G-Dragon takes Unesco World Heritage role in Busan, pushes ‘peace through culture’ message

KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 — K-pop star G-Dragon has been appointed honorary ambassador for the 48th session of the Unesco World Heritage Committee, which will be held in Busan later this month, according to The Korea Herald.

The Korea Heritage Service said the appointment recognises his global cultural influence beyond K-pop, along with his contributions to the arts and his efforts to highlight social issues through creative work and public-interest initiatives.

In his new role, G-Dragon will support campaigns aimed at protecting World Heritage sites, including appearing in promotional videos and events promoting the message of “peace through culture and participation.”

A joint campaign titled “Heritage in Peace” will be launched on July 10 in collaboration with Unesco, encouraging participation from citizens, businesses and cities in safeguarding heritage sites.

Funds raised through the initiative will go to the World Heritage Fund to help protect sites threatened by war, climate change and natural disasters.

G-Dragon previously served as an ambassador for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Gyeongju last year, where he also performed at the gala dinner.

The 48th session of the committee will run in Busan from July 19 to 29, marking the first time South Korea is hosting the meeting since joining the World Heritage Convention in 1988.