Korea 2026

The 22nd Goose Specialist Group Meeting will run from 27 to 31 January 2027 in Seosan, Chungnam Province, South Korea.

The Republic of Korea occupies a strategic position within the EAAF, supporting millions of migratory birds during their annual journeys between Arctic breeding grounds and wintering sites in East and Southeast Asia. Among Korean wetlands, Cheonsu Bay has long been recognised as one of the country's most significant sites for wintering geese and cranes. Large numbers of Greater White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons) and Tundra Bean Goose (Anser serrirostris) regularly utilise the area, while other species, including Swan Goose (Anser cygnoides), Taiga Bean Goose (Anser fabalis), and various species of ducks and shorebirds, are also recorded. The region additionally supports internationally important populations of the vulnerable Hooded Crane (Grus monacha) and other migratory waterbirds.

Cheonsu Bay represents a distinctive landscape shaped by both natural processes and human activities. Historically, the area consisted of extensive tidal flats and coastal wetlands along the Yellow Sea. Large-scale land reclamation projects undertaken during the late twentieth century transformed parts of the bay into agricultural land, freshwater reservoirs, and managed wetlands. Today, the mosaic of rice paddies, reservoirs, estuarine habitats, and remaining coastal ecosystems provides valuable feeding and roosting habitats for wintering geese and other waterbirds.

Beyond its ecological importance, Seosan offers participants an opportunity to experience the cultural heritage of Korea's west coast. The region is known for its rich agricultural traditions, seafood cuisine, historic temples, and scenic coastal landscapes. Located within convenient travelling distance from Seoul and Incheon International Airport, Seosan provides an ideal setting for scientific exchange, field excursions, and discussions on the conservation and management of migratory waterbirds in rapidly changing landscapes.

Field excursions associated with the conference will provide participants with opportunities to observe large concentrations of wintering geese and other waterbirds in Cheonsu Bay and surrounding wetlands, while also highlighting ongoing conservation initiatives and the challenges of balancing biodiversity conservation with agricultural and regional development.

Meeting Overview

• Event: The 22nd Goose Specialist Group Meeting (GSG 2027)

• Dates: 27 January – 31 January 2027

• Venue: Wake Up International Youth Center, Seosan City, Chungcheongnam-do, Republic of Korea

• Official Website: www.gsg2027.kr

Located near the internationally renowned Cheonsu Bay wetland complex, the venue offers close proximity to one of the most critical wintering areas for migratory waterbirds along the East Asian–Australasian Flyway (EAAF). Participants will have the opportunity to experience the spectacular wintering populations of Greater White-fronted Geese (Anser albifrons), Tundra Bean Geese (Anser serrirostris), Swan Geese (Anser cygnoides), Hooded Cranes (Grus monacha), and many other species.

Important Dates & Deadlines

• 1 August 2026: Opening of Conference Registration & Announcement Distribution

• 30 September 2026: Deadline for Workshop / Round-table Discussion Proposals

• 31 October 2026: Deadline for Oral Presentation Abstract Submission

• 10 November 2026: Deadline for Poster Presentation Abstract Submission

• 1 December 2026: Program Announcement

• 5 December 2026: Confirmation of Abstract Acceptance

• 15 December 2026: Registration Deadline

Program at a Glance

• 27 January 2027 (Wed): Arrival & Welcome Banquet

• 28 January 2027 (Thu): Plenary Talks & Poster Session

• 29 January 2027 (Fri): Sunrise Field Excursion, Mid-Conference Excursion & Scientific Sessions

• 30 January 2027 (Sat): Scientific Sessions, Poster Session & Workshops

• 31 January 2027 (Sun): Scientific Sessions & Departure

Further details on registration fees, visa requirements, accommodation, and post-conference excursions will be updated regularly on the official conference website.

We warmly welcome you to join us in Seosan for an exciting scientific exchange and field experience!

Best regards,

GSG 2027 Organizing Committee

Email: gsg2027kr@gmail.com

Website: www.gsg2027.kr

Please find more information at: https://www.gsg2027.kr/