K-pop icon G-Dragon is taking on a new global cultural role after being named honorary ambassador for the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea.
The appointment places the BIGBANG member, whose real name is Kwon Ji-yong, at the forefront of South Korea’s hosting of one of UNESCO’s major heritage gatherings.
The session is scheduled to take place in Busan from July 19 to 29, 2026, bringing together delegates involved in the protection, recognition, and monitoring of cultural and natural heritage sites around the world.
As honorary ambassador, G-Dragon is expected to help promote public interest in World Heritage protection through campaign activities and promotional efforts linked to the international meeting.
The role also connects him to the “Heritage in Peace” campaign, which aims to encourage wider support for heritage sites affected by conflict, climate change, disasters, and other threats.
Officials cited G-Dragon’s influence across music, fashion, art, and youth culture as among the reasons for his selection.
His appointment reflects the growing use of pop culture figures in global cultural diplomacy, particularly as South Korea continues to expand its influence through music, film, fashion, and creative industries.
The UNESCO World Heritage Committee is responsible for reviewing nominations for new World Heritage sites and assessing the conservation status of properties already included on the World Heritage List.
For the 2026 session, UNESCO said the committee is expected to review 30 new site nominations, proposals concerning three existing World Heritage sites, and the conservation status of 147 listed properties.
G-Dragon’s new role follows his earlier appointment as honorary ambassador for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Gyeongju, further expanding his presence beyond entertainment.
From K-pop stages to global heritage advocacy, the artist’s latest appointment underscores his continued rise as one of South Korea’s most visible cultural ambassadors.