'Gwangneung Forest Forum' on October 9 at Kyung Hee University...Special Lecture by YouTuber Gwittaedo, Experiences Planned

Gyeonggi Province will hold 'Gwangneung Forest Forum 2026' on October 9 at the lawn plaza of Kyung Hee University's Institute for Peace and Welfare in Gwangneung Forest, Namyangju City, to explore sustainable development of Gwangneung Forest, which has high ecological and cultural value.

The Gwangneung Forest Forum, now in its fourth year, combines expert lectures, performances, and ecological experiences to allow visitors from children to adults to easily and enjoyably appreciate the value of Gwangneung Forest.

At the keynote lecture, Jo Do-soon, co-chair of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Program (MAB) Korean Committee, will speak on the theme 'Learning new coexistence from the oldest forest's clock.' He will discuss harmonious coexistence between nature and humans through the old-growth deciduous forest of Gwangneung Forest.

Special lectures examining Gwangneung Forest from scientific, historical, and biological perspectives will also be held. Science YouTuber Gwittaedo, Kyeseung-bum, professor of history at Sogang University, and animal YouTuber Dahuk will each share their perspectives on Gwangneung Forest and nature.

Performances and experience programs will also take place at the venue. In addition to performances by 'Art on the Street' and 'G.S.T Eco Harmony,' an 'Eco Lounge' will operate with participation from local organizations active in the Gwangneung Forest Biosphere Reserve. At the Eco Lounge, visitors can find promotional, exhibition, and experience booths introducing the ecology and conservation activities of Gwangneung Forest.

A special experience space will also feature an Dahuk ecological exhibition zone and 'Eco Masterclass' programs, including making recycled musical instruments. The province plans to operate the event so that family visitors during the autumn holiday can directly see and experience the 560-year history and ecological value of Gwangneung Forest.

Gwangneung Forest was designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2010 and has maintained a forest ecosystem with diverse species habitats through long-term conservation centered around Gwangneung, the tomb of King Sejo of Joseon.

Kim Il-gon, head of the Forest and Green Space Division of Gyeonggi Province, said, "Through this forum, I hope that the Gwangneung Forest Biosphere Reserve will establish itself as a space where the coexistence of nature and humans maintained for 560 years evolves to create a sustainable future together."

'Gwangneung Forest Forum 2026' is open to participation by children and adults of all ages, and detailed event information can be found on the 'Gwangneung Forest UNESCO Biosphere Reserve' website.