□ The Global Research and Training Centre for Internationally Designated Areas Under the auspices of UNESCO (GCIDA) announced that Lee Yulbeom has officially taken office as its first director as of February 5th.

※ GCIDA, established through an agreement between the Government of the Republic of Korea and UNESCO on April 11, 2024, focuses on enhancing the management capabilities of Internationally Designated Areas (IDAs) through research and training programs.

Career Background of Lee Yulbeom

□ Lee Yulbeom has held several key positions within the Ministry of Environment, including Director of Watershed Total Quantity Management, Director of Environmental Industry and Economy, and Director of the Wonju Regional Environmental Office. He has also been involved in significant legislative work, including the establishment of the law on the adjustment of national park zones and the registration and evaluation of chemical substances.

○ In addition, he served as the UNCBD (Convention on Biological Diversity Secretariat) Overseas Representative, where he developed the Bio-Bridge Initiative (BBI) roadmap in 2016 to facilitate biodiversity technology cooperation between developing and developed countries. This initiative has laid the foundation for successful business outcomes that continue to this day.

Inaugural Address by Director Lee Yulbeom

□ In his inaugural address, Lee stated, "Building on the unique characteristics of Jeju, which holds four Internationally Designated Areas, and its management experience, I will work to establish integrated management strategies tailored to the different types of IDAs and will begin developing both online and offline training systems for related managers and the general public."

Attachment: Biography of Director Lee Yulbeom, Inauguration Ceremony Photos