Andong, South Korea – In a powerful display of solidarity and commitment to national resurgence, the World Federation of Overseas Korean Traders Associations (World-OKTA) has announced its unwavering decision to proceed with the 26th World Representatives Convention and the 2025 KOREA BUSINESS EXPO ANDONG (KBEA) in Andong, North Gyeongsang Province, from April 28th to May 1st. This resolute stance comes in the wake of devastating wildfires that ravaged the region, prompting a period of deep reflection within the organization.
Led by Chairman Park Jong-beom, World-OKTA, a prominent organization representing 7.5 million overseas Koreans and their extensive business networks, has chosen to transform potential mourning into proactive recovery efforts. This decision underscores the deep-rooted connection and responsibility that overseas Korean entrepreneurs feel towards their homeland, particularly during times of adversity.
The recent wildfires have had a tangible impact on the local economy, particularly the tourism sector. Data from the Korea Culture & Tourism Institute reveals a significant 18% average decrease in visitors to key tourist sites across five fire-stricken cities and counties in North Gyeongsang (Andong, Yecheon, Yeongju, Bonghwa, and Uljin) during March 2025 compared to the previous year. This downturn highlights the urgent need for revitalization initiatives to support the affected communities.
Responding swiftly to the crisis, both the North Gyeongsang Provincial Government and Andong City have launched emergency projects aimed at attracting tourists and injecting vitality back into the local economy. Campaigns such as the ‘Hope Travel Fair’ and ‘Hope for Andong’ are actively underway, with local authorities earnestly seeking collaboration with the private sector to amplify their impact.
World-OKTA’s decision to hold its flagship event in Andong is a significant boost to these recovery efforts. The convention is expected to draw approximately 2,000 participants, including influential overseas Korean business leaders, domestic entrepreneurs, and international buyers. This influx of visitors will generate substantial direct economic benefits for Andong and the surrounding region, supporting local businesses in sectors such as accommodation, food and beverage, transportation, and tourism.
A key component of the Convention is the 2025 KBEA, which will serve as a crucial platform for fostering international business partnerships. The expo is anticipated to feature around 240 dynamic domestic companies showcasing their products and services to over 1,000 overseas Korean businesspeople and international buyers. The event will prioritize export consultations and networking opportunities, providing comprehensive support for Korean small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking to expand their reach into global markets. This focus on facilitating international trade aligns with World-OKTA’s long-standing mission to connect Korean businesses with opportunities worldwide.
Demonstrating a deep commitment to providing tangible aid to the local community, World-OKTA has tailored the operational aspects of the convention to directly benefit Andong residents. In a departure from traditional large-scale banquets, official meals will be decentralized, with participants encouraged to dine at local restaurants, including those in the historic Andong Hahoe Village. Furthermore, every participant will receive ‘Andong Love Gift Certificates,’ a local currency initiative designed to ensure that spending directly supports small businesses and the grassroots economy within the region.
Beyond economic contributions, World-OKTA is actively engaged in philanthropic endeavors to support those directly affected by the wildfires. A global fundraising campaign has been launched among its extensive network of members, with the proceeds to be formally presented to wildfire victims during a donation ceremony at the Convention. This initiative underscores the organization’s compassionate response to the crisis and its dedication to providing immediate relief to those in need.
In a symbolic gesture of long-term commitment to the region’s recovery, World-OKTA will also initiate a ‘Hope Tree Planting Event,’ tentatively named the ‘OKTA Forest.’ This initiative aims to revitalize the forest areas devastated by the wildfires, transforming loss into a symbol of renewal and collective hope. The saplings donated during the Convention will be planted in collaboration with Andong City, creating a lasting testament to the solidarity of the global Korean business community and their investment in a sustainable future for the region. The ‘OKTA Forest’ is envisioned as a meaningful space that embodies the enduring spirit and cultural heritage of Andong.
Chairman Park Jong-beom emphasized World-OKTA’s enduring role in supporting South Korea during times of national challenge. “As an organization of overseas Korean business leaders, our commitment extends beyond mere networking; we have consistently stood alongside our homeland during critical junctures,” stated Chairman Park. He highlighted the organization’s proactive involvement during the urea shortage crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, asserting that the response to the recent wildfires is a natural continuation of this tradition of responsible engagement.
“Our upcoming convention in Andong prioritizes responsibility over celebration, recovery over commemoration, and tangible local contribution over mere spectacle,” Chairman Park affirmed. “We sincerely hope that this event will serve as a catalyst, bringing a vibrant spring of hope to the resilient people of Andong.”
With its steadfast commitment and multifaceted approach, World-OKTA’s decision to proceed with its convention in Andong represents a powerful act of solidarity and a significant step towards the region’s recovery, demonstrating the enduring strength and unity of the global Korean community.
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