National Marine Sports Festival Successfully Concludes at Sihwa Lake and Turtle Island

Over 2,500 Athletes Participate Over Four Days,
Festival Attracts 42,000 Spectators
Lim Byungtaek, Mayor of Siheung: "Sihwa Lake and Turtle Island Became a Hub of Marine Leisure"

The 17th National Marine Sports Festival, which was held for four days from August 30 at Sihwa Lake and Turtle Island in Siheung, Gyeonggi Province, came to a successful close with its closing ceremony on the 2nd.

Hosted by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and co-organized by Gyeonggi Province, Siheung City, and the Siheung Sports Council, the event featured participation from over 2,500 athletes and attracted more than 42,000 spectators.

At the closing ceremony of the 17th National Marine Sports Festival held on the 2nd at Turtle Island, Siheung Mayor Im Byung-taek (right) is waving the tournament flag to celebrate the successful hosting of the event. Provided by Siheung City

The festival included competitions in four official events-yachting, canoeing, triathlon, and underwater & finswimming-as well as three additional events: dragon boat, inflatable boat, and flyboard.

A variety of side events organized by the hosts also contributed to the festival's popularity. In the area around the scenic bridge in front of Turtle Island, marine leisure experience programs such as jet skiing, banana boat, fly fish, and marine adventure were offered.

On the lawn plaza, marine culture programs such as fashion tattoos, face painting, and mini triathlon games were held, along with environmental experience events like the Eco-Nori Festival and a carbon footprint quiz. Flea markets and a shopping expo around the festival area also drew large crowds.

At the closing ceremony, citizens and athletes celebrated the successful conclusion together, and the event culminated with a congratulatory performance by singer Kim Yuna.

Siheung Mayor Lim Byungtaek remarked, "This festival transformed Sihwa Lake and Turtle Island into a hub of marine leisure, thanks to the athletes' sweat and passion and the active participation of our citizens. I hope this event will serve as a foundation for the advancement of marine sports in Korea and for the nation's growth as a maritime powerhouse."

The 18th National Marine Sports Festival will be held next year in Geoje, South Gyeongsang Province.