The Nation’s Longest-Running Private Sports Event
Commemorating the Meaning of Liberation with Over 1,000 Residents from Eight Neighborhoods
Goyang Special City in Gyeonggi Province (Mayor Lee Donghwan) held the "80th 8.15 Liberation Day Commemorative Local Sports Competition" at the Chungjang Neighborhood Park soccer field on the 15th.
Lee Donghwan, mayor of Goyang Special City, and participants are taking a commemorative photo after holding the "80th 8.15 Liberation Day Commemorative Local Sports Competition" at Chungjang Neighborhood Park soccer field on the 15th. Provided by Goyang Special City
The Local Sports Competition, which began the year after the 8·15 Liberation in 1945, marks its 80th anniversary this year. It is the nation’s longest-running private sports event and a local festival with a rich history and tradition.
This year’s competition was organized to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Liberation Day, honoring the noble sacrifices and spirit of independence of the national patriots. The event was originally planned to include a variety of activities bridging generations-such as foot volleyball, dodgeball, relay races, and a recreational sports day-to promote residents’ health and unity. However, the event was scaled down in consideration of the damage caused by heavy rain two days prior.
As in previous years, more than 1,000 residents from the eight neighborhoods of the local area (Neunggok-dong, Haengsin 1·2·3-dong·4-dong, Haengju-dong, Hwajeong 1·2-dong) participated, fostering harmony among community members.
On this day, certificates of commendation were awarded to one member of the Local Sports Association who has worked to ensure the annual hosting of the competition and to one representative from each of the eight neighborhoods. In addition, as part of the 80th anniversary event, the Local Sports Association presented eye and health checkup vouchers to three residents-known as "Gwangbokdungi" (born on August 15, 1945)-from the eight neighborhoods, reaffirming the significance of Liberation.
Mayor Lee Donghwan stated, "It is heartbreaking that so many citizens have suffered damage from the recent record-breaking heavy rain. We will mobilize all available resources for recovery efforts and to ensure the safety of our citizens, so that those affected can return to their daily lives as soon as possible."
He added, "We will continue to actively support the Local Sports Competition, which preserves traditional culture and promotes harmony and friendship among residents, so that its history and tradition may be carried on."
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