Gumi's Future: Competing with Asia

Strategic City Branding Through International Events
A Starting Point for Fostering Next-Generation Global Talent

Gumi City in North Gyeongsang Province is emerging as a central city in Asia through international events.

In particular, over 300 children supporters voluntarily participated, passionately cheering for the teams from each country, greatly enhancing the atmosphere of the event.

The "20th Asian Athletics Championships," held last May at Gumi Citizens' Stadium, went beyond being a simple sporting event and served as a stage to showcase Gumi's urban capabilities and international competitiveness.

This event brought together more than 2,000 athletes and officials from 43 countries, establishing itself as the continent’s premier athletics festival in both name and reality.

In particular, over 300 children supporters voluntarily participated, passionately cheering for the teams from each country and greatly enhancing the atmosphere of the event. These children went beyond simply spectating; they actively took part in event operations and experiential programs, establishing themselves as key participants in the international event.

At the experience booths set up near the stadium, a variety of programs were offered, including sports science experiences, VR athletics simulations, traditional games, and global cultural exchange exhibitions. These activities provided children with a hands-on opportunity to experience the "world" with all five senses.

At the Park Chung-hee Gymnasium, an art exhibition featuring works by youth from sister and friendship cities was held.

Youth from eight countries, including Taiwan, Vietnam, Mongolia, and Indonesia, presented artworks themed around the cityscape of Gumi and scenes from the championships. These works went beyond simple depictions of scenery, delivering a message of "Asian solidarity as seen through Gumi," which captured the attention of visitors.

International exchange through culture and the arts served as another pillar of sports diplomacy, once again demonstrating Gumi’s potential to grow as a global cultural city.

Through this event, Gumi City presented a global event model that combines three pillars: "sports + culture + citizen participation." Most notably, it is significant that children and youth, who represent the future generation, stepped forward not just as spectators but as active participants.

In collaboration with the Gumi Office of Education, the event was also integrated with local schools’ field trip programs, creating educational synergy. This closely aligns with Gumi City’s strategy to foster global talent.

This event marked a turning point for Gumi to grow as a central city in Asia and served as a clear opportunity to reinforce its international city brand. For the next generation, it became a living educational site where they could experience "Gumi reaching out to the world," and for citizens, it was a valuable moment to reaffirm the city’s future.

Going forward, Gumi City plans to continue attracting international events and strengthening global networks to become a strategic city that both competes with and leads Asia. Although the international event has concluded, Gumi’s challenge on the world stage is just beginning.