Mokpo: A replica of a ship used for diplomatic missions during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) will set sail along the country's southern coast to celebrate South Korea hosting its first UNESCO World Heritage Committee session, organizers said Tuesday. The National Research Institute of Maritime Heritage announced that the vessel will embark on its journey from the southwestern port city of Mokpo and will sail eastward, visiting the port cities of Goheung, Yeosu, and Tongyeong, before reaching its final destination in Busan by the end of the month.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the vessel's journey is part of a series of events aimed at promoting public awareness of South Korea's UNESCO-listed sites. Busan will serve as the host city for the 48th UNESCO World Heritage Committee session, scheduled to run from July 19 to 29. The ship is a reconstruction of those used by the "Joseon Tongsinsa" official diplomatic missions sent by the Joseon Dynasty to Japan between 1607 and 1811. These missions were instrumental in fostering peace and cultural exchange between the two nations, making 12 voyages following the Japanese invasions of Korea, known as the Imjin War.

The replica ship, which took three years to construct, made its maiden voyage in 2018 and has since completed three trips to Japanese port cities, including Osaka. In Busan, the ship is slated to welcome delegates and visitors to the international meeting on July 25-26. The vessel will be open to the public during an event for World Heritage Committee representatives and local residents. Visitors will have the opportunity to tour the ship, learn about traditional Korean shipbuilding and the Joseon Tongsinsa missions, and sail to nearby landmarks such as Dongbaek Island and the Oryuk Islets.