Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on Nov. 28 gives a speech in Busan's final presentation for its bid to host the 2030 World Expo at the general assembly of the International Bureau of Expositions at Palais des Congres in Issy-les-Moulineaux, France. (Yonhap News)

By Park Hye Ri

The nation has lost its bid to host the 2030 World Expo to Saudi Arabia.

Busan on Nov. 28 fell short of its goal after earning 29 votes at the International Bureau of Expositions (BIE)'s general assembly at Palais des Congres in Issy-les-Moulineaux, France.

The Korean port city won 29 or 17.5% of the 165 votes cast in the first round of voting for second place. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, gained 119 votes or 72.1%, well over the two-thirds of votes needed to secure the bid in the round, while Rome placed third with 17 or 10.3%.

In Busan's final presentation right before the voting, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chairman Chey Tae-won, and former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in speeches stressed Busan's appeal, Korea's plan to give the largest amount of aid in its history to a record number of developing economies, and occasions for cooperation through a Busan-hosted 2030 World Expo like business opportunities and the Busan Initiative.

"The private and public sectors united and did their best until the end with an unwavering heart, but didn't get the results they expected and yearned for," the prime minister said. "We express regret over our inability to deliver good news to the public and Busan residents."

"Despite difficult conditions, the people of Busan enthusiastically welcomed the visit by the BIE inspection team and strove as one," Busan Mayor Park Heong-joon said. "My heart is heavy over the end to the dream of Busan residents."

The Prime Minister's Office on Nov. 29 said the government will faithfully implement the international cooperation programs it pledged during its bidding process.

Busan Metropolitan City will also consider bidding for the 2035 World Expo. 

"Busan's efforts to build a better future for humanity will continue," Mayor Park said. "We can surely do it if we remember our sweat, tears, efforts and passion and challenge ourselves."

hrhr@korea.kr