Operations staff who spent over 60 days safeguarding the exhibition grounds reflect: "It was a joyous time filled with the warmth of the visitors."

"Growing up on an island, it truly felt like I was coming home."

On the evening of November 2, in front of the Theme Island at the main venue of the 2026 Yeosu World Island Fair, Hong Gwan-pyo and Kim Chang-yeop—a couple married for 51 years—were busy capturing memories on camera. Originally from Jeokgeumdo Island and now residing in downtown Yeosu, the couple carved time out of their busy schedules to experience the exposition.

"We lost track of time taking photos, starting with the Easter Island Moai statues we encountered right at the entrance," the couple shared, expressing a hint of disappointment. "With only two days left before the closing ceremony, we even found ourselves wishing they would extend the event."

As the fair approaches its grand finale on November 4, a steady stream of visitors continues to pour into the grounds. From island natives rediscovering their roots and families traveling long distances with young children, to Yeosu locals who have visited five times, touching stories and reviews left by attendees have been compiled.

"Discovering Global Islands Beyond Textbooks"

Yu Eun-ho, a student visiting with family from Gangseo-gu, Seoul, picked the Marine Ecology Island as her most memorable spot. "Seeing the whales at the Marine Ecology Island made me think about serious issues like marine pollution, which you don’t quite grasp from textbooks," Yu noted. "The Treasure Island was also filled with fun things to do."

Kim Gyu-tae and Park Chae-jeong, who traveled from Busan with their young children, shared their impressions after touring the International Exchange Island. "We realized there are far more islands in the world than we ever imagined," the couple said. "It was wonderful to understand various global islands and broaden our perspectives on the world." They added that they now hope to visit Yemen's Socotra Island, which they discovered during the exhibition. The International Exchange Island has been hosting its second phase of exhibitions since October 7, featuring participation from 17 overseas local governments, including Hawaii, the Marshall Islands, and Socotra.

A Five-Time Visitor: "A Source of Pride for Yeosu Citizens"

For Yeosu residents and newlyweds Kang Seon-hyeop and Kim Da-hye, this marked their fifth trip to the fair. "Compared to our first visit, the content and attractions have expanded significantly, and the interactive elements have made it much more engaging for crowds," the couple remarked. "As citizens of Yeosu, we feel immense pride that this exposition is wrapping up so successfully."

Standing against the backdrop of Theme Island, couple Lim Seung-min and Oh Su-hyun highlighted the coastal walking trails. They described the ocean-side paths as the ultimate healing course, adding that the event provided a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the value of islands.

The People Who Guarded the Fair for Over 60 Days

Behind the scenes, staff members stood side-by-side with visitors throughout the entire event. Baek Yoon-seong, an operations worker from Gwangyang, Jeollanam-do, spent over 60 days guarding the front of Theme Island. "It feels bittersweet knowing it's ending soon, but it has been an incredibly happy journey," Baek said. "Protecting Theme Island made me feel proud to play a small role in regional development."

Kim Ga-yoon, who managed the Sea Gate, shared that her love for Yeosu inspired her to apply directly through the Yeosu City Hall website and move down from Seoul. "This experience created wonderful memories centered around 'romance,'" Kim confessed. "Visitors frequently handed me snacks, allowing me to feel genuine warmth." She added, "Some visitors even told me that citizens needed to unite and pitch in for the fair to succeed. Lately, many guests express sadness that it isn't running longer."

"Hoping These Spaces Live On Beyond the Closing"

Visitors have also shown strong interest in how the fairgrounds will be utilized after the event concludes. Many voiced a desire for the spaces—such as the sunset and ocean views, the island theme zones, and the Theme Island media facade—to remain accessible. Suggestions flowed from local residents and citizens hoping the area could be preserved as a public park or a casual picnic and camping spot for everyday leisure.

To transform the facilities and content into lasting regional tourism and development assets, Yeosu City is currently conducting a post-utilization research project, with a final master plan targeted for completion by December.

Kim Jong-ki, Secretary-General of the Organizing Committee, stated, "The stories left behind by each and every visitor over the past two months are the greatest record of this Island Fair. We will pour our hearts into welcoming guests on the very last day before closing, and carefully weigh visitor feedback as we prepare for what comes next."

Opening on September 5 under the theme "Connecting Islands, the Sea, and the Future," the 61-day 2026 Yeosu World Island Fair—held across Dolsan Jinmo District, the Yeosu World Expo venue, and the Gaedo and Geumodo areas—concludes its historic run on November 4.

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