.

The vision will be detailed in the “5th Six-Year Plan for the Promotion of Eco-Friendly Agriculture (2025-2030),” which is currently being developed. Governor Kim Young-rok emphasized that Jeollanam-do will continue to be promoted as a leading area in organic farming, extending its reach from Korea to the world.

Yeongsan Hoesangdo and Palsangdo of Songgwangsa Temple in Suncheon designated as a National Treasure

The city of Suncheon held a celebration on June 27 at Songgwangsa Temple to commemorate the designation of the “Yeongsan Hoesangdo and Palsangdo of Songgwangsa” as a National Treasure. These significant Buddhist paintings were declared a Treasure in 2003 and, after more than twenty years, have now received National Treasure status, the first such designation since the establishment of the National Heritage Administration.

The ceremony took place in the Daeungbojeon Hall and the Sungbo Museum of the temple, attended by the National Heritage Administration, the temple’s devotees, and local residents. Choi Eung-cheon, the head of the National Heritage Administration, personally handed over the designation certificate to the temple.

The “Yeongsan Hoesangdo and Palsangdo” are important Buddhist paintings housed at Songgwangsa Temple in Suncheon. These paintings consist of two main parts:

1. Yeongsan Hoesangdo (영산회상도): This painting depicts Buddha preaching on Vulture Peak (Yeongsan). It symbolizes Buddha’s teachings and enlightenment.

2. Palsangdo (팔상도): These paintings comprise eight individual scenes depicting significant events from Buddha’s life, from his birth to his entry into Nirvana. They illustrate the key stages of Buddha’s life.

The paintings were created in 1725 by artists such as Uigyeom and are representative works of the late Joseon Dynasty. Originally made for worship in the Yeongsanjeon Hall of Songgwangsa Temple, they are now exhibited in the temple’s Sungbo Museum.

Choi Eung-cheon emphasized the importance of these works and announced that the National Heritage Administration, in collaboration with the city of Suncheon and Songgwangsa Temple, is committed to ensuring the systematic preservation and utilization of these cultural assets.

Korean Week in Dijon

From May 8th to 12th, the Jeollanamdo Europe Office participated in Korean Week, which took place in Dijon, France. This exceptional event attracted people from various regions and provided a wonderful opportunity to learn more about Korean culture. Visitors had the chance to purchase souvenirs, try on traditional Korean clothing, the Hanbok, and take photos in this beautiful attire.

A special highlight of the festival was the diverse workshops. Participants could learn how to prepare kimbap and kimchi themselves, paint traditional Korean masks, and, of course, a K-Pop cover dance workshop was a must.

The focus of the festival was on Korean food. The ingredients were sourced from Jeollanamdo, a region renowned for its high-quality produce. Outside of the workshops, visitors also had numerous opportunities to sample and purchase various Korean delicacies.

The Korean Festival in Dijon was a great success and offered visitors an impressive and unforgettable experience. It helped to bring Korea’s cultural and culinary treasures to a wider audience.

Jeollanamdo Tourism Event in Berlin

On April 25, 2024, a tourism event took place at the Maritim proArte Hotel in Berlin, co-organized by the Jeollanamdo Europe Office. The event was attended by Governor Kim Yung-Rok of the Jeollanamdo Province and his delegation.

The program commenced with a speech by Governor Kim Yung-Rok, introducing the province of Jeollanamdo. The magnificent aspects of the province were highlighted through a video presentation, showcasing its picturesque landscapes and cultural treasures. The director of the Jeollanamdo Europe Office, Dr. Ki-Cheol (Peter) Kim held a short presentation about Jeollanamdo and some interesting information concerning Jeollanamdo Tourism. EasyCookAsia, a partner of Jeollanamdo, that developed the Jeonnam Travel Food Box together with Jeollanamdo. The Jeollanam-do Global SNS Supporters also took part in the event and took part in a ceremony on stage. A small cultural program included traditional Korean songs as well as modern K-pop dances. Everything concluded with a shared dinner, providing guests with the opportunity to engage in conversations among themselves and with the Governor.

The tourism event was not only an opportunity to discover the beauty and diversity of Jeollanamdo, but also a forum for intercultural exchange and cooperation.

Jeollanamdo at the Museumsuferfest 2023

Jeollanamdo organized this year’s Museumsuferfest from August 25 to August 27 together with the Consulate General and the Korean Tourism Organization to celebrate 140 years of diplomatic relations between Germany and Korea. The Museumsuferfest is a cultural festival that shows the beauty of different cultures and invites the visitors to indulge in different kinds of foods and cultural programs. In the Korea area, people could enjoy various Korean foods and a program completely focused on Korean culture.

There were several food stalls with delicious Korean food and culture booths as well. Jeolllanamdo had its own booths. One of those booths invited people to take part in giveaways, get some information about the region and take some tourism material with them to plan their trip to Jeollanamdo. In the other two booths, the visitors were able to buy and try different foods from Jeollanamdo. They were operated by Kreassive, whose products you can find on the Amazon store “The Kitchen of Korea” and Panasia whos eproducts you can find online and at the K-Shop in Bad Homburg.

The South Korea area also had a stage with various performances from Germany and Korea, that the visitors could enjoy during the three days of the festival. The opening ceremony of the Museumsuferfest was held on that stage with the consul general Kyungsok Koh, the vice governor of Jeollanamdo Park Chang hwan, Elke Voitl, who works for the Department of Social Affairs and Health of the City of Frankfurt and Thomas Feda, Managing Director of Tourismus+Congress GmbH Frankfurt am Main. Dancers from Jeollanamdo and the Kukkiwon Taekwondo team made sure to leave a lasting impression on the visitors during the opening ceremony. Our Jeollanamdo Global SNS Supporters were introduced on stage as well and they received their letter of appointment.

The stage was filled with the passion of the performers showing off their Taekwondo, dancing and music skills. People could listen to a Jazz band, Kpop dance teams and traditional Korean dance groups entertained the visitors and a Jeollanamdo Kimchi workshop showed the visitors how Jeollanamdo Kimchi is made and how it tastes.

The whole festival was closed with beautiful fireworks that also used two Korean songs to focus on the host country South Korea. The Musuemsuferfest this year was visited by about 1,2 million visitors from all over the world.

Launching the Jeollanamdo Travel Cook Box

At the end of 2022 the Jeollanamdo Travel Cook box has been launched by EasyCookAsia and the Jeollanamdo Europe Office.

EasyCookAsia is a startup company from Berlin that creates Asian cook boxes to introduce Asian culture and food to everyone. The company thinks that food builds cultural bridges and that it connects people with other cultures. EasyCookAsia is committed to combine food and culture in one box to open doors to other countries. Customers can travel to different countries from home by getting the holiday feeling while cooking and eating dishes from various Asian countries.

The Jeollanamdo Travel Cook Box was created to introduce Jeollanamdo and its food to people. It contains a culture guide in German, snacks and drinks from Jeollanamdo and two recipe boxes with vegan recipes that can be cooked easily. The culture guide introduces various foods and the places in Jeollanamdo they are linked to. EasyCookAsia and Jeollanamdo see the box as a great opportunity to promote Jeollanamdo tourism and expand the Jeollanamdo food export as well.

Jeollanamdo´s Shop-in-Shop in Bad Homburg

On October 18th, the Jeollanamdo Europe Office opened their second shop-in-shop at the K-Shop in Bad Homburg near Frankfurt in Germany. Several high-ranking representatives of Korean companies officially opened the shop-in-shop that offers many different kinds of snacks, cooking ingredients or tea from Jeollanamdo.

Visitors will especially find many different seaweed products in the “Jeollanamdo corner” since the province Jeollanamdo is very well known for its seaweed. They can also look forward to finding Boseong Green Tea, rice from Jeollanamdo, seaweed noodles and sweet rice snacks.

The K-Shop was opened by Panasia, one of Europe’s biggest Asian food product importers. Panasia has several offline markets around Europe, including Germany and Austria, and is the first offline partner of Jeollanamdo Europe.