Over 5,000 Participants Gather for 'DMZ Peace Walk and Marathon'

DMZ Peace Marathon held by Gyeonggi Tourism Organization on the 6th

The Gyeonggi Tourism Organization attracted over 5,000 participants to the '2024 DMZ Peace Walking Event' and the '2024 DMZ Peace Marathon' held over two days, May 5-6, at Imjingak Pyeonghwa Nuri.

On May 5, the 'DMZ Peace Walking' event saw a total of 1,703 participants, including ambassadors from nine countries stationed in Korea, representatives from the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission (NNSC) from Switzerland and Sweden, and provincial council members. Participants walked along the ecological trail by the Imjin River within the Civilian Control Zone, directly experiencing the ecological value and importance of peace in the DMZ area.

On May 6, the '2024 DMZ Peace Marathon' attracted 2,568 participants, including marathon enthusiasts from across the country, military personnel, and local residents, who ran through the DMZ area to experience its ecological, peace, and historical significance.

The Gyeonggi Tourism Organization prioritized participant safety by installing safety fences and deploying control personnel at key sections.

Jo Won-yong, President of the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization, stated, "This event is distinguished from others by allowing participants to walk and run through areas usually difficult to access, such as the Unification Bridge and ecological trails within the Civilian Control Zone. We will continue to hold various events and promotions to raise awareness of the DMZ's value as a unique tourism resource both domestically and internationally, aiming to develop it into a world-class ecological and peace tourism destination."

Meanwhile, the 'DMZ OPEN Festival' will run until November 16, featuring a variety of programs including performances, exhibitions, academic events, and sports activities centered around the DMZ.