Applications are now open for the 2026 UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum in South Korea . The Republic of Korea, through the Korean Heritage Service and the Korean National Commission for UNESCO, will host the World Heritage Young Professionals Forum in South Korea from 13 to 21 July 2026, under the theme " World Heritage, Communities, and Education: Empowering Youth as Agents of Change." The Forum will bring together 30 young people from around the world to learn and exchange ideas on how local communities, youth, and education can contribute to the protection and management of World Heritage sites for future generations. Further details are available below.
About the UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026, South Korea
- Host country : South Korea
- Duration : 9 days
- Dates : July 13-21, 2026
- Advantages : Fully funded
- Deadline: March 15, 2026
Financial advantages
The program includes the following:
- Round-trip flight tickets
- stay
- meals
- Visa fees
- local transportation
Program topic
The program aims to train 30 young professionals to become leaders who protect and manage the world's most famous natural and cultural sites. Participants will meet with global experts and visit renowned sites to learn three key things:
- Community power: How local knowledge helps protect these sites.
- Education: How research and learning lead to better managerial decisions.
- Youth leadership: How young people can lead the way in making these sites sustainable.
The forum will combine thematic discussions, workshops, group work, and field visits to World Heritage sites in the Republic of Korea.
Eligibility criteria
- Open to all nationalities.
- Age: Between 23 and 32 years old (born between 1994 and 2003).
- Professional background: You must be a professional or practitioner in one of these fields:
- Teachers or educators in schools/universities.
- Site managers who look after World Heritage sites.
- Researchers or innovators who focus on heritage.
- NGO staff or members of the local community working on heritage projects.
- Experience: You must demonstrate that you are already active in World Heritage activities.
- Passion: A strong desire to talk about youth, communities, and education.
How to apply for the World Heritage Forum for Young Professionals 2026?
Candidates can apply online through the official website. The link is below.