Organizers sign sponsorship deals with AI firms Claion and HyperBabel to provide multilingual communication support for foreign visitors
The organizing committee for the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo has signed separate AI interpretation service sponsorship agreements with technology firms Claion and HyperBabel.
The two AI interpretation service providers will offer multilingual interpretation and information on the expo and Yeosu tourism to foreign visitors at the venue.
Claion will sponsor 51 million won ($35,700) worth of AI interpretation services, installing 20 tablets at the venue's general information centers and ticketing booths. The setup will allow foreign visitors and staff to communicate in real time through a face-to-face AI interpretation service.
The system supports 28 languages including Korean and is designed to assist with a wide range of on-site communication needs — from ticket purchases to venue navigation and general visitor inquiries.
HyperBabel will install three digital signage kiosks at major intersections within the venue and deploy an AI interpretation application on the mobile devices of on-site staff, enabling visitors to access information more quickly and easily.
The service covers 42 languages including Korean and goes beyond basic interpretation to provide multilingual information on the expo as well as local Yeosu resources such as restaurants, accommodations, transportation and tourist attractions.
"With AI interpretation services from both companies deployed across the venue — at information centers, ticketing booths, key pathways and with staff — foreign visitors will be able to get the information they need instantly, without having to search for a separate interpreter," said Kim Jong-gi, secretary-general of the Yeosu Island Expo. "We will use cutting-edge technology to break down language and cultural barriers and create an expo that everyone can enjoy together."
The 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo runs under the theme "Islands, Connecting the Sea and the Future," from Sept. 5 through Nov. 4, with 30 countries participating. Events will be held across the Dolsan Jinmo district, the Yeosu World Expo site, and the islands of Gaedo and Geumodo in Yeosu.
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