'Geomarathon' Held to Support Mudeungsan Area UNESCO Global Geopark Re-Certification

Held on October 11 at Kumho Hwasun Resort
Co-hosted by Gwangju City, South Jeolla Province, Damyang County, and Hwasun County
"Strengthening regional cooperation... Boosting tourism and the economy"

Geomarathon Race Course. Provided by Damyang County

Damyang County, South Jeolla Province (Governor Jeong Cheolwon), announced on September 30 that the 4th Mudeungsan Area Geomarathon, held to support the re-certification of the Mudeungsan Area UNESCO Global Geopark, will take place at 8 a.m. on October 11 at Kumho Hwasun Resort.

This event is co-hosted by Damyang County, Gwangju MBC, Gwangju City, South Jeolla Province, and Hwasun County. To commemorate the 45th anniversary of the 5·18 Democratization Movement, 1,450 runners from across the country will participate.

The race features several courses: 30km, half marathon, 10km, 5.18km, and a 2km walking course. The 30km course starts at Kumho Hwasun Resort, passes through Inam Samgeori in Gasamunhak-myeon and the turnaround point at Dagok Samgeori in Baekamyeon, Hwasun County, before returning to the starting point.

Geomarathon Site Layout. Provided by Damyang County

In particular, the 2km walking "Geo Trail Course," which explores the Seoyuri Dinosaur Fossil Site, will include explanations from a geo-interpreter for students and their parents.

The event will be broadcast live for three hours on terrestrial TV by Gwangju MBC and streamed on YouTube, with commentary provided by commentator Yoon Yeochun and Geomarathon winner and ambassador Robert Hudson.

During the YouTube broadcast, local foods such as Damyang Hangwa, Geofood, Hwasun Oranda snacks, Gwangju rice balls, and eco-friendly rice from Jeonnam Nonghyup will be introduced. Prize money will be awarded in Damyang and Hwasun local gift certificates, which is expected to help stimulate local consumption and boost the regional economy.

Governor Jeong Cheolwon stated, "I hope this event will promote the value of the Mudeungsan Area UNESCO Global Geopark and strengthen cooperation among regions," adding, "I wish all participants a safe and enjoyable race, creating lasting memories."