"Cheonil Salt National College Student Baduk Tournament" Held in Sinan

Fan Signing Event with Baduk Master Lee Sedol, Native of Bigeumdo

Match scene from the 2023 Sinan Cheonil Salt National College Student Baduk Tournament. Provided by Sinan County

Sinan County in South Jeolla Province, known as the home of Baduk, is bringing together top college Baduk talents from across the country.

On July 17, the county announced that it will hold the "12th Sinan Cheonil Salt National College Student Baduk Tournament" at the Sinan National Sports Center in Amtae-myeon for two days until July 18. The tournament is divided into four categories: the Championship Division, Dan Holder Division, Advanced Division, and a three-person team event. A total of 96 college student players from 32 universities nationwide will compete for the title.

In particular, the Championship Division offers a winner's prize of 3 million won, raising expectations for fierce competition among semi-professional level players. During the tournament, there will also be a fan signing event with Lee Sedol, the world-renowned Baduk star and native of Bigeumdo, which is drawing excitement from Baduk fans.

Kim Daein, acting mayor of Sinan County, stated, "Sinan County is the hometown of the world-class Baduk star Lee Sedol, and we have been continuously hosting various Baduk tournaments such as the Guksusanmaek International Baduk Tournament, the World Baduk Championship, and the Lee Sedol Cup National Baduk Tournament." He added, "We are also making steady efforts to expand the base of Baduk, including operating Baduk classes to nurture young talents."

Meanwhile, Sinan is a specialty region that accounts for 70% of the nation's Cheonil Salt production. This tournament is sponsored by Sinan County and South Jeolla Province and organized by Jeonnam Maeil.