Jeonnam-Gwangju Europe Office

Jeonnam-Gwangju Special Metropolitan Government of South Korea

Tag: Korea

Goheung County is exploring the German market for local agricultural and marine products

Posted by on in 2025, Agriculture, Events, Export, Jeollanamdo & EuropeLeave a comment

Goheung County announced on the 12th of November that it has signed a $5 million export agreement with Momogo, an Asian food ingredient distribution company based in Berlin, marking a major step in expanding overseas markets for its premium agricultural and marine products.

The partnership signals the start of full-scale market development in Germany, where Goheung aims to introduce regional specialties to a broader European audience.

Momogo, known for distributing Asian food ingredients and meal kits through multiple consumer-friendly brands, will gradually bring Goheung’s high-quality products- such as yuzu, seasoned laver, dried vegetables, and rice – to German consumers.

Under the agreement, Goheung County will support the establishment of a stable supply system, while the Eden Food Agricultural Cooperative will manage quality control and shipments, including key products like yuzu beverages.

Momogo will handle distribution and promotional activities in Germany, working to strengthen awareness and expand sales of Goheung’s signature goods.

Yeonggwang County wins the Minister of Climate, Energy and Environment Award from the Republic of Korea Solar League

Posted by on in 2025, Renewable EnergyLeave a comment

Yeonggwang County announced on the 11th of November that it received the Minister of Climate, Energy and Environment Award at the 7th Korea Solar League ceremony. The county was recognized for its outstanding policy achievements in advancing renewable energy and promoting carbon neutrality, earning national recognition as one of the leading local governments in sustainable energy governance.

Yeonggwang-gun innovative energy policies:

  • Achieved a 104% self-sufficiency rate in renewable energy
  • Enacted a citizen participation and profit-sharing ordinance
  • Implemented a “shared fund system” that returns power generation profits to citizens as a basic income

The 3MW agricultural solar power plant in Wolpyeong Village, Yeomsan-myeon, is the largest resident-led project in the country. Residents own 56% of the shares, and the profits from power generation are shared among 28 households in the village. This project is regarded as a model for a rural “energy basic income” system.

Yeonggwang County Drives Regional Energy Transition by expanding various projects:

  • Creation of a county-led solar power complex
  • Construction of village-level solar power plants
  •  Renewable energy convergence support project
  • Mini-solar power supply project for apartment complexes

Estonia and Greece Sign Participation Agreements for Yeosu Island Expo, 18 Countries Confirmed

Posted by on in 2025, Education, Events, Jeollanamdo & Europe, TourismLeave a comment

The Organizing Committee for the 2026 Yeosu World Expo has strengthened its global network by signing official participation agreements (MOUs) with the Estonian city of Hiiuma and the Ionian region of Greece, both of which had previously expressed their intention to participate in writing.

With these additions, a total of 18 countries and organizations – including France, Greece, Estonia, Madagascar, Peru, Kenya, and the WHO Asia-Pacific Centre for Environment and Health – have confirmed their involvement in the event.

The newly participating countries agreed to work closely with the organizing committee on key areas such as promotional activities, exhibition hall operations, scheduling of national days, and the dispatch of official delegations to ensure the successful hosting of the 2026 Expo.

Shinan County finalizes basic plan for 1,004 MW tidal energy development

Posted by on in 2025, Renewable EnergyLeave a comment

Shinan County announced on November 3 that it held the 2nd Tidal Power Generation Project Committee meeting and adopted the Final Report on the Basic Plan for the Promotion of the Shinan County Tidal Power Generation Project.

The plan aims to build a 1,040 MW tidal power facility in the waters around Shinan County, with completion set for 2040.

Tidal power uses the regular movement of seawater to produce clean energy. Unlike solar or wind power, it provides a steady and reliable energy source.

Shinan County plans to carry out the project in stages to adapt to future energy market changes and strengthen the stability of renewable energy supply.

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.

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

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

Korean Week in Dijon

Posted by on in 2024, Allgemein, EventsLeave a comment

From May 8th to 12th, the Jeonnam-Gwangju 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 Jeonnam-Gwangju, 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

Posted by on in 2024, Allgemein, TourismLeave a comment

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

Posted by on in 2023, Allgemein, TourismLeave a comment

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.