UNESCO session wraps up with tidal flats expansion, 'Busan Declaration'

The 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee concluded Wednesday in Busan after nearly two weeks of diplomatic and cultural deliberations, adding 25 new sites to the World Heritage List and drawing tens of thousands of visitors to its side events.

The gathering at BEXCO, which began July 19, marked the first time Korea has hosted the international committee.

According to organizers, approximately 3,000 delegates representing 196 member countries attended the proceedings in person.

Concurrently, the "K-Heritage House" public exhibition hall at BEXCO drew more than 120,000 visitors, highlighting public interest in heritage preservation and cultural experiences.

Out of 33 agenda items submitted for review, the committee adopted 28 by consensus — approving 25 new listings, two major site expansions and one criteria modification.

Notable additions included Greece’s Mount Olympus region, France's 1944 Normandy Landing Beaches, Japan’s ancient capitals of Asuka and Fujiwara, and the Roças of São Tomé and Príncipe.

The session marked historic milestones, including the first W ...