Busan to host S. Korea’s first UNESCO World Heritage Committee session

Korea's southern port city of Busan has won the bid to host UNESCO's World Heritage Convention next July.

Park Hyo-been files this report.

UNESCO's World Heritage Committee meeting will take place in Busan, South Korea's second-largest city next summer.

In a meeting in Paris on Tuesday, officials announced that South Korea will host the 48th session, scheduled for July 2026.

While the event has previously been held in other Asian countries, this is the first time South Korea will serve as chair.

In response to the announcement, the government welcomed the decision and called it a historic moment.

"We're honored that South Korea has been chosen to host the 48th UNESCO World Heritage Committee session next July. This will mark the first time the meeting is held in our country, and it will be a historic moment to showcase South Korea's cultural leadership to the world."

More than three thousand participants, including representatives from 196 signatories to the World Heritage Convention are expected to attend, to review global cultural and natural heritage from multiple angles.

The Korea Heritage Service noted that the announcement is especially meaningful as it comes in the 30th anniversary year of Korea's first World Heritage listings, which include Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto in the city of Gyeongju.

"Since joining the World Heritage Convention in 1988, South Korea is now serving its fourth term as a committee member. We aim to promote dialogue among cultures and strengthen international cooperation, in line with UNESCO's founding principles."

Officials in Busan say the city was chosen for its proven ability to host large-scale events, with strong infrastructure, security, and accommodation.

The city previously hosted major gatherings like the APEC summit, and officials expect the World Heritage session to further cement its reputation as a global conference hub.

And with thousands of visitors expected, the event is also projected to boost the local economy through tourism and related spending.

At the 47th session in Paris which opened on July 6, a set of prehistoric rock carvings in Ulsan City was added to UNESCO's World Heritage list.

This marks South Korea's 17th inscription on the list and the 2026 session in Busan is expected to further elevate South Korea's standing in global heritage diplomacy.

Park Hyo-been, Arirang News.