'Tradition and Passion' Yeongam Cheonhajangsa Ssireum Grand Festival Successfully Concluded

Over 1,000 Athletes Participate Nationwide... Intense 7-Day Competition
Yeongam Gun Folk Ssireum Team's Kim Minjae Crowned Cheonhajangsa
Governor Woosunhee, "Striving to Popularize Ssireum"

The "2024 Cheonhajangsa Ssireum Festival" held in Yeongam-gun, Jeollanam-do, concluded successfully. This event received great acclaim as a festival that reexamined the traditional value of K-Ssireum and engaged the public.

According to the county on the 4th, the tournament, held for seven days from the 25th of last month to the 1st, featured intense competition among about 1,000 domestic athletes from across the country and over 100 foreign athletes from 10 countries at the Yeongam Indoor Gymnasium.

At the Cheonhajangsa Ssireum Grand Festival held for seven days at Yeongam Indoor Gymnasium, Kim Min-jae of the Yeongam-gun Folk Ssireum Team is taking a commemorative photo with the team after being crowned Cheonhajangsa. Provided by Yeongam-gun

Approximately 25,000 spectators gathered on-site to cheer, creating a deeply moving and exciting atmosphere at the Ssireum festival. The blend of tradition and modernity was especially impressive. While continuing the tradition of K-Ssireum, modern elements were added to attract the interest of the younger generation, and the Ssireum techniques and strategies representing each country delighted the audience.

With Kim Minjae of the Yeongam-gun Folk Ssireum Team claiming the Cheonhajangsa title, the tournament was evaluated as contributing to the expansion of Ssireum’s base, revitalization of the local economy, and activation of commercial districts.

Mayor Woo Seunghee said, “The successful completion of this festival was thanks to the athletes, officials, and the passionate support of the county residents,” adding, “We will continue to make sustained efforts for the development and popularization of Ssireum.”