Seoul: The presidential office expressed its approval over South Korea being selected as the host for the 48th annual session of UNESCO's World Heritage Committee in 2026. This decision was announced during the committee's ongoing meeting at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. The session is scheduled to be held in Busan, located approximately 320 kilometers southeast of Seoul, in July 2026.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the presidential spokesperson, Kang Yu-jung, conveyed the government's satisfaction with the selection, emphasizing its significance. Kang noted that this year marks the 30th anniversary of the inclusion of significant Korean cultural sites such as Seokguram Grotto, Bulguksa Temple, and Jongmyo Shrine on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

The session in Busan will be a noteworthy event as it will be the first time South Korea hosts the World Heritage Committee meeting. This opportunity comes 38 years after South Korea joined the World Heritage Convention. The event is seen as a platform to showcase the country's cultural accomplishments on a global stage.