Suncheon City Launches All-Out Effort to Host 2035 Summer Universiade

Confirmed to Be Hosted During President Lee Jaemyung's Term
Strategic Shift to 'Early Hosting in 2035'
TF Team of 11 Members, Including Working-Level Staff and Experts

No Kwangyu, mayor of Suncheon, is presiding over the task force meeting on the strategy for hosting the World Universiade Games in the mayor's office on the 24th. Provided by Suncheon City

Suncheon City in South Jeolla Province, led by Mayor Noh Gwan-gyu, has launched a full-scale effort to host the 2035 Summer Universiade. In June, the city formed a working-level task force (TF) and developed a comprehensive strategy, including the establishment of a roadmap for a successful bid.

According to the city on the 25th, the TF team, headed by the Director of the Culture and Tourism Bureau, consists of 11 members, including city officials, representatives from the sports council, and external experts. The team is exploring various strategies for a successful bid, such as formulating the bidding strategy, responding to government and international organizations, and cooperating with neighboring local governments.

Of particular note is the dramatic shift in the target year for hosting the event. Moving away from the previous goals of 2037 or 2039, the city has now shifted its strategy toward "early hosting in 2035" to secure the event during President Lee Jaemyung's term.

The main infrastructure project is the 'Namhaean Namjungwon Integrated Sports Park,' which is currently underway. This facility is scheduled to complete land compensation and basic design by 2026, with the first phase of construction to be finished by 2028.

The city is conducting preliminary consultations with the International University Sports Federation (FISU) and plans to expand the 'Universiade Bidding Promotion Committee' to include the city council, experts, and related organizations, thereby strengthening its competitiveness in the bidding process.

Mayor Noh Gwan-gyu stated, "By hosting the Summer Universiade, Suncheon City aims to become a 'hub of international sports' in the Namhaean Namjungwon region and serve as a catalyst for genuine harmony between the east and west. We will establish a flawless plan to secure the hosting rights."