Around Gyeokpo Port in Buan: Inshore and Offshore Courses
Over 300 Athletes from 13 Countries, Including Thailand and the Philippines, to Participate
The Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province will host the 10th Saemangeum Cup International Yacht Race from June 5 to 8, spanning four days in the area around Gyeokpo Port in Buan-gun.
According to the province on May 29, the Saemangeum Cup International Yacht Race, now in its 10th year, is a global marine sports event representing Jeonbuk. More than 300 athletes from 13 countries, including Korea, Japan, China, Russia, Taiwan, Thailand, and the Philippines, are expected to compete in an exhilarating race on the West Sea.
The race will be divided into 'Inshore' and 'Offshore' courses, with thrilling yacht competitions starting at Gyeokpo Port and circling around Wido Island and the Gogunsan Archipelago.
In particular, spectators can look forward to watching the races directly from the sea by boarding spectator boats, in addition to viewing from the seating area on the south breakwater of Gyeokpo Port.
The province will prioritize the safety of both participants and spectators by establishing a cooperative system with relevant agencies such as the Coast Guard, fire department, and police. Thorough safety management measures will be implemented, including the placement of rescue equipment, mandatory life jacket use, and deployment of rescue boats at sea.
Additionally, a variety of side events will be held, such as a photo contest and marine leisure sports experience programs, to create a marine cultural festival that brings together both local residents and tourists.
The province also plans to accelerate the development of marine leisure infrastructure in the Saemangeum area through this event. In connection with the ongoing Gung Hang Marina Port Development Project, Jeonbuk aims to become the center of marine leisure tourism in Korea.
Kim Mijeong, Director of the Saemangeum Marine and Fisheries Bureau of the province, stated, "We will create a marine festival enjoyed by the world, combining Buan's pristine marine environment with a global yacht competition," and added, "We will continue to enhance Jeonbuk's status as a leader in marine tourism through international events."
Meanwhile, on the first day of the Saemangeum Cup International Yacht Race, June 5, the yacht mooring area at Gyeokpo Port will be open for the start of the first day's races. The opening ceremony will take place on a special stage at Gyeokpo Port at 6 p.m. on June 6, and the awards ceremony and closing ceremony will be held on June 8.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.


