Governor Kim Youngrok Congratulates Jeonbuk on Final Selection as Korea's Olympic Candidate

Proving That Local Regions Are Capable of Hosting Large-Scale International Events

Kim Youngrok Jeonnam Governor

Kim Youngrok, Governor of Jeollanam-do, congratulated the entire residents of Jeollanam-do on June 1st for the selection of Jeonju, Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province, as the domestic candidate city to host the 2036 Summer Olympics.

In a statement released that day, Governor Kim said, "The selection of Jeonju, Jeonbuk as the domestic candidate city with overwhelming support, surpassing other competing cities with favorable conditions such as Olympic hosting experience, infrastructure, and accessibility, is a valuable achievement made possible by the passion and efforts of Jeonbuk residents." He added, "It is a historic feat that proves local regions are fully capable of hosting large-scale international events like the Olympics."

He also said, "As a long-time neighbor who has shared a thousand years of Jeolla history and as a partner working together to overcome the crisis of local extinction, I am as delighted and moved as if it were my own accomplishment. If the Summer Olympics are held in Jeonju in 2036, Korea’s national prestige will be further elevated while balanced regional development is achieved."

Governor Kim emphasized, "In Jeollanam-do, we will also contribute to the Olympic excitement with events such as yachting in Yeosu, modern pentathlon in Suncheon, and surfing in Goheung," and added, "We will do our utmost to support Jeonbuk in being selected as the final host city of the Olympics."

If Jeonju succeeds in attracting the 2036 Summer Olympics, Korea will host the Summer Olympics for the first time in 48 years since the Seoul Olympics in 1988.