2026 World Island Fair Yeosu Korea

Staged at outdoor venues in the Yeosu and Jeonnam-Gwangju area, the fair officially opened in September 2026. The event features a variety of cultural programs, including re-enactments of traditional maritime life such as the Baennorae Folk Song, which commemorates the songs sung by fishermen from Geomundo. The expo's funding is a collaborative effort involving the South Korean central government, local governments, and revenue generated from ticket sales.

Early reports from the event's opening highlighted significant public attention regarding the quality of its production and exhibits. Notable controversy arose following a performance that used a fabric-covered truck as a substitute for a traditional boat, leading to criticism on social media about the event's execution relative to its substantial budget. Despite these challenges, the fair remains a major regional initiative focused on celebrating Korean island culture and attracting international tourism.