The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (Minister CHAE Hwi-young, MCST) announced the official launch of the National Committee for the 2026 Busan World Library and Information Congress (WLIC)[1] (Committee), established under the Korean Library Association, on November 28 (Friday) at the National Assembly Members’ Office Building (Conference Room 7).

The Committee, comprising 16 experts from the National Assembly, central and local governments, academia, and the private sector, will support the successful hosting of the 2026 Busan WLIC. Leveraging their deep understanding of on-the-ground library operations and extensive experience, the Committee members are expected to drive the growth of Korea’s library culture and promote further international and domestic library exchanges.

In particular, National Assembly members Jung Yeon-wook, who brings strong policy expertise and deep understanding of regional issues, and Cha Ji-ho, an expert in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation, will serve as co-chairs, playing a central role in policy cooperation and preparations for the Congress.

Co-chairs Jung Yeon-wook and Cha Ji-ho stated, “Busan is a city where libraries and the local community have developed together. We will work closely with committee members to ensure that local voices are faithfully reflected in the preparation process and that the Congress becomes a global venue for anyone to discuss inclusive and accessible knowledge environments in the era of AI and digital transition.” They added, “The Busan WLIC in 2026, which returns to Korea 20 years after the 2006 Seoul Congress, will elevate the stature of Korean libraries and offer global participants an opportunity to experience the diversity and dynamism of Korean culture. We will do everything possible to ensure a successful congress.”

The 2026 Busan World Library and Information Congress is the world’s largest international event in the library field, co-hosted by the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)[2] and the National Committee, and supported by MCST and the Busan Metropolitan Government. Planned for August 10-13, 2026, at BEXCO in Busan, the Congress is expected to bring together approximately 5,000 library and information professionals from more than 150 countries.