Muju County to Host 'Training Marathon' Organized by National Marathon Association

Around Soinaru Park in Muju-eup on July 5

Muju County in North Jeolla Province announced on July 3 that the "Nature Special City Muju National Marathon Association Free Invitational Training Marathon" will be held on July 5 in the area around Soinaru Park in Muju-eup.

Exterior view of Muju County Office. Provided by Muju County.

According to the county, this event is organized and hosted by the National Marathon Association using its own budget, with support from Muju County and the Muju County Sports Council. Approximately 600 athletes and officials are expected to participate, training in three sections of 4 km, 8 km, and 12 km. Participants will start simultaneously at 8:30 a.m. at the entrance of Soinaru Park and run a round-trip course to the entrance of the Geumgang Forest Trail.

An official from the National Marathon Association stated, "The course, harmonized with beautiful nature, is perfect for hosting a marathon event," and added, "Above all, the positive feedback from participants in the 'Muju Firefly National Marathon' held last May led us to organize this training as well."

The county announced that on July 5, when the event takes place, traffic including roadside parking and both vehicle and pedestrian access will be controlled from 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on the section from Soinaru Park to the entrance of the Geumgang Forest Trail.

In preparation for the heat, the main building of Soinaru Park will be provided as a cooling shelter, and three water supply stations will be operated. The county also plans to provide washing water using water trucks.

Park Youngseok, head of the Facilities and Sports Operations Division, said, "As Muju has gained a reputation as a marathon venue, I hope this training event, utilizing the Namdaecheon and Geumgang riverside courses, will further highlight Muju and serve as a catalyst for future events. We will do our best to make this a meaningful event that promotes our region nationwide," he added.

Meanwhile, the "2025 Muju Firefly Half Marathon" held on May 25 attracted about 4,000 athletes and made a significant contribution to revitalizing the local economy. Comments on the YouTube live broadcast praised the course quality, thorough traffic control and safety management, strong community support, and the availability of amenities such as restrooms, drawing considerable attention to the event.