Jeonnam-Gwangju Europe Office

Jeonnam-Gwangju Special Metropolitan Government of South Korea

News

South Jeolla Province Launches Committee to Attract KRW 1.2 Trillion Artificial Sun Research Facility

Posted by on in 2025, Education, Renewable EnergyLeave a comment

On October 30th, South Jeolla Province, in collaboration with Naju City, Korea Energy University, and representatives from industry, academia, and research institutions, launched the Artificial Sun Research Facility Attraction Committee at Korea Energy University. The committee pledged to position the province as a key hub for future nuclear fusion energy technology through the successful attraction of the research facility. Participants also expressed their strong commitment to establishing Naju as the “center of Korea’s artificial sun research industry.”

The bidding committee has about 120 members, including lawmakers, media, civic and corporate leaders, university presidents, and science and technology experts, to ensure strong local participation and support.

Bid Committee Role to attract the Artificial Sun Research Facility to Naju

  • Promoting public awareness of the bid and mobilizing support
  • Coordinating joint requests to the government to host the facility in Jeollanam-do
  • Collaborating with regional universities, companies, and research institutes
  • Strengthening cooperation between the government and the National Assembly

Following the launch ceremony, South Jeolla Province plans to establish a public-private partnership to host the artificial sun research facility and to accelerate public participation and consensus-building. If selected as the host site, the facility is expected to significantly boost the local economy, attracting over 200 companies and creating more than 10,000 jobs by 2050 through the influx of specialized personnel and the concentration of related industries. The government announced on the 16th that it will select the final candidate site in November after reviewing proposals, conducting on-site evaluations, and assessing presentations.

RWTH Aachen University in Germany and Naju City Discuss Energy Technology Cooperation

Posted by on in 2025, Renewable EnergyLeave a comment

Naju City has initiated an exchange program with Germany’s RWTH Aachen University to enhance technological cooperation in the energy sector.

On October 10, Professor Thomas Gries from RWTH Aachen visited Naju to review the city’s key energy policies and projects, as well as to discuss future collaboration opportunities. The visit aimed to share Naju’s ongoing energy transition initiatives, particularly in the direct current (DC) industry.

During the discussions, participants outlined Naju’s “Energy Capital” policy and exchanged insights on collaborative research and innovation in response to the global shift toward renewable energy.

Vice Mayor Kang Sang-gu emphasized the significance of the partnership, saying that the Cooperation with RWTH Aachen University will be an important opportunity for Naju City to emerge as a global energy hub.

Source: https://www.namdonews.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=835717

Yeosu Selected as Final Candidate to Host 2026 UN Climate Week

Posted by on in 2025Leave a comment

Jeollanam-do announced on the 29th that Yeosu has been selected as the final domestic candidate city to host the 2026 UN Climate Week, organized by South Korea’s Ministry of Environment.

UN Climate Week, launched in 2021 under the UNFCCC, is a major international environmental event that brings together thousands of parties, international organizations, and NGOs to set the agenda ahead of the annual COP meetings.

The Ministry of Environment opened the national competition in September, with Yeosu (Jeollanam-do), Goyang (Gyeonggi-do), and Jeju among five applicants. After a document review and presentation, Yeosu was chosen, recognized for its strong record in hosting large-scale events like the 2012 World Expo and for its infrastructure.

The selection reflects Jeollanam-do’s strategic location for carbon neutrality, relevance to climate discussions, seasonal programs, regional solidarity, and strong civic engagement.

Jeollanam-do and Yeosu City will now work with the national government to finalize the hosting, preparing venues, programs, and logistics. Governor Kim Young-rok stated that the bid is “an opportunity for Korea to emerge as a global leader in responding to the climate crisis” and to showcase Jeollanam-do’s commitment to attracting COP33.

Jeonnam International Agricultural Expo Hosts On-site Promotions at Yeongnam-Honam Exchange Center

Posted by on in 2025, Agriculture, NatureLeave a comment

The Jeollanam-do International Agricultural Expo boosted anticipation for its upcoming October event by participating in the East-West Harmony Yeongnam-Honam Culture, Arts, and Tourism Expo in Damyang.

The three-day expo, which concluded on the 21st, highlighted cultural, artistic, and tourism exchanges between the Yeongnam and Honam regions. Visitors enjoyed local specialty exhibitions, cultural performances, and interactive activities such as traditional Korean games and social media-linked events.

Park Gwan-soo, Director of the Agricultural Expo, emphasized the importance of engaging directly with local communities to raise awareness and interest.

The 2025 International Agricultural Expo, themed “Agriculture Changes the World – Agricultural Innovation with AI, K-Agriculture that Cultivates Life,” will take place from October 23 to 29 at the Jeonnam Agricultural Research and Extension Services in Naju-si, Jeollanam-do.

South Korean Delegation Explores Bilbao’s Role as a Sustainable Energy Hub

Posted by on in 2025, Jeollanamdo & Europe, Wind EnergyLeave a comment

A delegation from Jeollanam-do Province in South Korea recently visited the Port of Bilbao to gain deeper insights into its transformation into a sustainable energy hub. The port presented its strategic projects in the fields of offshore wind, renewable hydrogen, synthetic fuels, and broader energy transition measures. A central focus was the BilbOPS project, which from 2027 will enable berthed vessels to connect to renewable shore power. This initiative will significantly reduce emissions and noise pollution in the port area and is partly financed through an €80 million loan from the European Investment Bank, underlining its importance for the region’s green transition.

The discussions also addressed the development of green and digital maritime corridors and the establishment of renewable hydrogen connections between Bilbao and Central Europe, reflecting the port’s ambition to become a key player in the European decarbonisation pathway. For the South Korean delegation, Bilbao’s advanced infrastructure, established logistics networks, and strong offshore energy value chain – with leading companies active in the sector – were of particular interest.

The visit not only provided the Korean representatives with a comprehensive overview of Bilbao’s sustainability efforts but also opened the door for future cooperation between Basque and Korean partners in renewable energy and port innovation. By learning from Bilbao’s example, Jeollanam-do aims to strengthen its own offshore wind and clean energy strategies while exploring opportunities for international collaboration.

More information here: https://www.bilbaoport.eus/en/news/south-korea-visits-the-port-of-bilbao-to-learn-about-its-role-as-a-sustainable-energy-hub/

Jeollanam-do Secures Additional 2.6 GW Offshore Wind Power Approval – 30 GW Target Within Reach

Posted by on in 2025, Investment, Wind EnergyLeave a comment

On June 27, South Korea’s Jeollanam-do Province received approval for seven offshore wind projects totaling 2.6 GW – including six projects near Shinan and one off the coast of Yeosu. This brings the province’s total approved offshore wind capacity to 21.3 GW, accounting for 61% of the country’s total (34.8 GW).

The newly approved projects were submitted by companies such as Credo Offshore, KCH, and Deep Wind Offshore. One of the projects is part of the large-scale Shinan offshore wind cluster (3.2 GW), with 8 out of 10 subprojects now officially approved.

Jeollanam-do aims to develop 30 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030, with region-specific targets such as 9 GW in Yeosu and 8.2 GW in Shinan.

Governor Kim Yung-rok emphasized the province’s ambition to become a global hub for offshore wind energy. He welcomed the new government’s strong support for renewables and highlighted regional initiatives like the AI Supercluster in Haenam and the introduction of an energy basic income system.

Earlier this month, the province also hosted Korea’s first Offshore Wind Industry Expo in Yeosu, signing cooperation agreements to promote clean energy and strengthen the local supply chain.

Source: https://www.jldnews.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=204478

Suncheon Sets Its Sights on Becoming a Global Healing City 🌿

Posted by on in 2025, Jeollanamdo & Europe, Nature, Tourism, World HeritageLeave a comment

Suncheon, a coastal city in South Korea’s Jeollanam-do Province, is positioning itself as a global hub for wellness tourism. A recent delegation visited the UK and Germany to study innovative models of nature-based healing and social prescribing.

In London, officials met with the National Academy for Social Prescribing (NASP), where CEO Hammad Khan praised Suncheon’s eco-therapy approach as a “practical and powerful model.” Plans are underway for a formal partnership.

Mayor Noh Kwan-kyu emphasized Suncheon’s unique blend of UNESCO-designated gardens, tidal flats, and wetland reserves, which the city plans to integrate with culture, biotech, and sustainable tourism.

The team also explored Maggie’s Healing Center in Manchester and the Kneipp Gardens in Bad Wörishofen, Germany, drawing inspiration for a holistic wellness infrastructure.

Armed with new insights, Suncheon is accelerating efforts to become a global model for healing, nature, and mindful living.

Source: Maeil Business Newspaper

Yeosu World Island Exhibition 2026

Posted by on in AllgemeinLeave a comment

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

Posted by on in 2025, AllgemeinLeave a comment

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

Posted by on in 2024, AllgemeinLeave a comment

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.

A view of the aquaculture farms in Wando, Jeollanam-do
Kelp produced in Wando, Jeollanam-do, is being transported to the port for shipment. Newsis.
Shin Woo-cheol, the mayor of Wando, Jeollanam-do, is presenting a plaque of appreciation to Meredith McKay, Deputy Director of NASA, at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Seoul on November 6, 2023. Newsis.

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

Posted by on in 2024, Agriculture, AllgemeinLeave a comment

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

Posted by on in 2024, Allgemein, Events, Jeollanamdo & Europe, TourismLeave a comment

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.

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

Posted by on in 2024, AllgemeinLeave a comment

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

Posted by on in 2024, Agriculture, AllgemeinLeave a comment

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.

https://www.jldnews.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=179074

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

Posted by on in 2024, Agriculture, AllgemeinLeave a comment

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.

https://jnilbo.com/74128116674