The organizing committee of the 2026 Yeosu World Archipelago Expo said on Apr. 8 it humbly accepts concerns raised recently via YouTube channels run by Kim Seon-tae (former Chungju Man) and others about insufficient preparations and will tighten preparations during the remaining period to ensure the expo's success. Regarding delays in construction at the main venue, it said it will accelerate work with a goal of completion in July and mount an all-out response with a comprehensive plan to improve the surrounding environment.
According to the organizing committee for the Yeosu World Archipelago Expo, basic work such as water and sewage and drainage, and infrastructure projects including walkway installation, are progressing in parallel with construction of facilities and exhibition halls at the main venue (one landmark and eight exhibition halls).
An organizing committee official said, "Basic work at the main venue has been completed," adding, "Infrastructure work is 76% complete and is planned to be finished by June."
The official continued, "Construction of the landmark 'Theme Island' is 42% complete and is planned to be finished in July," and added, "Of the main venue facilities, the eight exhibition halls, excluding the landmark, will be built as temporary structures using special reinforced tents (TFS tents), and installation will be completed by June." The official added, "We are proceeding with all necessary preparations so that all facilities are completed by July, pilot operations take place in August, and a successful opening is achieved in September."
Regarding trash issues around the venue, officials explained that since February a full survey has been conducted on 440 derelict fishing gear items and abandoned vessels, and administrative action is underway against illegally stored materials. They also plan to collect household waste left on the islands every other week.
Acting Organizing Committee Chair Jeong Hyeon-gu said, "We will listen humbly to voices of concern and worry about the archipelago expo and meticulously ensure that nothing is overlooked in preparations to welcome visitors, from venue setup and attracting visitors to cleanliness and safety, during the remaining period."
The 2026 Yeosu World Archipelago Expo, under the theme "Islands, connecting the sea and the future," is scheduled to be held from Sept. 5 to Nov. 4 at Dolsan Jinmo District in Yeosu, and across Gaedo and Geomundo, as well as at the Yeosu World Expo site.