KB News Desk
Busan has been selected to host the 2028 United Nations Ocean Conference, one of the world’s most important high-level gatherings on marine issues.
South Korea was designated as the host country for the 2028 conference by the UN General Assembly in December 2025, and the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries announced Monday the selection after a committee reviewing bids from Busan and Jeju chose South Korea’s largest port city.
The UN Ocean Conference is held every three years to promote the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14, which calls for the conservation and sustainable use of the oceans, seas and marine resources.
The 2028 conference is expected to draw around 20,000 participants from the 193 UN member states, international organizations and non-governmental organizations. Participants will discuss a broad range of global maritime challenges, including marine pollution, sustainable fisheries and the sustainable use of ocean resources.
The previous UN Ocean Conference, held in Nice, France, in June 2025, attracted about 15,000 participants, including around 60 heads of state and government.
Busan’s selection reflects its status as South Korea’s leading maritime city and its concentration of related infrastructure.
“Busan Metropolitan City was selected as the host city after receiving high marks for its strong alignment with the spirit of the UN Ocean Conference,” said Choi Dong-ju, chair of the Host City Selection Committee.
The committee also recommended that Jeju, which was not selected as the host city, be given opportunities to host some pre-conference and special events associated with the 2028 conference during 2027 and 2028.
Maritime and Fisheries Minister Hwang Jong-woo expressed appreciation to both Busan and Jeju for their bids.
“We will work closely with Busan Metropolitan City and relevant agencies to thoroughly prepare for a successful conference that showcases Korea’s maritime capabilities to the world and leads international cooperation for a sustainable ocean,” he said.
