South Korea Showcases UNESCO Tidal Flats and K-Seafood at World Heritage Committee in Busan
South Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF) is showcasing the country’s internationally recognized UNESCO-listed tidal flats and premium K-Seafood during the 48th UNESCO World Heritage Committee, taking place at BEXCO in Busan from July 19 to July 29, 2026.
The global event marks the first time South Korea has hosted the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, bringing together approximately 3,000 participants, including the UNESCO Director-General, ambassadors, government delegations from 196 countries, and heritage experts.
As UNESCO’s highest decision-making body, the committee is responsible for approving new World Heritage inscriptions, reviewing the conservation status of existing sites, overseeing endangered heritage properties, and managing the World Heritage Fund.
Korea’s UNESCO Tidal Flats Take Center Stage
To highlight the country’s coastal conservation achievements, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries is operating a Korea’s Tidal Flats Promotion Hall, introducing visitors to South Korea’s UNESCO World Natural Heritage site and the government’s ongoing efforts to protect and restore vital coastal ecosystems.
The exhibition showcases key marine conservation initiatives, including the marine protected area system, tidal flat restoration projects, ecotourism programs, and the preservation of traditional mud fishing, which has been designated as a nationally important fisheries heritage.
Visitors can also explore immersive experiences featuring promotional films, interactive displays of tidal flat wildlife, biological models, and virtual reality (VR) experiences designed to demonstrate the ecological importance of Korea’s coastal wetlands.
South Korea’s “Korea’s Tidal Flats” were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in July 2021 for their outstanding ecological value as habitats for endangered migratory birds. The World Heritage property includes tidal flats located in Sinan, Gochang, Seocheon, Boseong, and Suncheon along the country’s southwestern coastline.
K-Seafood Promotion Targets Global Seafood Markets
Alongside its environmental showcase, the ministry has opened a K-Seafood Promotion Hall, providing international visitors with an opportunity to experience Korean seafood products through interactive exhibitions and tasting events.
The promotional space features samples of export-oriented Korean seafood, including seaweed and abalone, complemented by multimedia presentations highlighting the quality, sustainability, and global appeal of Korean seafood. Visitors can also participate in hands-on activities designed to introduce the country’s seafood culture.
The initiative forms part of South Korea’s broader strategy to strengthen the international profile of its seafood industry while promoting sustainable marine resources and expanding global seafood exports.
Minister Highlights Korea’s Marine Heritage
Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Hwang Jong-woo said the UNESCO committee provides an important platform to present the global value of Korea’s tidal flats while promoting the country’s seafood industry.
“This committee event is an opportunity to demonstrate the value of our proud natural heritage, tidal flats, to the world, while also widely promoting the excellence of K-Seafood grown in our pristine seas,” the minister said. “We will continue to actively promote various events to showcase the excellence of Korea’s tidal flats and seafood products worldwide.”
The ministry expects the international gathering to strengthen global awareness of South Korea’s marine conservation achievements while enhancing recognition of K-Seafood among international consumers and industry stakeholders.
