48th UNESCO World Heritage Committee Meeting Opens in Busan

The 48th UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting opened in Busan, marking the first time since South Korea joined the World Heritage Convention in 1988. The National Heritage Service, led by Director Hamin, co-hosted the opening ceremony at Bexco in Busan on September 19 with UNESCO. As the highest decision-making body of the World Heritage Convention, the committee will convene at Bexco until September 29, welcoming representatives from 21 member states and over 3,000 participants. Key figures including President Lee Jae-myung, UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany, and Mayor Jeon Jaesoo attended the opening ceremony, touring the K-Heritage House exhibition. The event featured performances blending traditional Korean dances with modern interpretations and a message from G-Dragon, UNESCO's official ambassador. President Lee emphasized the role of cultural heritage in fostering global peace and cooperation, highlighting its power to transcend borders and divisions.