This summer, the world is turning its attention to Busan. Major international events, including the UNESCO World Heritage Committee and the International Library Conference, are set to take place, transforming the city into a vibrant cultural festival.
According to the Cultural Heritage Administration, the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee will be held at BEXCO in Busan from July 19 to 29.
This marks the first time the committee is convening in South Korea, with over 3,000 representatives and experts from 196 member countries expected to attend. The Cultural Heritage Administration has planned various events to showcase Korea's cultural heritage to the world.
During the committee's session, the 'K-Heritage House' will operate continuously at BEXCO. It will feature media art and immersive experiences highlighting South Korea's World Heritage sites, including Hwaseong Fortress and the Seowon Confucian Academies, along with a 9-meter tall media pole showcasing the beauty of these sites.
Visitors can also enjoy K-food, K-seafood, and traditional market experiences, as well as shop for modern products infused with traditional culture at the 'K-Heritage Store.'
Events will continue throughout Busan, featuring performances that recreate royal court culture, including the changing of the guard and royal walks, as well as traditional arts performances and parades of the Joseon Tongsinsa. A film festival themed around travel will showcase films featuring World Heritage sites, and night tours will explore Busan's historical sites, such as the Yeongdo Bridge, with guided commentary.
The Busan Museum's special exhibition, 'Records and Culture of Joseon: A Legacy for Eternity,' will display royal artifacts, including the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty and royal seals and documents.
In August, Busan will host the 2026 World Library and Information Congress, the largest international conference in the library sector, from August 10 to 13 at BEXCO. This event will attract over 3,000 library professionals and experts from more than 150 countries.
The central theme will be 'Libraries in the Age of AI,' exploring the evolving roles of libraries as AI rapidly changes information production and usage. The event will also feature K-culture experience zones and various exhibitions and cultural activities.
Cultural festivals will abound, including the 2026 Busan International Buddhist Expo from August 6 to 9, which will offer a variety of exhibitions on traditional crafts, Buddhist cultural products, meditation culture, tea, and temple cuisine, making Buddhist culture accessible to all.
The Busan Theater Festival (July 1-26) will showcase works from representative theater companies across the country. The Busan Ballet Festival (August 20-22) will present a diverse array of ballet performances, while the Dongnae Folk Arts Festival (September 19-20) will feature local intangible cultural heritage, including Dongnae Yaryu and Dongnae Hakchum, at various venues such as the Busan Folk Arts Center and Geumgang Park.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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