Imsil-gun Gains Spotlight as Ssireum Training Site... Local Economy Heats Up

[Imsil=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Park Nosik] Jeonbuk Imsil-gun is gaining attention as a training camp site for Ssireum, and the local economy is also heating up accordingly.

The county announced on the 12th that in the second week of this month, 127 players from 17 teams, including Chilbo Elementary School in Jeongeup, Jeonbuk, will conduct training camps, and in the last week, 66 players from 6 teams, including Munchang High School in Mungyeong, Gyeongbuk, will hold training camps.

The total number of training teams scheduled for the first and second rounds in January reaches 23 teams with 193 players, which is double the size of last year's summer training camp with 12 teams and about 96 players.

Inquiries have been pouring in from Ssireum teams from universities and elementary, middle, and high schools nationwide asking whether they can use the Imsil-gun Ssireum stadium as a training site, rapidly emerging as a suitable place for Ssireum training.

The Ssireum stadium within the Imsil-gun Sports Complex was completed in 2020, and nearby facilities such as a swimming pool and gym are equipped, providing conditions for athletes to focus on training, making the county stand out as a suitable site for Ssireum training camps.

As the number of training teams visiting the area increases, it is expected to greatly benefit local businesses such as accommodations and restaurants.

The county plans to pay special attention to administrative support to ensure that Ssireum athletes visiting Imsil do not experience inconvenience, and during the training period, it will organize an ‘Imsil-gun History and Culture’ program to provide first-time visitors with opportunities to learn about Imsil-gun.

County Governor Shim Min said, “We sincerely welcome all Ssireum teams visiting the county,” and added, “We will continue to focus on facility management and investment to contribute to revitalizing the local economy by attracting training camps.”

Imsil=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Park Nosik baekok@asiae.co.kr