In the Digital Age, Why Does Ulsan Hold 'Outdated' Events?... Analog Radio Communication Contest Held

The 1st Ulsan Mayor's Amateur Radio Communication Contest

Preparing for Digital Network Failures in Major Disasters

An unusual competition that 'summons' analog wireless communication in the digital era is taking place in Ulsan.

The '1st Ulsan Metropolitan Mayor's Cup Amateur Radio Communication Contest,' hosted by the Ulsan Fire Department, was held at 10 a.m. on the 9th at the Ulsan Exhibition and Convention Center.

This event is the first in the country to be co-hosted by the fire department and the Korea Amateur Radio League.

The competition was organized with the goal of overcoming disaster situations by utilizing analog wireless communication networks in case the existing digital wireless communication network is disrupted during large-scale disasters.

The competition format involves 26 teams of amateur radio operators simulating a disaster scenario. Within a limited time, they must arrive at designated locations and send and receive high-quality radio communications with the fire department to earn points.

The Ulsan Fire Department plans to award prizes to the top three teams: first place (Ulsan Metropolitan Mayor's Award), second place (Korea Amateur Radio League President's Award), and third place (Korea Amateur Radio League Ulsan Branch Chief's Award).

Kim Doo-gyeom, Mayor of Ulsan, stated, "Through this competition, we will take the lead in preparing for unpredictable natural disasters and communication network failures caused by enemy GPS jamming and communication attacks, and strengthen the amateur radio communication system to make Ulsan a safer city."

The Korea Amateur Radio League is operating a Morse code experience booth during the Ulsan 119 Safety Culture Festival (June 8-9), providing citizens with education on Morse code that can be used in disaster situations and offering opportunities to experience amateur radio communication equipment.