Chungnam Office of Education Wins 109 Medals at National Youth Sports Festival

38 Gold, 24 Silver, and 47 Bronze Medals
5 New Korean Records and 10 New Tournament Records Set

The team that exceeded their medal-winning goals and set numerous new records at the National Youth Sports Festival, along with Kim Jicheol, Superintendent of Education of Chungnam (center). / Photo by Chungnam Office of Education

The Chungnam Office of Education announced on May 28 that the team achieved a record-breaking performance at the 54th National Youth Sports Festival, held across Gyeongsangnam-do, by exceeding their medal-winning goals and setting numerous new records.

The Chungnam team, consisting of 1,220 participants (801 athletes and 419 officials) across 36 events, won a total of 109 medals: 38 gold, 24 silver, and 47 bronze.

The team surpassed their initial goal of 29 gold medals by winning 38, and for the fourth consecutive year, they achieved more than 100 total medals (107 at the 51st festival, 101 at the 52nd, 125 at the 53rd, and 109 at the 54th).

Notably, the team set five new Korean records by division and ten new tournament records, demonstrating the strength of Chungnam sports.

In weightlifting, the team established four new Korean records by division and nine new tournament records. Four student athletes?Shin Chaemin (Janghang Middle School), Han Ijun (Janghang Middle School), Jeong Haedam (Seonghwan Middle School), and Lee Sojeong (Dangjin Middle School)?each won three gold medals.

In the javelin throw event in athletics, Park Hyerin from Hongseong Girls' Middle School broke the previous record by 2 meters, setting a new Korean record by division and was selected as the best athlete in the girls' middle school division.

In shooting, the traditionally strong team from Seosan Girls' Middle School saw Lee Sia set a new tournament record and win two titles (individual and team events) at the festival.

Superintendent Kim Jicheol stated, "This festival was more than just about results; it was the culmination of scientific training, the operation of sports teams with integrity and respect for human rights, and growth in connection with the local community?all values Chungnam sports pursues. We will continue to actively support student athletes so they can balance academics and sports and grow into future sports talents."