A Rehearsal Stage for the 2028 International Event
Full-Scale Launch of K-Seafood Globalization
Overseas Buyer Consultations in Full Operation
Wando County in South Jeolla Province is accelerating its efforts to ensure the successful hosting of the "2026 Pre-Wando International Seaweed Expo," which is scheduled to take place in May.
On January 5, Wando County announced that it held a kickoff meeting in the county office situation room, attended by Deputy Governor Lee Beomwoo, department heads, and representatives from service agencies, with over 30 participants. The meeting marked the launch of services for exhibition production, venue operation, and event agency work.
Wando County held a kickoff meeting for the exhibition production, venue operation, and event agency services in preparation for the '2026 Pre Wando International Seaweed Expo.' Photo by Wando County
Under the theme "Climate Leaders: The Future of the Ocean Opened by Seaweed," this event will be held from May 2 to 7 at Wando Beach Park. It serves as a preliminary stage for the "Wando International Seaweed Industry Expo," which is set to become an international event in 2028. In particular, it is designed as an industry-focused expo aimed at advancing the seaweed industry and globalizing K-Seafood.
During the meeting, participants reviewed the overall preparations, including exhibition production, expo venue operations, the opening ceremony, and performance and experience programs, and further developed content for each area.
The county plans to renovate the Wando Seaweed Center into a "Seaweed Understanding Hall," establishing immersive video displays and interactive systems to help visitors easily understand seaweed and blue carbon, which acts as a carbon sink.
The opening ceremony will feature a low-carbon performance utilizing cutting-edge information and communication technology (ICT), along with various activities such as eco-friendly water bottle making. Since Children's Day falls within the expo period, family-oriented programs like seaweed experiences and sea fishing activities are also being prepared.
The industrial and promotional pavilion will feature 60 booths where public institutions, major corporations, and export companies will participate to promote the seaweed industry and showcase processed seafood products. The county also aims to expand seafood export channels by holding export consultations with overseas buyers.
Additionally, an international academic symposium will be held to discuss the value and applications of seaweed as a new material for the future marine industry.
Deputy Governor Lee Beomwoo stated, "We will actively review the suggestions made during the meeting and do our utmost to ensure that the expo enhances the status of Wando, the home of seaweed, and contributes to the growth of the local economy."
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