Kim Youngrok and Min Hyungbae Clash Over Main Venue Change for Yeosu Islands Expo

Kim Youngrok: "No Venue Change Just Four Months Before Opening"


Min Hyungbae Points Out, "We Must Objectively Review the Many Issues"

Kim Youngrok, Governor of Jeonnam Province, expressed strong displeasure regarding the controversy over reconsidering the main venue for the 2026 Yeosu World Islands Expo, describing the arguments as "claims that undermine the event."

On April 22, Governor Kim stated on Facebook, "The Yeosu World Islands Expo, opening on September 5, will be the first international event since the launch of the integrated Jeonnam-Gwangju Metropolitan City. It is an important opportunity to showcase the charm of Korea’s islands to the world." He continued, "It is very difficult to accept calls to reconsider the main venue with just over four months left before the opening."

Min Hyungbae, former Democratic Party candidate for the special mayor of Gwangju, Jeonnam (photo left), Kim Youngrok, Governor of Jeonnam Province

Previously, on April 19, Min Hyungbae, candidate for the Jeonnam-Gwangju Integrated Metropolitan City under the Democratic Party, commented on social media, "Issues have emerged regarding the event preparations and the controversy over temporary structures on reclaimed land." He added, "We must objectively review the issue of the main venue. Concerns about the event turning into a second Jamboree are not to be taken lightly."

Governor Kim explained, "The main venue, Jinmo District in Dolsan, was decided in 2020 based on a comprehensive review of opinions from citizens and experts when the Expo application was submitted." He emphasized, "It was selected as the optimal location because of its symbolism as an island, the availability of sufficient space, and its flexible potential uses."

Governor Kim also pointed out, "On the other hand, the Yeosu Expo site was not a feasible option for the 2026 event due to the government's obligation to repay prior investments and the high lease ratio, making its use in 2026 uncertain. Additionally, facility aging made repairs necessary."

He added, "Even in 2024, there were discussions about changing the main venue, but we decided to maintain the original plan after considering administrative credibility, public opinion, and the possibility of post-event utilization. Since then, all preparations and promotions have centered on Jinmo District in Dolsan."

Governor Kim stated, "At this point, changing the main venue is effectively the same as calling off the event. Who will be held responsible for the confusion and the huge sunk costs that would result from a change?"

Regarding the event preparations, Governor Kim said, "We plan to complete construction of the facilities by July and conduct pilot operations and inspections throughout August. With active interest and support, the event is progressing smoothly and according to schedule."

2026 Yeosu World Islands Expo event site bird's-eye view. Photo captured from Yeongrok Kim, Governor of Jeonnam Province's Facebook.

In response to concerns raised by some about the risk of flooding, Governor Kim explained, "It has been confirmed that there are no issues thanks to improvements in the site's infrastructure and drainage system."

He further stressed, "There is no time to waste on unnecessary debates. Now is the time for all residents to unite their efforts and wisdom to ensure the successful hosting of the Yeosu World Islands Expo."

Meanwhile, the controversy over the 2026 Yeosu World Islands Expo began on April 3, when Kim Seontae, a YouTuber and former civil servant from Chungju City, visited the site and raised issues about insufficient preparations. The issue drew nationwide attention as President Lee Jaemyung ordered a central government-level inspection, and Prime Minister Kim Minseok, as well as Minister of the Interior and Safety Yoon Hojoong, subsequently visited Yeosu.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.