More than 600 officials, civic activists and environment industry representatives held a ceremony to mark World Water Day at a Han River park in Seoul on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Goh Kun, who is acting as the interim head of state, took part in the ceremony.

In a speech at the event, he stressed the importance of water and the environment.

During the ceremony, Seoul National University Professor Park Seung-woo and 19 others were given awards for their contributions to effective water management.

A variety of sideline events such as a water exhibition and a concert were also staged to mark this year’s World Water Day, which was observed under the theme, ``Water and Disaster.’’

The United Nations designated March 22 as World Water Day starting in 1992 to focus global attention on conserving and protecting the earth’s water resources and drinking water supply.