Sacheon City, Runner-up in the Under-12 Team Event at the 53rd National Youth Sports Festival

Gyeongsangnam-do Kendo Team Shines with Outstanding Performance
First-Ever Podium Finish in Under-12 Division

The Gyeongnam Sacheon City Kendo team, which played a key role in the Gyeongsangnam-do Kendo representative team, has drawn attention by achieving the remarkable result of becoming the "first-ever medalists in the under-12 division."

The Gyeongsangnam-do Kendo representative team participated in the 53rd National Youth Sports Festival, held throughout Jeollanam-do from May 25 to 28, and won the runner-up title in the under-12 team event.

Sacheon City, 12 and Under Team Event Runner-up Group Photo at the 53rd National Youth Sports Festival.

Among the six members of the Gyeongnam team, three?Lee Seungjae (Dongsung Elementary, 6th grade), Kim Minseung (Sacheon Elementary, 6th grade), and Kim Minjun (Sacheon Elementary, 6th grade)?are from Sacheon City, with Minseung and Minjun being twins. The other three athletes are Jang Seonwoo (Geoje Elementary, 6th grade), Yoo Eunjun (Jinju Eunhasu Elementary, 6th grade), and Hong Junwoo (Yangsan Jeungsan Elementary, 5th grade).

The Gyeongnam team easily defeated the Sejong Special Self-Governing City team in the round of 16, but barely secured a victory against the Incheon Metropolitan City team in the quarterfinals after a tough match, advancing to the semifinals.

In the semifinals against the Chungcheongnam-do team and the finals against the Jeollanam-do team, they engaged in fierce battles, ultimately finishing as runners-up. This marks the first-ever medal for the Gyeongsangnam-do Kendo team in the under-12 division?a historic achievement.

This record was made possible by systematic training and excellent teamwork among the athletes, thanks to eight weeks of intensive training and field practice since being selected as representatives at the end of March.

Um Hoyoung, head coach of the under-12 representative team, said, "I want to thank the athletes for showcasing their skills to the fullest. I also extend my gratitude to everyone who provided unwavering support and encouragement during our preparation for the competition."