Arctic Partnership Week 2026: Busan to host global dialogue on the future of Arctic cooperation

The international Arctic community will gather in Busan, Republic of Korea, from 7 to 9 December 2026 for the Arctic Partnership Week (APW), an international conference focused on strengthening cooperation across the Arctic.

The 2026 edition will take place at the Busan Port International Exhibition & Convention Center (BPEX) under the theme “Space for Cooperation, Future for the Arctic.” Organised by the Korea Maritime Institute (KMI) and the Korea Polar Research Institute (KOPRI), APW will bring together representatives from governments, academia, industry, Indigenous Peoples and other organisations engaged in Arctic affairs.

Established in 2016, Arctic Partnership Week was created to strengthen Korea’s capacity and partnerships in the Arctic, providing a platform for dialogue across policy, science, industry, energy and culture. Over the years, the event has developed into a space where different sectors and perspectives can meet to discuss the challenges and opportunities emerging in the rapidly changing region.

Creating space for cooperation

The theme of the 2026 edition reflects the complex environment in which Arctic cooperation is taking place. Rapid environmental change, alongside increasing geopolitical uncertainty and growing international interest in the region, is creating new challenges for Arctic governance and collaboration.

Against this backdrop, APW 2026 will place particular emphasis on connectivity, dialogue and practical cooperation. The idea of creating new “spaces for cooperation” highlights the importance of bringing together actors who may approach Arctic issues from very different perspectives, while identifying areas of common interest.

The conference is expected to provide a forum for discussions spanning scientific research, policy development, economic activity, energy, culture and other areas relevant to the Arctic’s future. It will also offer opportunities to exchange knowledge and strengthen connections between Arctic institutions and international partners.

An opportunity to connect with the Arctic community

For professionals and organisations working on Arctic issues, participating in APW 2026 represents an opportunity not only to follow the latest discussions on the region, but also to become part of the international network shaping them.

Researchers can use the event to exchange findings and explore potential research collaborations, while policymakers and institutional representatives can engage with international counterparts. Industry and private-sector participants can explore emerging opportunities and establish connections with organisations working across the Arctic. Students and early-career professionals may also benefit from the opportunity to expand their networks and gain a broader understanding of current Arctic affairs.

Participants will have the opportunity to meet Arctic institutions, exchange ideas with experts from different sectors and establish new professional and institutional connections. The organisers have also indicated their willingness to facilitate connections with Arctic institutions for interested participants.

Take part in APW 2026

With the Arctic undergoing rapid environmental, political and economic transformations, international dialogue is becoming increasingly important. APW 2026 offers a space for those working on, studying or interested in the Arctic to meet, share perspectives and explore new forms of cooperation.

Those interested in attending the event are invited to contact the Arctic Partnership Week team for further information about participation and the programme.

Arctic Partnership Week 2026
📅 7–9 December 2026
📍 BPEX – Busan Port International Exhibition & Convention Center, Busan, Republic of Korea
Theme: Space for Cooperation, Future for the Arctic

For reference, information on the 2025 Arctic Partnership Week is available on the APW website below. 

You may refer to last year’s program for a general overview of the event.

2025 Arctic Partnership Week (APW)