One week ago on July 7, 2012, I attended the Yeosu Expo with friends Katie G, Yolande H, and Katie R. The Expo 2012 Yeosu Korea will be held from May 12 to August 12 under the theme of 'The Living Ocean and Coast'. As the first world expo to take place on the oceanfront, it boasts 80 exhibition facilities in addition to exhibits by 106 countries and 10 international organizations. Highlights at the Expo include the Big-O, Sky Tower, Expo Digital Gallery, and Korea's largest aquarium, as well as street performances, water shows, a Big-O multimedia show, and other attractions. Yeosu Expo was listed 'Top places to visit in 2012' by CNN.
The Expo theme aims to help shed light on humankind’s knowledge and advancement of technology concerning the ocean and coast and identify ways to resolve challenges facing the ocean. Since the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea went into effect in 1993, the ocean has emerged as an important element in resolving various problems humankind faces, including those related to resources, food, space and the environment. However, industrial activities have damaged the marine ecosystem and subsequently reduced fish stocks. As a result, the ocean faces severe crisis. A damaged marine ecosystem, global warming and natural disasters are not limited to a certain country or region, but are issues that have global implications.
Touring the exposition was a great experience, and I feel fortunate that I was able to go. It was nice seeing the displays that the countries put on to express their culture and to give their take on ocean life. My favorite pavilions were Turkey (The food was great!), Italy (I love Italian food, and I bought a nice shirt for about 8 U.S. dollars.), and Sweden (The country seemed like a great place to live!). There are many videos on YouTube that highlight parts of the expo. I'm adding a Big O video (the view we had was horrible) here.
