[The Chosun Ilbo, November 28 2007] Yeosu Expo Must Serve as Catalyst for Korea's Upgrade

The earnest hopes of the residents of Yeosu, with a population of less than 300,000, ended up moving the world. Overcoming the pain of defeat, Yeosu was chosen as the host of the World Expo 2012. This is a proud victory achieved through the cooperation and ceaseless efforts of the private and public sectors, including the residents of Yeosu, the Korean people, as well as regional and central governments.

The World Expo, which is a global exhibition and festival offering a path of development and an image of the future for humankind, was first held in London in 1851 to become one of the world's three major events besides the Olympics and the World Cup. The World Expo is not just a one-off event. Previous expositions have served as opportunities to upgrade the image and economies of the host cities and nations.