National Folk Bullfighting Competition Held in Changwon After 5 Years

Over 5,000 Visitors Attend, Cheers Resound

At the special stadium in Magumsan Oncheon District, Buk-myeon, Changwon Special City, Gyeongnam, the "21st Changwon National Folk Ox Wrestling Competition" is being held successfully with about 5,000 spectators visiting daily, continuing until the 20th.

The competition attracted 135 of the nation's top bulls, drawing the attention of the audience. In the Daebaekdu class, "Daebbang," weighing 1,450 kg and making its first appearance in the tournament, proudly demonstrated the dignity of Changwon cattle and smoothly passed the preliminary round. Especially in the Sobekdu class, "Gangtu," who defeated the undefeated bull "Gapdu" with 38 consecutive wins at the previous Uiryeong competition, participated, raising expectations.

The 21st Changwon National Folk Ox Fighting Competition was held at the special stadium in Magumsan Hot Spring District, Buk-myeon, Changwon Special City, Gyeongnam.

The tournament, which offered a total prize of 58.2 million KRW across the Baekdu, Hangang, and Taebaek three classes, featured not only the retirement ceremony of "Gangnam Star," who boasts 13 consecutive wins in national competitions on the opening day, but also provided Changwon agricultural and livestock products as prizes through a lucky draw. In particular, prizes such as TVs, washing machines, and air purifiers were offered, increasing the participation and interest of the spectators.

The opening ceremony held on the 19th was attended by about 40 guests including National Assembly member Kim Young-seon, Changwon Special City Council Chairman Kim I-geun, provincial and city council members, heads of agricultural and livestock cooperatives, and other related dignitaries. A tasting event for Korean pork (Handon) and a milk tasting session were held, delighting the visitors' palates. Additionally, the Magumsan Oncheon foot bath experience center, temporarily operated during the competition period, saw continuous foot traffic from visitors over five days.

Hong Nam-pyo, Mayor of Changwon Special City, said in his opening remarks, "I sincerely thank the tourists who have come from all over the country to celebrate the 21st National Folk Ox Wrestling Competition." He added, "We are pleased to have attracted a new national industrial complex here in Buk-myeon and to have the opportunity to widely promote the traditional folk sport of ox wrestling. I hope everyone enjoys the events prepared over the five days to the fullest."